Architect
products & services
block-steps ● cover-plates ● paving-stones ● stair-coverings
Location
Bötzowstraße, 10407 Berlin
Prenzlauer Berg stands as a vibrant testament to the successful fusion of history and modernity. Where breweries, slaughterhouses, and factories once defined the district, cultural venues, residential neighborhoods, and lively urban spaces have emerged. Among them, the Bötzow Areal, one of the city’s most renowned brewery complexes, has been transformed into a dynamic hub with diverse uses under the guidance of David Chipperfield Architects, respecting heritage preservation requirements.
Founded in 1864, the Bötzow Brewery quickly became a key production site in Berlin. Its distinctive brick buildings continue to shape the district’s character. Despite wartime destruction, much of the historic structure survived, and in 1990 the site was listed for preservation, providing a foundation for its later adaptive reuse.
The master plan by David Chipperfield carefully integrates restored buildings with contemporary elements, strategic lighting, visual axes, and clear spatial organization. This approach ensures both orientation and quality of stay for visitors and residents, creating a vibrant environment that houses offices, restaurants, cultural facilities, and generous open spaces. Historical fabric and contemporary usage merge here with elegance and clarity.
For the open spaces, plan.b Landschaftsarchitekten, together with Wirtz International, selected light-colored belgrano® granite. The natural stone forms a striking contrast to the dark brick façades, honors the district’s material tradition, and reflects the long-standing use of natural stone throughout Berlin’s urban environment.
From expansive courtyard pavements to prominent seating blocks and linear path elements, belgrano® granite links historical references with contemporary architectural language to create a timeless whole. The choice of granite serves not only functional purposes but also acts as a design connector, bridging heritage and modernity. Varied surface finishes provide slip resistance and accessibility, ensuring that outdoor spaces remain safe and comfortable even in wet conditions.
The open squares and terraces of the Bötzow Areal encourage social interaction and shared use, whether for leisure or work-related activities. Lunchtime, after-work breaks, or casual meetings take place here in an atmosphere of distinctive charm. The choice of natural stone conveys both robustness and elegance, reinforcing the area’s urban character while establishing a recognizable identity.
At other locations across Prenzlauer Berg and Berlin, belgrano® natural stone similarly creates a compelling dialogue between historic fabric, functionality, and contemporary architecture. At the DSTRCT on Landsberger Allee, historic factory buildings were integrated into modern office and public spaces, while the Choriner Höfe and Kastanienallee 63–64 provide contemporary open areas with a strong urban identity. Beyond these, belgrano® natural stone also defines prominent Berlin landmarks such as the Friedrichstadtpalast and the Charité, designing outdoor spaces that respect historical context while supporting modern use.
The impact of these open spaces goes beyond aesthetics. belgrano® granite is processed with ecological responsibility and distinguished by exceptional durability. This ensures decades of functional use, reduces maintenance needs, and contributes to sustainable urban development.
Find out more about the use and range of applications of natural stone.
Pedestrian zones & city squares
