Fresh air in historic buildings with LUNOS

Monument protection meets modern ventilation technology: fresh air for Potsdam's historic imperial villa

How do you modernise a historic gem without destroying the charm of bygone eras? This was the question posed during the renovation of the magnificent Imperial Villa in Potsdam. The result shows that monument preservation and state-of-the-art ventilation technology are not mutually exclusive, but rather a dream team when properly planned.

 

 

In collaboration with ENTWICKLUNGSSTADT, we took a closer look at this exciting project. In a video interview, our technical director, Michael Merscher, provides exclusive insights into the technical implementation.

 

Decentralised ventilation: the ideal solution for renovation

Decentralised ventilation really comes into its own when modernising existing buildings, whether they are listed buildings or classic old buildings. While centralised systems often require space-consuming duct systems and suspended ceilings, decentralised systems can be integrated flexibly and without major construction work directly into the exterior wall.

Why decentralised systems are the first choice for retrofitting:

• Easy installation: Installation is carried out via a simple core drilling in the exterior wall. There is no need to lay metres of ventilation pipes throughout the building.
• Preservation of room height: Since there are no massive pipes running under the ceiling, the original aesthetics and room height (especially important in old buildings with stucco!) are fully preserved.
• Step-by-step implementation: Renovations can be carried out room by room or flat by flat – ideal for occupied properties.
• Moisture protection & building fabric: After energy-efficient renovation (new windows, insulation), natural air exchange is often interrupted. Decentralised ventilators prevent mould growth and thus protect the value of the property in the long term.

 

The challenge in Potsdam: invisible efficiency

We took advantage of precisely these benefits at the Kaiservilla, which now houses ten exclusive residential units. Major alterations to the building fabric were out of the question. The solution lay in a combined system:

• Systematic heat recovery: The use of our e² series enabled fresh air with minimal heat loss – essential for the energy balance.
• Intelligent exhaust air: In the functional rooms, Silvento ec fans ensure air exchange according to demand.
• Minimal intervention: Thanks to the decentralised design, the number of pipes and cables could be reduced to an absolute minimum, thus preserving the historical fabric of the building.

 

Focus on sound insulation and comfort

In addition to the visual appearance, living comfort played a decisive role. Especially in high-quality renovation projects such as the Kaiservilla, peace and quiet is a luxury. In an interview, Michael Merscher explains how we used targeted planning to ensure that the technology works efficiently but is practically inaudible in everyday life.

The Kaiservilla shows that monument protection and modern building technology are not mutually exclusive, but can be combined into a coherent overall concept with careful planning.