Antivilla, designed by Brandlhuber+Emde, Burlon, is a remarkable example of adaptive reuse and innovative architectural design. Located by the Krampnitzsee in Potsdam, Germany, this project transformed a former German Democratic Republic lingerie factory into a combined living and studio space. The renovation, completed between 2010 and 2015, challenges traditional building norms and explores the relationship between architecture and the environment.
One of the most striking features of Antivilla is its facade, which is covered in shotcrete instead of traditional insulation. This choice not only reduced costs but also added a unique aesthetic element to the building. The original gabled roof, made of asbestos plates, was replaced with a flat concrete slab, allowing for large openings in the walls. These openings, some up to five meters wide, were created by friends of the architects who hammered away the walls, providing expansive views of the nearby lake.
Inside, the building’s design emphasizes flexibility and adaptability. All non-bearing walls were removed to create an open, fluid space. A functional core, including a bathroom, kitchen, and sauna, was installed in the center of both floors. This core, along with transparent PVC curtains, allows the space to be zoned according to climate needs. In winter, the heated area is reduced to about 60 square meters, while in summer, the curtains are retracted to create a larger living area.
Antivilla is not just a physical transformation but also a conceptual one. It revisits and innovates upon Reyner Banham’s 1969 concept of the “Architecture of the Well-Tempered Environment,” blending constructional and energetic aspects into a cohesive whole. This project stands as a bold reinterpretation of space and climate, offering a fresh perspective on sustainable and adaptive living.
