UNIT KMA | The Living Core
An intervention on modernist heritage
Berlin, Germany | KMA II. Bauabschnitt
Intervention: Interior Design & Spatial Styling
Area: 25 m²
Year: 2025
Situated within the historic second phase of Berlin’s Karl-Marx-Allee, this project involves the interior transformation of a post-war worker’s apartment. The design respects its modernist heritage while introducing a contemporary sense of sanctuary
The starting point was a cold, undefined "white box" that lacked a clear purpose and scale. A mismatched, ill-proportioned layout left the room feeling fractured and impersonal. The first technical objective was to solve the inherent "frialdad" through strategic spatial flow and a new material strategy
The Challenge |
We approached the transformation through environmental psychology, introducing a bold terracotta feature wall to anchor the space and cure the lack of warmth. We corrected the spatial scale by replacing fragmented furniture with a large, L-shaped sectional sofa that defines the living zone. Every detail, from the oak coffee table to the symmetrical art, was a conscious choice aimed at enhancing the residents' daily rituals.
A critical part of the intervention was the implementation of a layered lighting strategy. We combined ambient lighting with functional task lights and soft accent points, enabling the atmosphere to transform throughout the day while adapting to different moods and activities
The Technical Soul |
The Human Perspective | Slow Living & Balance
The design was tailored to the residents' daily rhythm. The primary need was to create a sanctuary for "slow living"—a space that facilitates a soft transition from the city’s pace to a private, calm environment. We focused on visual harmony and material warmth to ensure the room provides a sense of quietude, allowing for both shared presence and individual retreat without visual noise.
Key Interventions
Color Strategy: Use of terracotta to create an emotional anchor and visual depth.
Spatial Scaling: Correcting the room's proportions with correctly scaled furniture.
Layered Lighting Design: A three-tier lighting scheme (ambient, task, and accent) for maximum atmospheric flexibility.
Biophilic Integration: Enhancing air quality and mood through strategic plant placement.
Adaptive Materiality: Seasonal textile selection (Spring/Summer rugs) for year-round comfort.
Tactile Curation: Honest materials (oak, linen, fibers) defined in our Material Workshop.