A Successful Symbiosis of Historical Heritage and Modern New Construction
On the grounds of the Ludwig Hoffmann Quartier in Berlin-Buch, eqviva and econcept have constructed five multifamily houses. The historic hospital grounds are being transformed into a modern urban quarter while preserving the historic substance. The new buildings comply with the guidelines of the monument protection authority and blend harmoniously into the existing environment. Three buildings have reduced storey heights to maintain the view of the garden ensemble. Close coordination with the monument protection authority enabled a swift planning period of just one year. "After discussing various design approaches, the key to our smooth and rapid planning progress was our close and prompt coordination with the monument protection authority. We are proud to have achieved a planning period of only one year, which is a significant advantage given the high demand for housing," says Tilo Krause, Managing Director of eqviva.
Energy Efficiency: scoring with autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC)
The project developers chose a monolithic construction method with Ytong from the outset to ensure environmental compatibility and cost efficiency. Autoclaved aerated concrete meets high standards for sound insulation, fire protection, thermal insulation, and structural integrity. Additional insulation layers are unnecessary as insulating, mineral plaster is used instead. Thus, MIOS meets the KfW Standard 55 EE for energy efficiency. "The building structure provides the thermal insulation - the shell is the insulation itself," summarizes Phil Marbé of econcept.
Building for the future: simple, sensible, and cooperative
The five MIOS buildings demonstrate that multi-storey residential construction can be realized in an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, time-saving, and cost-effective manner while also meeting monument protection requirements. The project used a mix of autoclaved aerated concrete for the exterior walls, reinforced concrete ceilings, and Silka Calcium-Silicate-Units for the interior walls to optimize living space and enable efficient construction. Large-format building elements and customized system solutions accelerate the construction process and reduce costs. The partnership with Xella enabled the completion of MIOS in just two years. Despite a hot summer in 2022 and global supply chain issues, close and cooperative collaboration ensured the shell's completion on schedule in December 2022.
Xella's comprehensive service proved extremely helpful: from digital planning to project optimization and application training by a master demonstrator on-site, projects are thoroughly and individually supported. All participants benefited from innovative approaches through mutual learning and exchange of opportunities. This collaboration ensures compliance with legal standards and optimal use of funding, forming the basis for sustainable, future-oriented construction projects.
MIOS – Contemporary living surrounded by urban nature
Now, the 63 apartments are ready for occupancy. Ranging from 45 to 159 square meters, the 2- to 5-room apartments feature balconies or loggias that allow plenty of daylight into the rooms. The quarter offers the benefits of peaceful living in a green environment within a vibrant setting, integrating educational, commercial, and service facilities such as an in-house parcel station. Combined with sustainable heating and hot water supply with a high biogas content, which already meets future climate goals, MIOS sets standards for environmentally conscious and future-oriented living.