Ester Bruzkus' Own Converted Apartment in Berlin, Germany

Berlin-based architect Ester Bruzkus completed the renovation of her own apartment, a loft-like space on the top floor of the Estradenhaus building in the Prenzlauerberg district, one of the first apartment blocks built after the fall of the Berlin wall. Bruzkus initially lived on the second floor of the building, and jumped at the chance to move on up when this top floor apartment became available, with its two balconies, an extra terrace, and a rooftop view over Berlin.

Previously the 80sqm space was used as a singular, flexible room, with platforms at varying heights punctuating the space. Bruzkus maintained and extended the platforms to delineate various functions throughout. Colours, height, and volumes define the space, rather than close it off.

There are no doors in the apartment, except for the bathroom. A custom made light oak structure separates dining and bedroom, with a nested kitchen on one side and built-in wardrobe on the other. The bedroom sits at a higher elevation to the rest of the space, which despite its lack of a door creates a more intimate feel.

The bathroom is a total hidden gem, painted pale blue and featuring a sculptural grey terrazzo bathtub and a Carrara marble sink block. “Great Wave” wallpaper by Cole & Sons used above the basin is an unexpected, playful touch.

An interplay of restraint and opulence is evident throughout the apartment. Restraint is achieved through efficient hidden storage, colour-blocked bare facades, and a distinct lack of decorative objects. Opulence is delivered through custom pieces, rich textiles, and abundant use of marble and terrazzo. The playful, warm colour palette includes rose-coloured kitchen cabinetry, muted jade, and brass fixtures, all of which play off the cool concrete ceiling and floors. Brighter tones of yellow and blue are hidden on the interior panels of built-in storage units.

Décor came via Studio CouCou, Bruzkus’ own curated showroom and online store, featuring pieces she sourced or made for her design projects and particularly loved. The luxurious sofa, upholstered in three shades of ruby-pinks, dominates the living area. Full-height windows across both the east and west façade ensure abundant natural light, but statement wall-mounted lights from PSLab are there to do the job on dim days.

Narrow raised platforms border full-height glass doors that open onto an outdoor deck. Bruzkus created a Moroccan moment in her private rooftop garden, including a fringed hammock suspended over another raised platform, and cushions aplenty. There’s even a small apple tree. An inner-city oasis, if ever we did see one.