SCHLOSSGUT HARTENECK

LUDWIGSBURG, GERMANY | 2003

The modification of a 17th century stately castle posed a special challenge since the tenant’s requirements turned out to be completely contradictory to the structure of the building. The contrast of modern technology and contemporary office structure on the one hand and the historical listed building volume on the other hand was exactly what provided the attraction of this project. The building is separated in two sections of different age (15^th and 17^th century), which can be told easily from the wall thicknesses. The older part provided special uses such as the hall of knights, a huge assembly hall, or the reception, whereas the staff office space is located within two levels of the younger building sequence. All new built-in components (internal walls, ceilings, etc) were moved inwards by 20 cm for a definite clearness of display between old and new. Special furniture such as reception counter or tea break desk, which integrates in the rooms appear as sculptural objects at first, but are indeed equipped with all functional necessities. The office furnishing was chosen according to the existing CI standards of the company.