The Metropolitan Gardens

The withdrawal of the Allies after reunification greatly changed the American barracks area in Zehlendorf. Most of the listed buildings were converted into apartments, but the site of the demolished transmission mast at the rear remained vacant for a long time. Starting in 2012, we developed a new ensemble of six apartment buildings on the slightly elevated oval plateau on behalf of the owners, which was completed in 2023. The buildings surround an intensively green garden courtyard, under which is a shared underground car park that connects to all the buildings. Due to the new structure's orthogonal position to the existing buildings, the new buildings are perceived as part of the former barracks area, but at the same time have an autonomous character and architectural identity. The contur painting on the facades reinforces the basic architectural forms of the buildings and create a connection to the colour accents around the windows of the listed existing buildings.The three to four-storey houses are all accessed via the semi-public garden courtyard, creating a clear front and back. A south-facing open staircase connects the garden space with the main axis of the neighbouring building configuration. All 55 apartments, which range in size from 60 to 130 m², have an outdoor seating area and generous connection to the outdor space.