Robot under construction

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

Robots under construction with AI

Robots in construction are robots that use AI technology to autonomously perform certain construction tasks. The use of robots can help increase efficiency and accuracy in the construction process and reduce the need for manual labor.

An example of a robot in construction is an autonomous tiler capable of laying tiles on floors and walls. The robot uses AI technology to precisely position and adjust the tiles to achieve a perfect result.

Another example is an autonomous painting robot capable of painting walls and ceilings. The robot uses AI technology to analyze the surface and calculate the amount of paint needed to achieve an even finish.

There are also robots in construction that are capable of lifting and transporting heavy loads. These robots can help reduce the need for manual labor and increase safety on the construction site.

The use of robots in construction can also help speed up the construction process by performing tasks faster and more accurately than humans. As a result, construction companies can increase productivity and reduce costs.

Overall, robots in construction can help optimize the construction process by reducing the need for manual labor, increasing efficiency and accuracy, and boosting productivity.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

A preventive maintenance strategy can also increase efficiency in the maintenance process by allowing maintenance work to be planned and carried out in a more targeted manner. In addition, predictive maintenance can help to increase safety on the construction site by identifying and eliminating potential problems at an early stage. Overall, predictive maintenance can optimize the maintenance process, reduce costs and improve safety on the construction site.

Predictive Maintenance

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

Predictive Maintenance with AI

Predictive maintenance is a method that uses AI technology to optimize the maintenance of buildings and construction machinery. It uses data from sensors and other sources to predict potential problems and failures before they actually occur.

Detect anomalies and problems early

By monitoring data and sensors in buildings and construction machinery, AI-based software can detect anomalies and problems early on, preventing costly damage and breakdowns. For example, the software can predict when a machine needs to be serviced to avoid failure, or which parts need to be replaced to ensure a longer machine life.

Efficiency in the maintenance process

By using predictive maintenance, construction companies can also increase efficiency in the maintenance process by being able to plan and carry out maintenance in a more targeted manner. This can reduce costs by avoiding unnecessary maintenance and preventing expensive repairs or breakdowns.

Predictive maintenance can also help to increase safety on the construction site by identifying and eliminating potential problems at an early stage. This can prevent accidents and injuries that can be caused by a lack of maintenance or defective machines.

Overall, predictive maintenance can help optimize the maintenance process, increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety on the jobsite. By using AI technology, construction companies can develop a predictive and preventive maintenance strategy to identify and avoid problems at an early stage.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

Visualization of a villa: Step by step

FIV: How long does it take for an idea to be visualized by an architect? Example: Someone wants me to build a villa, for example in Mallorca, Ibiza, Marbella. What steps do the client and architect go through until the first visualization?

The time it takes to visualize an idea by an architect depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the project, the scope of the design, the availability of information, and the experience of the architect. In general, the following steps can be expected from an architect when planning a villa:

1. Meeting with the builder
2. Site and terrain analysis
3. Conceptual planning
4. Creation of design plans
5. Creation of 3D visualizations

Meeting with the builder

The architect meets with the client to discuss the client’s ideas, needs and requirements for the project.

Site and terrain analysis

The architect reviews the land on which the building is to be constructed to understand the topography, orientation, and specific features of the site. He/she also checks local building codes and other legal requirements.

Conceptual planning

The architect creates a concept based on the client’s requirements and site analysis. This may include an initial sketch or drawing showing the layout, structure, façade and materials of the building.

Creation of design plans

After the concept is approved, the architect begins the detailed design. This includes the creation of design plans that cover all aspects of the building, including the floor plan layout, facade, building details and materials.

Creation of 3D visualizations

The architect can also create 3D visualizations to give the client a better idea of how the finished building will look. These visualizations can be created on computer software or by hand drawing.

The time each step takes varies depending on the complexity of the project and other factors. In general, however, it can take several weeks to months to get from the initial meeting with the client to the first visualization.

Building a villa: 300 m² villa with pool & co.

FIV: Can you give an example schedule. Say for a 300m² villa with pool, etc.?

We are happy to do that, but really just as an example! The schedule will vary depending on the specific requirements of the project and the skills and experience of the architect. This would be an example if everything goes super ideal.

Design and draft

Week 1-2: Initial meeting with client, site and terrain analysis, determination of client’s requirements and needs. Week 3-4: Conceptual design, preparation of sketches and designs, meetings with the client to review and approve the concept. Weeks 5-8: Preparation of design plans, including floor plan layout, façade, building details, and materials. Involvement of specialists for e.g. landscaping, structural, electrical, plumbing, etc.

Then comes in about week 9-12: creating 3D visuals to give the builder a better idea of what the finished building will look like.

Permits and construction

Week 13-16: Approval of the design by the client and submission to the relevant authorities for the building permit. The process continues in weeks 17-22: After receiving the permit, detailed planning and execution begins. This includes the preparation of work plans, material lists and cost estimates.

Week 23-30: Prepare and solicit bids from various contractors and obtain recommendations from professionals. Week 31-36: Select contractors and sign contracts. Beginning the construction process and periodically reviewing progress. Week 37-44: Construction of the building including foundation, shell, roof, windows, doors, electrical and plumbing installations, flooring and facades.

Last but not least, week 45-52: finishing works such as painting, installation of kitchen and plumbing, lighting, etc. and commissioning of the pool and other outdoor facilities. Now a year is over!

