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Potsdam's Kaiser Villa blends modern ventilation with historic preservation

How did a 19th-century villa get 21st-century air quality without losing its charm? Engineers cracked the code—silently and invisibly. The solution balances cutting-edge tech with untouchable façades, setting a precedent for historic buildings everywhere.

The image shows an old building with many windows and balconies, each with air conditioners...
The image shows an old building with many windows and balconies, each with air conditioners attached to the walls. The windows are framed by railings, giving the building a classic and timeless look.

Potsdam's Kaiser Villa blends modern ventilation with historic preservation

A listed building in Potsdam has successfully incorporated modern ventilation technology without altering its historic character. The Kaiser Villa now features a controlled residential system with heat recovery, balancing energy efficiency and heritage protection. The project highlights the challenges of upgrading older structures with delicate façades.

The ventilation system at the Kaiser Villa relies on decentralised units. LUNOS installed the e2 ventilation module with heat recovery alongside Silvento ec fans. These components were chosen to fit the building's existing structure while maintaining energy standards.

Planning such a system in a protected property required careful coordination. Michael Merscher, LUNOS' technical director, explained the need for precise technical and structural adjustments. Key considerations included sound insulation, energy performance, maintenance access, and ease of use for residents.

Heritage buildings often present difficulties when integrating new technology. The villa's fragile façade and conservation rules demanded solutions that avoided invasive modifications. The final design ensures the system operates efficiently while preserving the site's historical integrity.

The Kaiser Villa project demonstrates that modern ventilation can work within heritage constraints. The installed system meets energy efficiency goals without visible changes to the building's exterior. No long-term performance data or certifications have been released, but the approach offers a model for similar upgrades in protected properties.

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