Architectural office GRAFT: extra class & future – company

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New prestigious properties are currently being built, as described in the introduction, for example for E.ON and Volocopter. For E.ON GRAFT builds at the new, large E-car charging network and designs charging stations. Another project with a great future is Volocopter, one of the first air cabs that will soon conquer metropolises worldwide. In Germany, too, air cabs are soon to take up their first test flights. But, before we take a look at individual objects from GRAFT, here’s a brief look at the company:

History, founders and establishment in LA

The architecture firm GRAFT was founded by Lars Krückeberg, Wolfram Putz and Thomas Willemeint in Los Angeles, back in 1998. Since then, many flagship projects have been built, especially in Berlin. These include, for example, the KU64 and the BRLO, here in Berlin.

Behind every great undertaking is a higher goal. For GRAFT Architekturbüro, it is said that it was founded as a label for architecture, urban planning, design, music and “the pursuit of happiness,” as it says on the architects’ website.

“the pursuit of happiness”

The founders Lars Krückeberg, Wolfram Putz and Thomas Willemeint, have GRAFT now expanded to over 150 employees, 3 of them even in Beijing. Thus GRAFT is already in the future market: China. While airports in Germany have gladly times 10 years building time, one realizes airports here 3x so largely, in 10 months building time.

Tip: Read more about Investing in China (real estate).

Interior Architecture:

Building to the heights:

Architecture firm at a glance

GRAFT company at a glance:

• Founders: Lars Krückeberg, Wolfram Putz, and Thomas Willemeint
• Founded: 1998
• Founding location: Los Angeles, California (USA)
• Headquarters: 3 continents
• Employees: 150 (as of 2021)
• Projects (new): E.ON charging stations, Volocopter

Graft about itself:

“We refuse the traditional, virtual and real boundaries in the world of work and are thus able to offer more opportunities and an ever-expanding range of solutions in our work.”

Source: graftlab.com

Awards and prizes

In 2015 alone, it rained awards, including the “Red Dot Design Award, Communication Design, Visualization for Objekt Carpet”, but also the “Iconic Award 2016, Interior Innovation, CAELA Lighting System”. The last year, with official list can currently be found from 2019. Here is a small excerpt, with other prizes and awards won by GRAFT architecture office.

Awards and prizes, excerpt 2019:

• Award German Housing, Paragon Apartments, 1st prize
• Iconic Awards 2019: Innovative Architecture, Natureisstadion Schierke, Winner
• German Design Award 2019, Natureisstadion Schierke, Special Mention

Graft in Berlin: Tour & Architecture

Let’s start a little city tour, through the districts of Berlin, or two locations with GRAFT villas.

Villa M in Grunewald: boulder, spaceship – unique

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One of the GRAFT designer villas, you can take a drive through Berlin Grunewald, one of the most exclusive districts in Berlin, visit yourself. About this property was also already reported in many, renowned real estate magazines.

In fact, compared to the others, the property is very eye-catching, because very futuristic. The property itself was built with ceramic tiles that were specially made by a company in Potsdam, so each one is truly unique.

From a distance, it looks like a boulder thrown into the plot. The geometric shape, probably makes this villa particularly interesting for men. It reminds both of the erratic block, and of a spaceship. In fact, that’s what architecture is all about:

Not just living, being! Inspiring architecture

GRAFT Villa M is a real statement in Berlin Grunewald. The object fits into the typical Berlin image, straight surfaces, facades, white walls and paints. For anyone who wants to “stand out from the crowd here”, a real investment in unique architecture.

Villa M – frontal view of the object:

Villa M – View from the garden / plot:

Villa in Inselstrasse: Hollywood star as builder

Even more imposing than Villa M in Berlin-Grunewald, however, is a property on Inselstraße. One of the most exclusive spots in Berlin, no 40 properties, private island. Here lives so to speak (also) the Who-is-Who of the Berlin economy. We do not want to name names out of discretion.

More precisely on Schwanenwerder Island, this unusual luxury villa with guest house, boathouse and over 1,000 square meters of living space, plus 10,000 square meters of land. The property here is reminiscent of a runway, extremely imposing, large, long and extends to the lake. Like the villa in Berlin-Grunewald, it stands out completely from the rest of the villas and estates in Inselstraße. No other property is so modern.

The original builder of this imposing villa (Brad Pitt), but then did not move in himself.