It is important to note that this schedule is only an example and may vary depending on project requirements. Also, unforeseen events such as bad weather or delays in the delivery of materials can delay the construction process.

Who makes a 3D model?

FIV: Who creates such a 3D visualization, the architects themselves?

Yes, usually architects create 3D visualizations of their designs themselves. Modern architecture software, such as SketchUp, Revit or ArchiCAD, allow architects to create detailed 3D models of their designs and view them from different perspectives. This software also offers the possibility to simulate materials, lighting and shadows to achieve a realistic representation of the building.

Alternatively, architects can also use professional 3D visualization services that specialize in creating high-quality 3D visualizations. These services often use specialized software and technologies to create realistic and detailed visualizations. However, the cost of such services can be higher than the creation of the visualization by the architect himself.

3D Visualization: How does it work?

FIV: How long does the visualization alone take and what steps are involved?

The duration of the visualization depends on various factors, such as the complexity of the project, the level of detail of the visualization, the desired quality and the experience of the architect or visualization service provider. In general, the following steps can be part of creating a 3D visualization:

1. Modeling
2. Texturing
3. Lighting
4. Camera settings
5. Rendering
6. Postproduction

Modeling

The architect or the visualization service provider creates a 3D model of the building in an architecture software.

Texturing

The surfaces of the 3D model are textured with realistic materials such as concrete, wood or glass.

Lighting

The lighting of the scene is set to achieve a realistic representation. This can mean creating artificial lighting that resembles the natural lighting of the building, or simulating day-night changes.

Camera settings

The position of the virtual camera and the angle of view are determined to create the perspectives that the customer likes best.

Rendering

The 3D model is rendered, which means that the computer program creates a high-resolution, photorealistic version of the 3D model.

Postproduction

The 3D visualization is further processed using software to refine the background or shadow, for example, or to optimize the image.

The duration of the visualization depends on the complexity of the project, the number of perspectives required and the level of detail of the visualization. As a rule, the creation of a high-quality 3D visualization takes between a few hours and several days.

AI in architecture: The future

FIV: Now the big question: How can / how will AI (artificial intelligence) change this process? In terms of 3D visualization for builders?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has already begun to change and improve the process of 3D visualization in construction. Below are some ways AI can change the process of 3D visualization:

1. Automation
2. Personalization
3. Simulations
4. Efficiency increase
5. Real-time updates

Automation

AI-based software can automatically generate 3D models from 2D plans and drawings. This speeds up and simplifies the modeling process.

Personalization

AI can also facilitate the creation of personalized 3D visualizations. The software can generate 3D visualizations tailored to individual needs and requirements based on data from the client, such as their design preferences and budget.

Simulations

AI-based simulations can help identify and solve potential problems early on. For example, simulations can predict the effects of natural elements, such as sunlight and wind, on the building and thus optimize the design of windows and doors.

Efficiency increase

AI can also help make the entire design and construction process more efficient. By using AI, architects and engineers can make faster decisions and simplify the process of collaboration and communication.

Real-time updates

AI-based software can also provide real-time updates to 3D visualizations, allowing builders to see changes and provide feedback in real time. This can speed up the decision-making process and reduce the time spent in iteration loops.

Overall, the integration of AI into 3D visualization in construction will lead to a faster, more accurate, and more efficient design process, which in turn can lead to time and cost savings for building owners.

AI in 5 years: What’s in store?

Let’s say the world is 4, 5 years down the road, what could we expect in the future with AI in real estate and construction?

Tip. Since we wanted to know a bit more about the future, we asked Lukinski to explain the last checklist in more detail. Automation, 4D and robots! Just click the links.

Over the next 4-5 years, AI in real estate and construction could make many more advances. Here are some possible developments:

1. Automation of planning
2. Intelligent construction machinery
3. 4D visualization
4. Personalized advice
5. Robot under construction
6. Predictive Maintenance

Automation of planning

AI-based software could be able to create complete building designs automatically, including floor plan layout, façade and materials. This could significantly reduce planning times and costs.

More on AI and:

• Automation of planning

Intelligent construction machinery

AI may also be able to automatically control construction equipment such as cranes and excavators, speeding up and simplifying the construction process.

More on AI and:

• Intelligent construction machinery

4D visualization

AI-based software could be able to create 4D visualizations that show the evolution of the construction project over time, allowing for better planning and monitoring of the construction process.

More on AI and:

• 4D visualization

Personalized advice

AI-based advisory tools can help builders and architects make better decisions by providing personalized recommendations based on data and algorithms. For example, these tools can help recommend the best construction technique, materials, or energy efficiency options for a particular building.

More on AI and:

• Personalized advice

Metaverse

The metaverse is a term that refers to a virtual world where people can interact and communicate with each other in real time. Metaverse technology is expected to have a significant impact on visualization, construction and other aspects of the real estate industry.

• Metaverse and real estate

Robot under construction

AI-based robots may be able to autonomously perform certain construction tasks, such as laying flooring, welding or applying paint. This would allow certain jobs to be performed faster and more accurately.

More on AI and:

• Robot under construction

Predictive Maintenance

AI can also help with building maintenance. By monitoring data and sensors in buildings, AI software can detect anomalies and problems early on, preventing costly damage and breakdowns.

More on AI and:

• Predictive Maintenance

These developments are just a few examples of how AI could change the real estate and construction sector in the coming years. With the increasing availability of data and advanced technology, it is likely that AI-based solutions will become increasingly important in the future to improve efficiency and sustainability in the construction sector.

