PLAYGROUND

Respecting History

LXSY ARCHITEKTEN transformed a listed red-brick post office building into a contemporary co-working and event space whilst respecting the history of the site. Historical elements were integrated into the new design wherever possible. The original colour scheme was also preserved, being centred around traditional pigeon blue and the intense hues of rust and red. Alongside carefully selected materials, these colours create a raw and minimalist industrial character. To add contrast and interest the otherwise hard surfaces are complemented by elements made of birch wood, in particular the telephone boxes, together with airy linen curtains. Eye-catching red steel structures serve as curtain rails whilst also providing a reference to the world of sports, resembling markings on a playing field, albeit in an abstracted and sculptural way.

Hexagonal Space

The former hexagonal post office hall was transformed into a flexible event space with a stage and surrounding ‘break-out areas’ for workshops. Entry is via the foyer. Generally accessible spaces in this area include a café, meeting rooms, co-working areas and a lounge area. The centrepiece here is a large counter with striking red zigzag tiles. Adjacent to the foyer are the corporate studios, which are temporarily rented to external companies. In addition to the five offices, there is also a small meeting room, a workshop and seminar room, a large conference room and a kitchenette, whilst the access areas in front of the studios contain open niches and cabins to serve as telephone boxes, meeting alcoves, storage space and open structures.