I
n Munich, urban development is hard-and-fast: the old skyline must be protected from the same skyscrapers being built all over the world. One building is the only exception. After years of rough-and-tumble politics, the old power stationt, in the Montmartre neighbourhood of Munich, was regenerated into “Seven”. Instead of being pulled down, this building became a luxury block of flats, right in the centre of town.
Living in a 200 square metre penthouse, 50 metres high, with a panoramic view over one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, is a luxury only few can afford. Concierge service, a fitness centre and a Day-Spa: these are some of the perks. It’s not surprising that the owner of this gem treasures his privacy. However, he has agreed to show us around his beloved home.
The view from the glass facades is extraordinary, and the daily frenzy seems so far away from up here. The mood is in sharp contrast with the urban chaos; the interior design isolates from the city below. The owner wanted to create a space where calmness, elegance and simplicity dominate. Guests find themselves in another world as soon as they step out of the lift.
Sophisticated mood. In the dining room, furniture is matching in colour but in different materials. Here, Barcode, a table in stone and steel takes centre stage: this is a true luxury piece which weighs more than 400 kg and gives a formal minimalist feel to the room. Leather chairs add much needed warmth, and two pendant filigree lamps creating a perfect mix of different sensations. This will definately please any lucky guest.
This building has three glass facades and so, almost no cavity walls. To funish this space is not an easy task. Upon the owner’s request, the designers have hidden out of sight all the built-in storage cupboards (Interlübcke). This space maintains its purity and so it should be at these dizzy heights.
In the bedroom, there is an illusion of space. Graphics by the artist Cornelia Rapp, also part of the interior design team. Working beside the architect and the team from Designfunktion, Rapp was able to give to this room a surreal feel, transforming it into an ultra-modern and comfortable environment.
Both the Dimodis steel table and the Knoll chair follow the same luxurious minimalism of the rest of the house. Next to a screen, the iconic WG24 lamp, designed in 1924 by Wilhelm Wagenfeld, also simply known as Bauhaus, shares the space with a sculpture. And only a few finishing touches for a flat where a clean style is combined a refined simplicty.
Design project
Old power station regenerated into offices and luxury flats
Location: Munich, Germany
Client: Private
Size: 200 mq
Architects: Léon, Wohlhage, Wernik
Interior design: Maureen Schäffner
Artist: Cornelia Rapp
Interior design and furniture: Designfunktion München
Photos: Martin Kreuzer