Thank you for the interview!

Automation of planning

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

Automation of planning with AI

Design automation is a process of automating the creation of building plans through the use of AI-based software solutions. This can help reduce planning times and costs, and increase planning efficiency and accuracy.

Automatically create building plans

AI-based software can use a variety of data sources to automatically generate building plans. These include environmental data, building types, and building materials, for example. One example is the use of generative design technology, in which an algorithm automatically generates different designs based on a number of parameters, such as room layout, building codes, or cost.

Preparation of construction plans and material lists

Automation can also be used in other areas of planning and the construction process, such as the creation of construction plans and material lists or the automated adaptation of plans to changes in the construction process.

By automating planning, time and cost savings can be achieved by reducing manual work. Errors can also be minimized and planning accuracy increased, as AI-based software solutions are able to take into account a large number of variables to achieve the best possible results.

It should be noted, however, that the automation of planning does not mean that the architect or engineer is replaced. The role of the architect or engineer in the planning and design of a building remains indispensable, even if the use of AI-based software solutions supports the planning process.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

Intelligent construction machinery

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

Intelligent construction machinery with AI

Smart construction machines are machines equipped with AI technology to improve their performance and efficiency. These machines can operate autonomously or be controlled by an operator who monitors the machine and intervenes when necessary.

The autonomous excavator

An example of a smart construction machine is an autonomous excavator or crane that uses AI technology to perform its work automatically. These machines can use sensors and cameras to sense their surroundings and process information to automatically adjust their work. For example, an autonomous excavator can use AI technology to independently identify where to dig to create the excavation and the amount of soil to remove. This allows the work to be done faster and more efficiently because the operator does not have to manually perform each step.

Intelligent concrete pump

Another example is a smart concrete pump that uses AI technology to monitor the flow of concrete and automatically adjust the pressure to ensure even distribution of the concrete. This can improve the quality of the final product.

Smart construction machines can also communicate with other machines and equipment to coordinate the construction process and increase efficiency. For example, an autonomous crane can communicate with an autonomous excavator to make the removal of materials more efficient.

Overall, intelligent construction machinery can help make the construction process faster, more efficient and safer. The use of AI technology can minimize errors, increase accuracy and reduce costs.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

There are two types of 4D visualizations: timeline visualization and simulation-based visualization. Both methods are useful for monitoring construction progress and discussing changes or adjustments together. In the future, AI can help improve 3D visualization through automation, personalization, simulations, and efficiency improvements, which can make the construction process faster and more efficient.

4D visualization

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

4D visualization with AI

4D visualization is a method that makes it possible to show the development of a construction project over time in a 3D visualization. In this process, temporal information is integrated into the visualization so that the construction project is represented over time. This can help to plan, monitor and improve the construction process.

In general, there are two types of 4D visualizations: “Timeline” and “Simulation”.

Timeline visualizations show the development of the project over time in a kind of timeline that represents the different phases of the construction. This method is particularly useful for monitoring the progress of the project and optimizing the schedule.

Simulation-based 4D visualizations

Simulation-based 4D visualizations use simulation to model construction progress over time. This method makes it possible to simulate different scenarios to see how changes in schedule or construction methods can affect the progress of the project. For example, a simulation can show how a delay in the delivery of materials will affect construction progress.

4D visualization can also help with collaboration between different project stakeholders, as it provides a common and easy-to-understand representation of the project. For example, an architect can use 4D visualization to explain the progress of the project to the owner and discuss changes or adjustments together.

Overall, 4D visualization can help streamline the construction process, monitor progress, and improve scheduling, which can lead to faster and more efficient project completion.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

Personalized advice

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

Personalized consulting and AI

Personalized advice in construction is one way to use AI-based software solutions to provide customized recommendations and decision support to builders and architects.

This can be done using data from a variety of sources, such as the builder himself (e.g., design preferences and budget), satellite imagery (e.g., to analyze the surrounding area), or databases (e.g., to identify building materials and construction techniques).

The AI-based software solution uses this data and algorithms to generate personalized recommendations. For example, the software can suggest which building materials and techniques are best suited for a particular building based on factors such as location, climate, and building codes.

Personalized consulting can also help speed up and simplify the decision-making process by helping builders and architects make the best choices. For example, the software can present different design options based on the builder’s preferences, helping them make a decision.

Personalized consulting can also help optimize costs and resources by helping builders and architects choose the best materials and construction techniques that are within the project’s budget.

Overall, personalized consulting through AI-based software solutions can help speed up the planning process, improve the quality of planning, and increase efficiency in the construction process.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

Your Job: Living, Buying and Luxury Living

The themes in your new resort are extremely diverse! On the one hand, it’s about casual topics, like different interior design styles or even the homes of celebrities. On the other hand, it’s about our readers learning a lot more with us, such as everything important for their first condo.

It’s “just” about writing, we design small content worlds for our readers!

If just one of your articles reaches 100 people a week, that’s 5,600 readers a year. Imagine 5,600 people metaphorically. Each and every one of you. Suddenly, it’s not “just” writing anymore. After all, over 5,000 people trust the recommendations from an article. If your article gets 1,000 readers a week, that’s a whole 56,000 people a year and next year. PS: Your articles will also be translated into 4 other languages (English, French, Spanish and Italian).

