kawahara krause suggests staggering office complex in berlin

its alternating and multicolored façade create a unique silhouette and dynamic visuals.

tatsuya kawahara edited by lynn chaya April 14, 2017 2 min

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom

award-winning architecture firm kawahara krause unveils their latest proposal for a spacious office complex overlooking the picturesque area of heidestrasse in berlin, germany. their aim is to counter the monotony of long repetitive buildings by creating staggering volumes, affecting both the height and depth of the structures. as a result of the differentiating segments of the office complex, the project creates a sense of urban identity.

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom
all visuals © kawahara krause architects

due to the alternating depth and height of kawahara krause’ office complex, the vertical staggering generates a roofscape that is accessible through various floors. typically, the higher the building, the more the modules protrude outward — causing an elaborate projection of light and shadows that mirrors the semblance of shifting elements.

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom
the heidestrasse office complex is proposed in berlin
© kawahara krause architects

the ensemble of volumes is bound by a single modular construction made of precast concrete and an angular façade. despite the seeming repetition of the complex, the distinct modularity preserves the impression of diversity. in addition to its notable staggering feature, the entire facade system is further refined by the multi-colored concept.

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom
the ensemble of volumes is bound by an angular façade
© kawahara krause architects

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom
despite seeming repetitions the buildings are imagined with distinct modularity
© kawahara krause architects

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom
façade detail
© kawahara krause architects

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom
east and west elevations
© kawahara krause architects

kawahara kraus heidestrasse office complex designboom
elevation detail
© kawahara krause architects

project info:

location: berlin, germany
project status: competition
main use: office
total floor area: 114.000 m
structural system: concrete
structural engineer: werner sobek
green tech: WS green technologies
cost control: prof. ulrich vetter

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.