DEDRAFT have completed a extensive refurbishment of a penthouse apartment within ‘The Old German Hospital’ in London Fields, Hackney.

The works involve a striking materials palette befitting the Modernist building. Designed by Burnet, Tait & Lornein and built in 1935-36 as an extension to the existing German Hospital it is thought to have been inspired by Alvar Aalto’s Paimio Sanatorium and is currently Grade II listed.

As the building features a structural concrete frame the internal layout and stepped floors were retained with the focus directed towards creating a luxurious backdrop for the clients photography, art and vintage furniture collection. The original elegant, pivoting Crittall glazing was all upgraded to house double-glazed units and internal window treatments installed to give much needed solar control.

Running with a moody but complementary palette the fumed oak floors and deep-set doors add a richness and warmth defining deep, generously proportioned openings within the clay plastered walls. A suspended dark stained oak ceiling, references Aalto and hovers over the living space to create a compressed intimacy in contrast to more generous ceilings throughout. This features integrated uplighting, scene lighting and audio visual equipment.

A minimal grey kitchen with marble top and brass hardware sits quietly in the one corner enveloped by grey plaster. Replacement terrazzo cills nod to finishes seen in the communal areas within the building.

Decorative light fittings and classic freestanding pieces including Poul Henningsen, Eileen Grey and Warren Platner are scattered throughout the flat with large- format photographic shots by Robin Friend of  ‘Bastard Countryside’ fame.

Structural Design – SD Structures

Contractor – CCS