A groundbreaking hospitality concept has emerged in Berlin's trendy Neukölln district, where Common operates as both a microbakery during daytime hours and transforms into an intimate pizzeria each evening. Founded by Maximilian Korrenz Lemke and designed by interior architect Thalea Schmalenberg, this innovative hybrid space demonstrates how thoughtful design can support dual business functions within a single location.
The concept for Common draws inspiration from Lemke's diverse experiences across three major European cities - Naples, Copenhagen, and Berlin. This multicultural influence is evident in the venue's approach, which emphasizes traditional baking methods, slow fermentation processes, and a commitment to sourcing ingredients locally. The project successfully merges craft, community engagement, and sophisticated design into one cohesive environment.
During daytime operations, Common functions as a specialized microbakery offering artisanal long-fermented rye bread crafted from two distinct types of rye flour and seven different seeds. The bakery menu also features Scandinavian-inspired cardamom buns and freshly roasted coffee sourced from local Berlin roasters. The emphasis on slow processes and careful ingredient selection creates a sensory experience that highlights the craft of traditional baking.
As evening approaches, the space undergoes a remarkable transformation into a pizzeria centered around slow-fermented sourdough bases. The dinner menu showcases creative seasonal combinations that reflect both local tastes and international influences, including unique offerings like blood sausage with Käsekrainer and Brussels sprouts, or fermented potatoes paired with wild garlic capers. The commitment to local sourcing continues through the evening service, with regionally produced flours and seasonal produce forming the foundation of the culinary offerings.
Schmalenberg's interior design concept masterfully accommodates this daily transformation through strategic use of materials, lighting, and spatial organization. The design employs a sophisticated palette of warm monochrome burgundy shades that create visual continuity while allowing for atmospheric shifts throughout the day. Handcrafted woodwork provides tactile warmth and authenticity, while carefully selected lighting fixtures from renowned Danish and German manufacturers enable the space to adapt its mood from bright and open during bakery hours to intimate and cozy for evening dining.
The flexible design philosophy extends beyond mere aesthetic considerations to encompass functional adaptability. During daylight hours, the interior emphasizes openness and accessibility, allowing the sensory appeal of fresh pastries and bread to take center stage. The layout supports easy movement and interaction, creating an inviting atmosphere for customers seeking morning coffee and baked goods.
As darkness falls, the same space transforms dramatically through strategic lighting adjustments and the natural properties of the chosen materials. The warm monochrome tones become more pronounced, creating an intimate dining environment that encourages longer stays and social interaction. This transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can maximize the utility of urban commercial spaces while maintaining distinct brand identities for different service periods.
The project represents a broader exploration of the connections between culinary tradition, local identity, and sustainable production methods. By focusing on slow fermentation processes, local sourcing, and traditional techniques, Common positions itself as more than just a restaurant or bakery - it becomes a showcase for mindful food production and community engagement.
Common's location at Karl-Marx-Straße 176 in Berlin's diverse Neukölln district reflects the neighborhood's reputation as a hub for innovative culinary and cultural ventures. The venue's dual nature mirrors the dynamic character of the area, where traditional elements blend seamlessly with contemporary innovation. Through its commitment to quality ingredients, thoughtful design, and community connection, Common establishes itself as a significant addition to Berlin's evolving hospitality landscape.