The villa, below the wall is water (lake), by the way:

Image credits: Wikipedia / Fridolin freudenfett (Peter Kuley), CC BY-SA 3.0

Location in Berlin:

“Charly Living”: neighborhood at Checkpoint Charlie

There are imposing buildings in the residential sector, including mixed-use properties, for example, in the middle of Berlin at Checkpoint Charlie. This quarter is home to hundreds of residential units. Thus, it is not only an architectural highlight in Berlin-Mitte, but also a place of residence for a great many people. Thus, the architectural office shows that concepts implemented in villas can also be applied in residential construction.

Still, we’re still on the “smaller” projects that the architecture firm is doing.

Future architecture: E.ON, Volocopter & Co.

GRAFT Architect will continue to set absolute standards in the future. Two absolutely distinguishing projects are currently, for example, E.ON and Volocopter.

For E.ON, the architecture firm is currently developing a wide variety of charging stations in a wide variety of environments. In the middle of the Frankfurt skyline, between skyscrapers and banks, in the countryside, right next to the highway, virtually everywhere. A complete charging infrastructure for e-cars is to be created. This will give electric car mobility in Germany a boost and thus also open up a completely new area for GRAFT, in which they are once again pioneers.

Another very interesting project, are the ports GRAFT is currently developing for the air cab provider Volocopter. Volocopter will be the first air cab in Germany and is expected to start activity in a very short time, or rather test it for the time being. The architecture firm won the competition for this worldwide project and is now developing concepts that will enable future air cabs to land on various terraces. This will then include, for example, the typical skyscraper (in Frankfurt) that can be found in any major city. Likewise, ports are built that can be used in harbors (as in Hamburg), meaning they float on water.

That was a little insight, into the work of Graft. Founded in 1998, the architectural firm has over 20 years of experience combined together, with three founders and entrepreneurs. More about the company can be found here: GRAFT Lab.

Please note, this article is written with a focus toward the German market, but very similar rules apply everywhere.

Building Project: High Energy Prices Make Changeover Easy

With Lukinski at your side, it takes only a few steps to your own home. We support you in buying real estate or find suitable prospective buyers for your new building project. Would you like to get in during the construction phase or would you like to join us? Lukinski is your competent partner in all real estate questions. Throughout Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate we are well informed about large and small new building projects. Should your future home be particularly child-friendly or have extremely convenient transport connections? Write to us so that we can present suitable projects to you.

With high additional costs, many tenants are considering a new building project. The new building projects are equipped with the most modern technical heating and water supply systems, which reduces the additional costs. Environmental protection and sustainability are also very important for many projects. In your new home you should feel comfortable and at the same time be able to show consideration for the environment.

Free standing or row housing?

All designs have their advantages. A row house convinces with a particularly favorable square meter price, the free-standing single or multi-family house with much garden and clearance for new ideas. If you are looking for a condominium, we have numerous very attractive new building projects on offer. Close to the city, downtown locations or in the bacon belt – we will find the right apartment for you.

Real estate as capital investment: special

• Part 1: Classical or exotic investment – Which real estate is suitable as capital investment?
• Part 2: Real estate as capital investment – What do I have to pay attention to?

Developer: Exclusive Network

Apartment building: Modernization

Prefabricated elements: Prefabricated house made of elements

New construction of apartment buildings and commercial units: Land development

Construction Financing: Comparison and Tips

An important and for many building owners tricky question is the construction financing. Almost everyone who wants to buy or build a property has to use borrowed funds. Thus the real estate financing stands in the room, with which we can advise you however comprehensively and seriously. In any case it is worthwhile to obtain offers from several banks. The calculation of the individual options is crucial, but the offers cannot always be compared at first glance. Our experts are also available to provide you with advice and support for long-term and successful real estate financing. Trust in Lukinski!

Once the right new construction project is considered, a suitable credit institution must ensure the long-term and sustainable financing. The be-all and end-all when buying real estate or building a house is the financing. The right construction financing is viable and can be operated in the long term. New construction projects are basically objects that credit institutions are happy to finance. The building fabric is good and the location is usually promising. New construction projects are usually also suitable as an investment or retirement provision. Often their price increases, as does the demand in the region. In addition, there are various state subsidies to make it easier for citizens to create property. These include the KFW loans from the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (Reconstruction Loan Corporation), but regional grants from municipalities and states are also possible. The focus of our expertise lies in the regions of Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate. Therefore, we are also familiar with the regional differences and many of the funding opportunities in rural and urban areas.

