Old buildings: the ideal of living or exaggerated nostalgia?

Old buildings: the ideal of living or exaggerated nostalgia?
Old buildings from the Wilhelminian era – they set the style for Berlin, the fascinating mixture of imposing architecture and attention to detail is the measure of all things for many people. Historic houses and apartments are in greater demand than ever before, especially in big cities like Berlin. The often cited “patina” of the old buildings and stylistic elements such as the magnificent, often stucco-decorated façades, high ceilings, floorboards and double-glazed windows contribute significantly to the attractiveness of the buildings.
The Wilhelminian-style buildings in particular, most of which were built around the turn of the century, always embody the splendor of days long past and thus preserve the characteristic charm of German cities like Berlin.
What is an old building?
But what exactly is an old building? After all, there is no universal definition for the term “old building”. The Duden dictionary defines an old building as an “older building completed before a certain date”. Wikipedia is somewhat more specific: “A residential building is described as an old building primarily on the basis of its condition and the construction method used during certain periods. This essentially refers to the construction method commonly used in housing until the Second World War, which typically used masonry walls, wooden beam ceilings and box-type windows. The beginning of the construction of concrete walls and ceilings as well as composite and insulating glass windows and especially the construction of prefabricated buildings on a large scale therefore generally marks the end of the old building era and is usually dated to 1949 in Germany.”
When is a building considered an old building?
A house that was built in 1954 is therefore already an old building, but when we talk about “old buildings”, we are usually referring to Wilhelminian-style buildings in the Art Nouveau style or even older multi-storey buildings. These are characterized by the classic high ceilings, floorboards, old parquet floors, often small dining or maids’ rooms, stucco, single or double casement windows. However, some of the classic modernist buildings from the 1920s still have high ceilings and spacious rooms and have their very own charm.
What characterizes an old Wilhelminian style building?
The Wilhelminian period, which lasted from around 1870 to 1910, produced a large number of old buildings that stand out due to their rich furnishings and generous room layouts. Typical features include high ceilings, stucco decorations and large windows. These buildings are particularly popular in inner-city residential areas and characterize the cityscape of many German cities.
Which stylistic elements are typical of old buildings?
Old buildings are characterized by a variety of stylistic elements, which can range from Gothic to Baroque to Historicism. Typical features include ornamentation, stucco, parquet or floorboards and generous room heights. These stylistic elements clearly distinguish old buildings from modern new buildings, which are often designed to be simpler and more functional.
What makes Berlin’s old buildings special?
Berlin’s old buildings are particularly known for their tenements from the Wilhelminian era , which still characterize the cityscape today. These buildings were constructed between the end of the 19th century and the First World War and offer spacious apartments with high ceilings and stucco decorations. Many of these historic buildings can be found in districts such as Charlottenburg, Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg.
What are the advantages of high ceilings in old buildings? See the guide posts: to
How to keep your apartment in an old building nice and cool in summer
How to make perfect use of the ceiling height of your old apartment
Why do old buildings have high ceilings?
Old buildings were often built with high ceilings to create a feeling of spaciousness and airiness. High ceilings improve air circulation and contribute to a more pleasant indoor climate. However, they can also have disadvantages, such as higher heating costs and difficulties when renovating.
Typical old building – advantages and disadvantages
Despite all the nostalgia, old buildings can also have their pitfalls. Bathrooms in old buildings are rarely spacious and the existing rooms are often difficult to fit. The plumbing, electrics and heating can also be outdated, and mold can be a problem in some places. However, not everyone is prepared to make extensive repairs to their new home or rental property. Ideally, an apartment in an old building should therefore be purchased completely renovated ; a modern and professionally renovated old building can offer the same amenities as a new build. There are hardly any compromises to be made and residents can enjoy the charm and appearance of an old building combined with the advantages and modern technology of a new-build apartment. Various real estate companies in major cities have specialized in renovating listed old buildings and selling the modernized apartments to owner-occupiers or investors. For many “old building fans”, it is therefore advisable to considerbuying a comprehensively renovated old building from the outset – here you are safe from nasty surprises and can enjoy a contemporary standard of living.
Old or new building is a question of type!
But of course, no building type can offer everything. Even in extensively renovated and high-quality modernized old buildings , buyers may have to accept restrictions compared to a new-build apartment . These primarily include the limits of energy efficiency, the existing room layout and the often limited accessibility. Of course, a comprehensively renovated and modernized property.
Creative and well thought-out solutions are required to fully exploit the advantages of the impressive apartments in old buildings. If you are enthusiastic about the advantages of an apartment in an old building and can imagine living in such a charming ambience, then you should take a look at Fortis’ attractive condominiums in old buildings. These not only offer the typical old building charm with high ceilings and stylish details, but also modernized and renovated living spaces that guarantee the highest level of living comfort. Discover your new home in one of Berlin’s most beautiful old buildings and enjoy the unique living experience that only an apartment in an old building can offer.
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