With us you learn Deep Content / Content Marketing

Your tasks in the editorial office

Your job in explained quickly and only in bullet points:

• You deliver real added value for our readers
• Article layout – intelligent structure
• Creating text and image content in the CMS
• Planning of new topics in the department
• Collaboration with brands and partners – PR
• Working with Photoshop
• Occasional video editing and audio (podcast)
• Cross-company collaboration (internal) @ CXMXO
• You learn know-how in real estate trade
• …

We are looking for you in full time, part time in Cologne.

Tip for newcomers: You haven’t had the chance to gain experience in an editorial office yet? Then our magazine internship might be just the thing for you (below).

Start, salary and working hours

The most important facts about starting, salary and working hours:

• Start time: immediately
• Working Hours: Full time / Part time
• No weekends!
• Salary: according to agreement

Application: Editorial full-time / part-time

Send us your resume + short cover letter to:

office@fivmagazine.com

Your topics and tasks

1. Furnishing styles: Luxury Living
2. How Stars Live: House Tour
3. Real estate as an investment: Financial freedom
4. Real estate trends: Building and living in the future

Furnishing styles: Luxury Living

Furnishing styles – live in the country style, with retro look or Scandinavian style. Every home is individual. We want to give our readers inspiration above all, but also tips for new interior design trends. To this end, we work on ideas for living rooms, bedrooms, children’s rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and our own gardens through our own research and in collaboration with PR agencies and brands.

How Stars Live: House Tour

This is how stars live – many celebrities and influencers have millions of fans and of course they want to know what their stars’ homes are like. We take a look at luxurious villas in Beverly Hills (Los Angeles), but also at chic loft apartments in Berlin Mitte. Architecture, interior design and luxury furniture brands.

Buying your first apartment – many of our readers are interested in the topic of owning their own home, their own dream home and living rent-free. That’s why we also provide our readers with a lot of knowledge so that they can optimally prepare for the purchase of their first condominium.

Real estate as an investment: Financial freedom

Real estate as an investment – some people even go one step further and buy real estate as an investment. That means they buy a property and then rent it out. That is very clever! Because this way you take a lot of tax advantages. In addition, your tenant pays off your first property.

Real estate trends: Building and living in the future

Real estate trends – from new districts that are emerging, to trends like real estate crowdinvesting, in our editorial department you are also out and about as a trend scout. That way, our readers are the first to know when there’s something new.

Application: Online editorial full-time / part-time

Send us your resume + short cover letter to:

office@fivmagazine.com

Internship (newcomer): Gaining experience

Content creation for us is so much more than just writing texts! Ultimately, we always build a small universe in which our users (readers, visitors) get good information with added value. By intelligently linking individual pieces of content, we want visitors to learn as much as possible. No matter if they only have a few seconds, e.g. while waiting for the subway, or if they are relaxed and reading a detailed article with their tablet on Sunday morning.

So in this internship you will not only be present, but you will also create, produce and learn a lot.

Gaining work experience in an internship – you have little practical experience and are looking for an internship where you can learn a lot? Then you’ve come to the right place. Start your internship with us with a chance of being taken on.

Compulsory internship possible?

We often get the question, “Can I do a mandatory internship with you? Yes! We also offer you the possibility that you can complete a full mandatory internship with us by learning a lot.

Perfect for you, even from school and study courses like:

• Media Management
• Public Relations
• Media and communication management
• Media design; design and production
• Digital media
• …

Application: Internship / Compulsory internship

Send us your resume + short cover letter to:

office@fivmagazine.com

Residential, Offices, Commercial & Flagship Projects

The architectural firm Graft from Berlin was founded by three German architects, and is now a renowned and both nationally and internationally successful company. We have conducted an extensive interview with the founders, which we have divided into 3 thematic sections, for each of which an article was created. In the first part the founders talk about passion, foundation and drive of the company. The second part of the interview deals mainly with residential and mixed use projects. The third part deals with Graft’s future projects. Click here to get to the respective parts of the interview:

1. Architect’s office
2. Residential & Mixed Use

This section deals with flagship projects, as well as residential and mixed-use properties. Whether it’s a dental practice, a revitalization project with historic preservation factor, or a modern villa for private owners: the portfolio of the architecture firm is versatile and unique. No two projects are alike, and there is always something new to discover! Take a closer look at the projects here and let the founders explain more about the development processes, ideas and concepts.

KU64/65 Dental practice with best location at Kudamm

FIV: One of your flagship projects is the KU64 Dental Clinic and the KU65 Kids Club in Berlin. When you are commissioned, one can always expect something special. As you can see from the photos, the KU64 Dental Clinic is an open space, partly with floating ceilings. It’s a dunescape of sorts, and kids can even climb the walls in the Kids Club – you’ve never seen a children’s dental clinic like this. Plus vertical gardens with lush greenery. What makes KU64 a special project for you?

Graft: What was interesting about the KU64 project was that a dentist called us. We hadn’t done much in the healthcare sector before and actually came from the hospitality sector. For us, the opening of the path “from hospital to hospitality” was interesting. The root word already contains the same word: to be a host.

Not just a practice! Three jobs in one

Graft: We only accepted the request for the dental practice because the dentist Dr. Ziegler said that he was planning something bigger with this clinic and that he wanted a practice that would break all the rules and turn expectations upside down. We were happy to accept and I personally (L. Krückeberg) believe that we have succeeded in fulfilling this wish.

Basically, the project was divided into three jobs: We did the KU64 clinic on the Kudamm on the 5th and 6th floors, and expanded that at a later date to include the pediatric practice in the same building. In the meantime we have built more practices in this style for Dr. Ziegler, plus extensions in other locations.