Questions for the professionals – Building description and the house type

Make sure to have the building specifications of the new building project checked by an expert. It regulates which services the contractor has to provide. The specifications should neither be vaguely formulated nor should they be too expensive. Services that are not part of the building description can be associated with high additional costs as well as construction delays. It is advisable to have the building specifications checked by a third party. Please contact us if you need help with this. It is also worth taking a look at the building specifications for the construction method. Is it a solid construction, a wooden house or a prefabricated construction. Each type of house and building has its special characteristics, which must fit the buyer.

Also as capital investment the new building real estates become ever more popular. The high level of equipment and building substance, together with an excellent residential area promise a long-term increase in value. The tax burden is reduced for new building projects and in many cases there is also financial support from the state and local authorities. New building projects are designed with increased security aspects in mind, so that high returns can be achieved in the long term.

Urban Planning Creates Space for New Construction Projects

The increasing population growth is being absorbed by the conurbations with the corresponding urban planning. The target groups sought by the municipalities can differ significantly for each new construction project. Nursing home places will be created that fall into the category of social housing. The allocation is usually made by offices and authorities.

Ambitious new construction projects, on the other hand, pursue a social policy to enable fellow citizens with low incomes to live in a central location. In some cases, the city also provides favorable loans for such properties.

Upscale new construction projects are often located in selected residential areas of the city or directly in the city center. They may well be luxury housing estates, with spectacularly designed and high-priced fittings.

New Construction Projects in Outlying Districts

With the increasing transport connections and also with a view to the increased creation of home jobs, it is worthwhile looking for low-cost new building projects in rural areas or in the outskirts of the city. The purchase prices per square meter of living space are usually significantly lower than in the densely built-up and central districts of the city. However, it is precisely this advantageous offer that is hotly contested by buyers. Let us know your ideas so that we can present you with suitable new building projects.

In addition to the significantly lower land prices, the new construction projects on the outskirts of the city offer further advantages. With the distance to the conurbation, the unspoiled nature increases. Adjoining lakes and rivers can be paddled and swum through, and the range of leisure activities on offer is increasingly being expanded. The medical sector is also adapting to the increased demand from senior citizens. Delivery services and home support are well integrated in many rural areas.

Infrastructure was Yesterday

Although proximity to the city is still the preferred residential district, employers are creating new opportunities for housing through decentralization and the creation of home offices. At the same time, excellent public transport connections are being created, and existing routes are increasingly being expanded. The less frequently people have to travel to the city for work and shopping, the more attractive locations in the surrounding area become. Smaller cities often score well with a more affordable supply of living space, but even more so are the extensive leisure facilities, the surrounding nature and good schools that attract homeowners. Lukinski’s new building projects in the countryside are also interesting for senior citizens. They offer peace and quiet and the possibility for walks. Excellent local hospitals and medical support characterize many rural regions in Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate. There are many good reasons for choosing peripheral locations – not only in old age. Allow yourself sufficient time when choosing your new building project. Check the offers of Lukinski – your house sale, so that you can discover the perfect home for yourself. We will gladly help you and make appropriate suggestions.

Exactly right: new building projects for your taste

Your new building projects are as diverse as the developers and investors. The conventional standards have long been abandoned, even architecturally prepared. Great importance is attached in many places to environmentally friendly and sustainable construction. Modern heating technology, electricity and water supply are much sought after by prospective buyers. The offer is available and can be integrated both in new building projects in country house style and in modern constructions with glass facades. Stone floors and bathrooms clad with natural stone are in trend. Buyers often prefer higher quality fittings to a location close to the city.

Architecture Planning

Practical work: Project development and property developer

With Lukinski to your new home

Have we aroused your interest? Then send us a short message so that we can discuss your new building project for the first time. We would be pleased to send you informative exposés on the available new building projects. In many residential projects, houses and apartments are built in a wide variety of sizes and with a variety of features. Contact Lukinski with confidence to discover the perfect form of living.

The layout of the rooms in the new building projects is also designed to suit every form of living – whether single or family, you will feel at home in the new building project. If you wish a balcony or a first floor apartment with terrace – our experts from Lukinski – Lukinski will be happy to send you a meaningful exposé. We are looking forward to your message!

Buying an apartment building: Valuation & investment

Compared to single-family homes and condominiums, multi-family homes offer greater investment stability. With several residential units, you spread the risk of rent losses and benefit from a continuous cash flow. However, it is important that you have the property professionally valued so that you neither buy too expensively nor overlook hidden risks.

PS: First investment? Here are 4 tips for your first investment with video.

Real estate valuation: What is important?

