House for a Goldsmith by Christoph Wagner Architekten: A Symbiosis of Tradition and Modern Craftsmanship

Revitalizing a Historic Farmhouse in Lanke, Germany

Nestled in the scenic Mark Brandenburg region, just 30 minutes north of Berlin, a former farmhouse has been masterfully transformed into a unique residential and workspace by Christoph Wagner Architekten, led by Christoph Wagner and Wenke Schladitz. The 380 m² property, completed in 2023, reflects a meticulous approach to architectural preservation and adaptive reuse, maintaining the essence of its rural past while accommodating contemporary living requirements.

Architectural Approach: Preserving History with Sensitivity

The client, a goldsmith, sought to repurpose the farmhouse into a dual-purpose home and workshop. Originally used for agricultural purposes until the 1950s, the building was later divided into four separate flats. One of the tenants remained, prompting the architects to retain this section unaltered. The remaining areas were carefully redesigned to integrate living and working spaces, all while embracing the building’s layered history.

Key to the project was the client’s desire to preserve the authentic character of the structure. Rather than opting for a full-scale renovation, Christoph Wagner Architekten adopted a subtle approach. Structural imperfections such as cracks were only repaired when absolutely necessary. Large portions of the existing fabric were deliberately left intact, allowing the building’s narrative to remain visible.

Spatial Transformation: Balancing Old and New

The architectural intervention resulted in a 140 m² two-story flat that seamlessly blends historical elements with modern design. A notable feature is the windowless gable wall, now punctuated by an off-center round window. This striking addition, framed with a custom brass surround crafted by a local blacksmith, floods the interior with morning light while serving as both a functional and aesthetic focal point.

The brass window plate not only deflects water away from the timber facade but also enhances light reflection into the interior. Demonstrating masterful craftsmanship, the round window is set directly into the cross-laminated timber (CLT) wall without a separate frame, highlighting the architects' commitment to precision and material innovation.

Structural Interventions: Embracing Modern Functionality

One of the most significant structural modifications was the insertion of a large terrace window on the south façade. This alteration, coupled with a ceiling opening to accommodate a staircase, introduced a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Supporting the double-shell masonry wall, an externally positioned balcony projection allowed the team to forgo intrusive internal supports.

The staircase itself is a sculptural element, symbolizing the transition between the public and private realms. A side stringer on the upper flight extends vertically to form a privacy screen, visually demarcating the upper floor’s intimate spaces. Salvaged demolition bricks were repurposed for non-load-bearing interior walls, emphasizing sustainability and resourcefulness.

Sustainable Construction: An Eco-Conscious Foundation

Sustainability lies at the heart of this project. The floor structure comprises glass gravel and locally sourced hemp clay fill, eliminating the need for waterproof membranes. Additionally, reclaimed parquet flooring from other sites was reinstalled, further reducing material waste.

A Philosophy of Ongoing Adaptation

Christoph Wagner Architekten challenges the common desire to modernize old homes into pristine new builds. Their philosophy asserts that understanding a building’s history is essential to guiding thoughtful renovations. The House for a Goldsmith exemplifies this ethos—it remains an evolving work-in-progress, adapting over time alongside its occupants.

This project stands as a testament to the harmony between tradition and innovation, emphasizing that architecture is not merely a static product but an ongoing dialogue between space and inhabitant.

All Photographs are works of Eric Tschernow