• Tip! You can find more information and pictures about the project here: KU64 & KU65

Why a dental practice? The doctor is host, the patient is king

Graft: Why were we so interested in the project of a dental practice? Because Dr. Ziegler has understood that in our society, health care is basically a service to people, and that one is therefore a host. That a dental practice or a hospital should function like a hotel, where the guest is king. If you take this into account, you will also be successful.

The fact that we are still working with Dr. Ziegler today and that the project has always expanded is due to the fact that we have found narratives that revolve primarily around the patient: how he feels (treated and met). On the one hand, this is related to the abilities of a doctor, on the other hand, it is also related to the “stage” on which this doctor acts (this also involves, for example, lighting, elevators, etc.).

If you can do something like that as an architect, with the user and client as the director, then a lot can be achieved.

Architecture in the medical & health sector

Graft: This focus on the customer/patient interested us, and since then we have done an extremely large amount in this area – right up to the actual hospital. Intensive Care Units, for example, in which we work with experts to examine scientifically and evidence-based conditions under which the healing process of intensive care patients can proceed more quickly.

We have been working on this research project with the Charité for several years. It is scientifically proven today that architecture can heal. We found our entry into the medical sector through Dr. Ziegler, because he had the foresight to set up differently as a dentist.

“It is now scientifically proven that architecture can heal.”

© Tobias Hein

BRLO: Container architecture for Berlin’s city centre

FIV: Building without concrete – That’s how you could sum up the next project. Container architecture in modular construction would be even more accurate. Another flagship project of your office is the BRLO Berlin in Gleisdreieck. It is aimed at a very urban cultural scene.The BRLO is designed as a free-standing building made of overseas containers. The whole thing as a portable home base for the young company. What attracted you to this project in particular, and to container architecture?What was the key point for you that made you say ‘yes, we’d like to do that, and that’s how we’d like to implement it’?

Graft: ‘Building without concrete’ basically sums it up, we are building there with the inclusion of the concept of grey energy. In this case, not with a found building, but with reused containers. For as long as we’ve been around, we’ve been dealing with the urban fabric – all over the world, whether it’s Los Angeles, New York, Beijing, Shanghai or Berlin.

“For as long as we’ve been around, we’ve been concerned with the urban fabric.”

BRLO is not the first project we have built with containers. We first used containers in California almost 20 years ago. At that time, they weren’t considered a building material and weren’t approved for outdoor use, so we used the containers for indoor use. We used them to build workrooms, conference rooms that were lined like fool’s tents.

Platoon & BRLO: “Temporary building” with versatile use

Graft: We realized projects with “Platoon” in Berlin, but especially in Seoul (Korea), where “artists in residence” could work in containers for a while. There were large meeting spaces and rooms available for all kinds of festivities. We subsequently did the same in Berlin in Schönhauser Allee.

In the meantime, however, the Berlin Platoon Kunsthalle has moved on. That’s what it’s all about: building with principles that are capable of temporarily achieving something and producing history and added value. But when the time comes, this architecture can move. That’s exactly what we’ve managed to do a few times in collaboration with Platoon, and that’s also possible for BRLO.

We started the BRLO project with the dictum that the building should only be in Berlin for 3-5 years. Currently, however, we are submitting a building application for it to remain standing for a few more years, because the final development on the site is somewhat delayed and because it is very successful and popular with the people. That’s why sometimes the temporary is given a very, very long life, which is also the case with BRLO.

Temporary concepts: tradition meets innovation

Graft: But if – for whatever reason – the axe of time comes, then the BRLO brewery can move, or be taken apart and become something else in the value chain. This kind of “other urban development” is something that also interests us: urban development that is temporary, that can enhance entire areas with the right ideas, but is “light on its feet” because it can also disappear again without having to blow up foundations.

Temporary use is as much a part of the city as many things that are meant to last forever, and it has always existed: we think of marketplaces, places of urban rituals that are as old as man himself.

“The city is fast, the world is global – And we as architects need to think just as fast and globally.”

“Temporary buildings” are not new, you just have to think back to this beautiful tradition and implement it with today’s means. In doing so, one can create a lot of added value for the urban space without having to make long-term decisions – be it an investment of money or even time. This is an area that interests us because today’s city is fast. The world is global, and as architects we have to think just as quickly and globally, knowing that our profession is actually one that often takes much longer to plan, but then of course lasts much longer as a building.

© Done Studio, Ulf Saupe

Residential property Berlin: Villa M in Grunewald

Something that is actually particularly exciting for our readers is the aspect of residential or mixed-use real estate. Projects like Villa M, the Bricks project or the Charlie Living Quartier in Berlin come to mind.

FIV: First to Villa M, which is clad all around with custom-made ceramic tiles based on a modular product, but some of which were also custom-made. The search for the right partners alone, in order to be able to implement the whole thing practically, takes a lot of time. The production therefore all the longer. The entire object is reminiscent of an ice-age boulder, if you will, and is surrounded by classical villas in Berlin Grunewald. First of all, the unusual design: How do you develop such a project? Does the idea arise randomly in a second, or is it weeks of planning with the client, or does that vary depending on the project?