The valuation of a property is not only based on square meters and year of construction. Factors such as location (macro and micro), energy status, condition of the roof, pipes and heating, as well as rental contracts, vacancies and development potential are decisive. A rough online estimate is not enough here – it is better to have a valuation report drawn up or use professional valuation models with comparable properties.

• Valuate property

Reminder! Location, annual net cold rent + purchase price: This is how you can quickly evaluate an apartment building.

Recognize value enhancement & exploit potential

Are you looking for properties with development opportunities? Then look out for attics that can be converted, vacant properties that can be renovated or properties with potential for redensification. Converting to modern heating systems or adding balconies can also significantly increase the value. The decisive factor is cost-effectiveness: calculate each measure and compare it with the potential increase in rent or value.

Relationship between price, location and yield

In sought-after locations(A-locations, good B-locations), the purchase price is higher and the rental yield is usually lower. In structurally weak regions, you pay less – but also with a higher vacancy risk. The optimal balance lies in growing medium-sized cities with good infrastructure, stable demand and moderate prices. Pay attention to micro-location, transport links and demographics.

• A, B and C position

Calculate rental yield & value correctly

The gross rental yield shows you what percentage of the purchase price you will achieve annually through rental income. It is calculated very simply: annual net cold rent divided by the purchase price, multiplied by 100. A solid gross yield for apartment buildings is between 6 and 9 percent – lower in prime locations and often higher in structurally weak areas. But be careful: a high yield in a poor location can be deceptive if resale is problematic.

Annual net rent ÷ purchase price × 100 = gross rental yield

• Rental yield vs purchase price factor

Refurbishment property or fully let?

Refurbish & re-let

Buying a house in need of renovation can be worthwhile – if the location and substance are right. If you renovate efficiently, you can then rent it out again – at higher prices and to modern standards. In the case of vacant properties, make sure that there are no tenancies and find out about the renovation costs and possible subsidies in advance.

Fully let properties: Security & immediate income

A property that is already fully let generates income from day one. You should check all rental agreements here: Term, rent amount, indexation, graduated rents, notice periods. You should also ask for the tenants’ payment history. A mixed tenant structure without rent arrears is ideal.

Important: Tenancy law & limits of termination

You cannot give notice or raise the rent at will. Terminations are only permitted for personal use or breach of duty. Rent increases are limited by law – additional regulations apply in regions with rent control. Refurbishment costs may only be apportioned proportionately. Plan these aspects carefully.

Purchase contract & legal basis

Notary & contract review

The purchase contract is drawn up by the notary and must be notarized. The notary acts as a neutral third party and ensures that all legal conditions are met. You will receive a draft contract in advance, which you should check with your advisor or lawyer. At the notarization appointment, the contract is read aloud and any unanswered questions are clarified.

Land register, transfer of ownership & priority notice of conveyance

With the notarization, the purchase is legally binding – but you are not yet the owner. The transfer of ownership only takes place with the entry in the land register. Before this, a so-called priority notice of conveyance is entered to secure you. Prerequisite: The purchase price must be paid and the land transfer tax paid.

• Real estate purchase agreement

Taxes & ancillary purchase costs at a glance

Real estate transfer tax & ancillary costs

When buying a property, there are additional costs on top of the purchase price: Land transfer tax, notary fees, entry in the land register and, if applicable, estate agent’s commission. Depending on the federal state, these amount to 10 to 15 percent of the purchase price and usually have to be paid from equity. Sound financial planning takes these items into account from the outset.

• Real estate transfer tax

Real estate GmbH & family foundation

For larger portfolios, it is worth structuring via an asset-managing GmbH or a family foundation. This allows you to benefit from tax advantages – for example in the event of inheritance or sale after the speculation period. However, the establishment and ongoing administration require good tax and legal advice.

• Real Estate Ltd.
• Family foundation

Letting: Tenants, contracts & income

Successful letting starts with selecting the right tenants. In addition to creditworthiness and credit rating, personal impressions are also important. A clear, legally secure rental agreement protects both parties. The rent is based on the rent index, but must also match the furnishings and location. Pay attention to mandatory details such as operating costs, house rules, notice periods and rent adjustment clauses.

• Renting out a house & apartment

Conclusion: Strategy for success

An apartment building is not a short-term deal – it is a long-term investment that needs to be well planned. Anyone who knows the market, calculates the right key figures and strives for a legally compliant transaction will create a stable source of income and increase their assets in the long term. Take advantage of professional advice – for valuation, purchase, refurbishment or letting. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure long-term success.