A mix of modernity and tradition in Berlin

I

n a magnificent and historical Berlin villa, traditional bourgeois flair meets the classicism of modern design. At the entrance we are already hit by a breath of fresh air thanks to its latest restyling. Respectful of the old-world elegance of its large spaces, generously high ceilings and meticulous details (from the historical stucco work to the wood moldings), the restoration mainly focuses on the lighting and the harmony of the new colors that characterize the centuries-old spaces in combination with modern furniture. 

The magnificent entrance with the colored glass lamp by Bocci, the small Cherner armchair designed in 1958 by the American architect Norman Cherner and the long, light, vintage-styled carpet. To the right, the dining area that opens onto the villa’s garden.

From a sunny spot with a yellow sofa and aquamarine wall, a view opens up onto the coffee corner with a relaxing dark green wall.

The new colors and the careful lighting design have transformed the perception of the interiors. For each room a particular atmosphere has been created with soft-tinted walls that both play off of one another and uniquely define the personality of each space: from the light gray of the entrance, to the aquamarine in the dining area, the forest green around the coffee corner table and the midnight blue of the bedroom. The furniture works with the walls by completing the harmonious whole with colors that in some cases blend in and at other times act as counterpoints with decidedly bright tonalities, like the yellow of the sofa or the red of the kitchen island.

On one side of the living room, the hanging fireplace next to the sofa; on the other, the wall fitted with a TV. Light tones and decisive counterpoints.

The bright red island separates the kitchen from the rest of the open living room.

The skillful matching of colors coincides with the careful choices of designer furniture. Iconic pieces with strong character, like the splendid fifties’ armchairs by Norman Cherner (American architect and designer), or rare and unique works chosen with great care create surprises in every space. Attention has been paid to the tiniest of the details in close collaboration with the homeowners by interior designer Christina Stöppel of the Berlin design store Dopo_domani. 

To the left, the inclined mirrors that change the perspective of the stairs going up to the first floor. To the right, the study where the books on the shelves seem to be reflected onto the spotted carpet.

The bedroom on the first floor. The walls’ cool tones act as a counterpoint to the warmth of the wooden floor.

Two corners of the large bedroom. To the right, the sitting area created beneath the large bow window overlooking the garden.

Light-colored walls and washbasins with a transparent glass countertop bring lightness to the bathroom. In contrast, a wooden floor as in the rest of the villa.

A bathroom with view and freestanding tub. A room where you can really take in the view over garden.

A dialogue between tradition and modernity is a fascinating and complex design challenge. This Berlin villa is a magnificent example of how it is possible to give contemporary personality to antique architecture with respect, delicacy, and even healthy dose courage, while keeping the appeal of its history and years alive.

Design project

New interiors for a city villa  
Location: Berlin, Germany

Interior design:
Interior Architect Christina Stöppel for Dopo_domani

Furniture supplied by:
>> Store Channel
dopo_domani, Berlino, Germania

Photos:
Courtesy Dopo_domani
Credits Jordana Schramm