Graft: The development of a project is a very, very long journey, and it was actually only at the end that this nickname ‘The ‘Foundling’ came about, this association that the house looks like a large stone, almost like a meteor. It was clear that the client gave us an extremely free hand in this case, and wanted something out of the ordinary. Something he can be proud of and that triggers a new stimulation of interpretation, which just doesn’t have a classic deciphering of a ‘narrative of house’.

• Tip. You want to know more facts about Villa M? Then you can find more information here: Villa M

Planning process of a luxury property: construction planning, preparation & concept

Graft: Of course, the house also had to be brought into the neighbourhood and placed in a building code, a planning code and a B-plan on site. This actually assumes that the house has three floors with a roof, with a clearly recognizable entrance door.

Trying to create such a scenic, nature-like image was basically an iterative process, a brainstorm between the client, us partners, and our collaborators. This is how Villa M was born over a very long period of time.

“The not-quite-clear in Villa M’s identity, that’s intentional.”

What many now recognize in the villa, the metaphor of the boulder, was not important to us at the moment of invention at the beginning, it only emerged retrospectively, was recognized, read…. We show a new possible interpretation in the narrative, but: the actually not quite clear and unambiguous in the identity, that the villa triggers different things depending on the daylight, depending on the observer, depending on the decade in which one looks at it, that is intentional.

Final draft needs time

FIV: So in that case it was a longer process to get to the actual final design?

Graft: It’s usually the case that the process to the final draft is lengthy. Strokes of genius usually only happen in the shortening of the film, or if your name is Mozart. It’s no fun at all if you’re done after one second. We want to extend the moment of the idea, to mature it. That becomes realpolitik soon enough.

To go on this journey, to understand what the place, the circumstances and the counterpart want there, that is the exciting thing. When the moment of listening into this still empty space, the still white sheet of paper lasts longer than a stroke of genius of 14 seconds, then that is really beautiful.

Special features of Villa M: Modern facade, apartment building with flat

FIV: The whole concept of the house is interesting, because it can be used as a multi-family house, as well as separately into individual units. Advantageous for the owner, so the possible uses are expandable. Could you tell us more about these and other subtleties of this villa?

Graft: The house is originally designed for one user who wants to live in the house alone (in the future with family). What you make of it later for a subdivision, the architect no longer has any influence. We did not plan it as a multi-family house, but it can still be used by several residents in this way.

The theme, however, was first and foremost to reinterpret a stately, social house, and this in a forest settlement of wealthy Berliners built at the end of the 19th century. To create a social appearance, with a possibility to entertain and to accommodate staff. To bring a very classical program into a really completely innovative and undecipherable form.

Innovations in real estate design: house and garden

Graft: In the past, you would have built a classic portico, the servants would have lived under the roof, you would have made large entertainment spaces on the ground floor and the kitchen would not have been so dominant and open to the living landscape. It’s very different in this house: it wants to be landscaped. This quality continues in the design of the garden. Together with the landscape planners from Kre_Ta, we began early on to imagine the house as something holistic in its garden design as well. That is why the materiality and the formal language continue in the garden.

Of course, such a house would still prefer to stand in a huge park, or on the slope of a hill in the low mountains of Germany, or, or, or. The owner himself is proud of the fact that his house is a bit out of the ordinary, that it is an eye-catcher, and that within these Gründerzeit villas it actually also says: “Hello, I am something new! Here it’s new beginnings instead of restoration!”

Exemplary for a “trick” of this villa is the second staircase inside. Assuming the house is sold and put to another use, such as an apartment building with one apartment per floor. Then the individual apartments could be reached separately. That’s why we’ve kept the interior half-restrained, except for the staircase, and tried to equip it in a classic way.

© Tobias Hein

Modern architecture means rethinking the old

FIV: As you said at the beginning, Graft basically stands for innovation as a collaborative office. You use extravagant materials, such as the ceramic tiles for the façade in this case, as well as other modern elements, and with this break with conventions you also ensure innovation, so to speak, also in the field of real estate in general. Therefore the relatively general, but nevertheless very exciting question specifically put to you: What is or what does modern architecture mean to you personally?

Graft: We see ourselves as representatives of modern architecture and, as Wolfram (Putz) said, we are definitely looking for the new. It is our self-image that we have studied architecture in order to think the new, because we already know the familiar. Everyone can do the repetitive, but you don’t need to study architecture for that. If you don’t have the feeling that you can contribute something to the solution of the future – and often only new things / innovations paired with known things can do that – then we don’t see any real sense in the profession of architect.

“Breaking conventions is not a quality in itself.”

But breaking conventions is not a quality in itself. We also love the history of architecture and great qualities that were achieved by architects before us. We see ourselves in this tradition of architects.

Karl Friedrich Schinkel was revolutionary in his time, even if his works seem somewhat classically timeless to us today. These are all retroactive ways of looking at things. Schinkel wanted to think the very best, the most innovative and the newest in his time – and he was very versatil. He was not only a classicist, he was an explorer and innovator. He was also a pioneer of modernity, if you look at his Bauakademie, for example, or the department stores he planned. What I (T. Willemei) would like to say is: We love tradition, but traditions must – for us – prove themselves again and again.

Modern architecture is a question of attitude: traditions & new building projects

Graft: A sentence by Thomas More, which is already 500 years old and proves that time and age do not matter at all, is: “Tradition is not keeping the ashes, but passing on the flame”. That’s what tradition is to us: if they’re still burning, they’re good traditions. Traditions that have burned down we no longer need as a society. We can invent new ones, and that’s what we at Graft have a great desire to do. We all know that reinvention doesn’t mean making everything new, but changing one little thing in a very complex structure.

