Wabi-sabi meets Wilhelminian style: The historic, listed townhouse in the sought-after district of Hamburg-Rothenbaum is a harmonious fusion of the history and style of the Wilhelminian era with the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi.
All of the existing historical elements, such as elaborate stucco decorations on the ceilings and bay windows, have been restored using traditional craftsmanship and supplemented with new elements such as a modern glass extension. Large windows and a glazed bay window provide an unobstructed view of the Japanese Zen garden - a green oasis of tranquillity consisting of pines, maples, conifers and reduced gravel and moss beds.
The Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi describes a beauty that lies in simplicity. Materials of natural origin such as Tundra Grey limestone flooring, the solid cut Grigio Carnico marble washbasins or the brushed oak wall cladding create a connection to the natural world and stand for a style that emphasizes quality and timelessness.
Functional areas such as the powder room, the sauna or technical and storage rooms disappear behind wooden slats made of brushed oak - individually patinated and oiled. A room divider with a tunnel fireplace, coated with a traditional Japanese spatula and wax technique, conceals the media and audio technology in the living area.
The result is an aesthetic of restraint, minimalism and a straightforward design language that continues throughout all six floors of the building.
