Three point blocks positioned within the courtyard of a prefabricated housing estate have achieved optimal densification in the Friedrichsfelde district. Set within the open space of a U-shaped block structure, these buildings feature a square footprint with 20-meter edges. Across the eight-storey point blocks—arranged in a staggered configuration—119 apartments of varying sizes provide diverse housing options. Howoge, one of Berlin's leading housing associations, developed the project. By deliberately departing from the neighbourhood's dominant typology of elongated blocks and residential towers, the new buildings create a striking yet complementary presence that tempers the surrounding uniformity. The site itself, once a courtyard anchored by a low-rise kindergarten, is characterized by abundant green spaces. To the south, beyond Dolgenseestraße and screened by an additional ten-storey block, sits the neighbourhood's dog park. Just beyond lies the railway line leading to the nearby Rummelsburg S-Bahn station.

The three buildings share virtually identical structural systems. Two feature basement levels, while the third incorporates a senior day care facility on the ground floor—directly accessible from Dolgenseestraße—in place of a basement. In keeping with the surrounding prefabricated structures, the lower residential levels are positioned at mezzanine height. All three buildings are accessed from a central forecourt. The circulation strategy employs a five-unit arrangement organized around an internal core housing stairs and building services.

Total living space spans 7,333 m², accommodating apartments ranging from one to five rooms, a maisonette, and two shared-living units. Every apartment features a private outdoor space and—except for the one-room studios—benefits from dual-aspect natural light. Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout and the staggered building arrangement maximize sunlight penetration. Pressed-mesh balcony screens strike an ideal balance, offering visual privacy while maintaining brightness and transparency for residents.

Reinforced concrete construction forms the structural foundation. Prefabricated ceiling, wall, and façade elements enabled rapid construction between 2017 and 2018. Fiber cement panel façades echo the design vocabulary of the surrounding buildings, integrating the new structures seamlessly—both chromatically and conceptually—into the verdant courtyard setting. Affordable rents ensure accessibility for lower-income families seeking quality residential options.

www.winking-froh.de

Photography Credits:

Thomas Bruns
www.thomasbruns.com

(Published in CUBE Berlin 02|20)