We all stand on the shoulders of giants. But we like to stand up there, because from there you have a far-sighted view and sometimes you even have to jump off the shoulder for something to change. We like to do that, and in doing so, get each other excited about the new. Not because it’s new, but because the new can deliver. If it doesn’t, then the new can be put aside very quickly. We are still friends of just trying it.

“In the end, there must be added value!”

If you want to walk, you have to lift one foot and shift your balance, otherwise you can’t start walking. In many ways we look forward to being given the opportunity to learn to walk again – just as children do – to lose our balance every now and then and to enter a ‘terrain vague’. Because that’s where a special adventure often beckons, not only for architects but also for the client. At the end of the day, however, there must be added value: for society, for feasibility, for sales or simply for the pleasure of using architecture. If that is modernity, then we are happy to be part of it!

Bricks Berlin: Traditional building material in a new look

FIV: In the course of this, the question about the Bricks project, which was also in Berlin: It’s not always just about new construction. Brick Berlin Schöneberg was a revitalization project. How do you approach such a project, what did you want or should you absolutely preserve in the building?

Graft: Bricks is one of Graft’s biggest projects in recent times, and it’s a retelling of a quality and history already found. Bricks was the ensemble that permeates an entire Berlin block: an old, large Postfuhramt. Even in its first generation of construction, it was a truly great piece of architecture, and was therefore classified as an architectural monument at an early stage. Our client, with whom we had already implemented several projects, acquired the old post office in order to make something completely different out of it and to re-densify it.

“What is the tomorrow for which we are rebuilding modernity?”

That’s why it was totally great to go on a research trip into the past to (find) all the threads you want to pick up in order to understand such a project. To also honor in a way the intentions of the colleagues who built this house in the past. And without imitating them or copying them.

We don’t think any architect – at least not one with a similar mindset to ours – would want you to add to their house 100 years from now as they would have done themselves at the time it was built. These architects were also the ones who lived, loved and demanded the present in the present, and pushed to understand: What is the tomorrow for which we are rebuilding modernity?

Brick as material & link to the extension and transformation of the property

Graft: In this respect, we were not at all afraid to say: we want to continue the story there, but with an attitude from today. The thing that links the time to the past is the use of the same material. This very typical Berlin material, brick, which has a great history in this city.

We asked ourselves: What are the forms of expression of brick today? What are constructional possibilities that brick has today that it did not have 100 years ago? In the entrance to the façade on the main street, for example, something was created that could only be produced by computer-assisted generation of form and control of this form in the manufacturing process of brick laying, because every line, every layer of bricks follows a different contour or topographical line.

Thus, expressionist borrowings from turn-of-the-century brick architecture suddenly emerged, with a formal expression that could not have been produced by hand in this way – at least not with such precision and only in a very complicated way. Even though it is only a small part of the ensemble that is occupied by this parametric design and construction technique, it still shows that the house could not have been built before 1999, indeed probably not before 2010. In this respect, through the house we are expressing a next, new generation of architecture that is very much of its time.

• Tip! Learn more about this graft project here: Bricks Berlin

Generations of Architecture – Future through Origin

Graft: With the project Bricks we want to break out of the hard architecture of the “box”, which is very much shaped by rules or also by a lack of imagination, and introduce a sensitization, poetization and also feminization of formal languages that can trigger a different basic vibration in the observer. A language of form that allows space to flow differently in urban space.

Some of this already existed in the twentieth century, but it has only become more controllable, plannable and feasible in the course of the last 10 – 15 years thanks to computer-generated architecture. That is why it is also more visible in many areas. The future needs origins. We stand on the shoulders of other innovators.

What’s also nice is that there’s a really great mix of social groups and uses inside the building. People live there, work there and there is a large Jewish Kabbalah centre, which is a spiritual place.

Of course, there are also very classic office and commercial opportunities, and a post office. In that respect, it’s a nice, so-called “Berlin mix”. Further-experimented-narrated in what used to be a monofunctional post office area. This can show everyone how old, historic buildings can break their corset and be found again in this city we all love: Big city, but village-like in scale and interior.

Pictures: Bricks Berlin Schöneberg, Conversion & New Construction Project

Here you can find some impressions of the revitalization project Bricks. Particularly exciting here is, among other things, the implementation and continuation of the facade with the building material brick. Different buildings have different appearances, and yet are connected to each other through the material.

© BTTR GmbH

In this photo you can take a closer look at the unique implementation of the facade. Individually positioned bricks form an impressive structure, especially at this entrance.

© BTTR GmbH

Another building of the Bricks project was clad with the same building material, but in a completely different implementation. This results in the already mentioned tension between different façade designs and the simultaneous connection through the theme of bricks.

© Trockland

Architects and future projects – Interview part 1 & 3

You want to learn more about Graft, its founders, foundation and planned future projects? No problem! We have divided the extensive interview with the architecture firm into 3 thematic sections, each of which gives a closer look at Graft’s work and projects. So feel free to read the other parts of the interview and learn more about Graft as an architecture firm, their corporate philosophy or even about exciting and innovative projects of the future. Graft all over!

Architects and successful work (1/3)

You find the projects presented so far interesting and would like to learn more about the architectural office? No problem! In addition to residential / mixed use projects, we also talked to the founders about the origins and philosophy of their company, as well as future projects. In Part 1 of the interview, you can find out even more about the founders and how they came together as a group of entrepreneurs. You’ll also find out what makes Graft’s properties so unique, and the architects’ attitude towards their work. Read more here!

• Architects and their work – Graft

© Pablo Castagnola (From left to right: Thomas Willemeit, Wolfram Putz, Lars Krückeberg)

Future projects – e-cars and air taxis (3/3)

Electric cars, filling stations for electricity and air taxis – dreams of the future? Not at all! The modern company wants to act as a pioneer, create opportunities and solve problems! With its future projects, Graft, as a pioneer of the transport revolution, is embarking on a search for innovative solutions to modern problems together with strong partners such as e.on. Find out everything about the exciting architectural projects of tomorrow here!

• Future projects – air taxi & co.

© GRAFT Brandlab/Skyports/Volocopter/GRAFT , VoloPort design

KU64 Dental Clinic & KU65 Kids Club: Dental clinic with design

The projects “KU64 Dental Clinic” (2005) and “Ku65 Kids Club” (2011) were both commissioned by the dentist Dr. med. dent. Stephan Ziegler by the architectural office Graft. The aim was to turn the dental practice, which has mainly negative associations, into a real world of experience that would make the patient’s visit as pleasant as possible. The goal was clear: away from the clinical and hygienic state of emergency, towards positive associations of well-being and relaxation. The fear of the dentist should be forgotten, associations of a visit to the beach should be evoked.

© Tobias Hein / KU 64

Location in Berlin: Kudamm, city centre

The dental practice of dentist Stephan Ziegler is located in the center of Berlin, directly on Kurfürstendamm in the Wilmersdorf district. The central location and the unique design make the practice a patient favorite, and especially children get their money’s worth here. The connection to public transport is optimal due to the central location.

Streetview: Tour of the practice

Don’t have any dental issues, but would love to take a look around the property? No problem! With Google Streetview, you can not only view the building from the outside, but also take a virtual tour of the dental practice. Take a closer look at the design and layout of the rooms at your leisure.

KU64 Dental Clinic: Dental practice with comfort and attention like in a spa

The concept for the design and architecture of the KU64 Dental Clinic was to represent a radical, new type of the usual dental practice. Shades of yellow, red and orange, as well as the implied dune landscape, are intended to create a space that makes the visitor feel as if they are visiting a beach. The floor curves up and the ceiling forms waves: the space is meant to envelop visitors and doctors rather than enclose them. “Dune mountains and valleys” are thereby arranged to preserve privacy and maintain a sense of intimacy, but still allow for a generous view throughout the practice.

© Tobias Hein / KU64

KU65 Kids Club: Dental practice for children with “playground”, colours and pictures

The Kids Club was created in 2011 as an extension of the Ku64 practice, and is – as the name already suggests – a children’s dental practice. The dune landscape from the already realized KU64 practice is continued in the Kids Club, and allows climbing and playing on ceilings and walls of the practice through various applications. One of the highlights here is a vertical garden behind which the treatment rooms are located.

© Tobias Hein / KU65

Special Features: Daybeds, fireplace, climbing wall & vertical gardens

What actually makes the dental practice on the Kudamm so special? The pictures speak volumes! This is probably one of the most unique and unusual dental practices you have ever seen – especially in Germany. Innovation and design combine with the functional purpose of a dental practice and turn the visit to the dentist, so feared by many, into a positive experience.

The interior design, laid out like a dune landscape, and warm colours are intended to convey a feeling of a spa and a visit to the beach, while the fireplace and sunbathing areas invite you to linger. Health and well-being are the main focus here. The Kids Club is also designed with the positive experience of young patients in mind. Climbing facilities distract children from anxiety and provide plenty of space and opportunity for play, fun and discovery.

© Hiepler , Burnier / KU 64

Technical data: location, client, construction period

The project of the KU64 / 65 dental practice was very close to the hearts of the architects from Graft Architekturbüro. To create the combination of a “classic” dental practice with innovation and a completely new feeling for the patients – that was the difficulty. In the meantime, the practice extends over two floors for young and old alike, and offers plenty of room for discovery. Here are some technical facts of the special architectural project:

• Location: Berlin, Kurfürstendamm
• Project: Health (dental clinic)
• Client: Dr. med. dent. Stephan Ziegler
• Period: 2005 (KU64 Dental Clinic)
• Period: 2011 (KU65 Kids Club)

© Hiepler , Burnier / KU64

Architects Graft: Interview on architecture, projects and air taxi ports

With 150 employees by now, the architecture firm Graft is a large and internationally highly successful architectural practice. With offices in Berlin, Los Angeles and Beijing, international masterpieces are accomplished and the portfolio of architects is growing and growing. You can find out what exactly the Graft architectural practice is all about, how the company came into being and which exciting projects Graft has realised or will realise in addition to the KU64 Dental Clinic in our detailed article on the Graft architectural practice. We also talked to one of the founders of Graft in an extensive interview about the Dental Clinic and many other works. You can find the whole interview and the inspiring answers of the architects here:

1. Architect’s office
2. Residential & Mixed Use
3. Future: E-car charging station & Co.

© Tobias Hein, KU65

More pictures & impressions: KU65 – Child-friendly doctor’s visit

Here you get some more insights into the Kids Club on Kurfürstendamm. Particularly special here are the penetrating color scheme and the many child-friendly illustrations on the walls, ceilings and floors.

© Tobias Hein, KU65

© Tobias Hein, KU65