Christ & Gantenbein . photos: © Stefano Graziani
Located in the Maxvorstadt district, the Westhof Housing building is a key element in the repurposing of the listed parcel distribution complex built in 1926 after plans by Robert Vorhölzer and Walther Schmidt. The existing complex is characterized by the juxtaposition of the external wings’ rational traditionalism with the expressive functionalism of the three buildings they enclose – the latter featuring clear concrete load-bearing structures and generous glazing. The new building embraces the design and structural principles of these functional precedents, becoming part of the ensemble while accommodating attractive living spaces, a use previously not included in the complex.
A condominium with 81 apartments, the new building stretches from wing to wing, dividing the western court into an inner, private courtyard and a forecourt open onto the adjoining street. Westhof Housing is a modern, open building with an unspecific load-bearing structure that can flexibly accommodate different residential typologies: broader, deeper, and more affordable apartments on the ground floor and on the courtyard floors, and narrower, lighter apartments on the upper floors offering captivating views of the city.
The integration of the new 7-floor building with the existing context is realized through defining architectural features: clad in light clinker bricks, the façade expresses the building’s load-bearing structure, while its large windows are a direct quote of its historical counterparts. Referencing the roof lantern of the parcel hall, the slight bevel of the building’s four upper floors produces density while maintaining the best lighting conditions in the courtyard. This functional feature lends the structure its unique physiognomy and distinct physicality.
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LOCATION
Munich, Germany
CLIENT
Pandion Real Estate, Germany
TEAM
Emanuel Christ, Christoph Gantenbein; Tabea Lachenmann; Christina Wendler, Petra Jossen; Christina Köchling, Lucas Schrader, Mariana Silva, Qian Sun, Kai Timmermann, Jean Wagner, Diana Zenklusen
PLANNING
Sellack Archittekten und Ingenieure, BZB Zeitler, Blaimberger Architekten, Sellack Architekten und Ingenieure, Hörmann + Bosch, Mathias Wolf Landschaftsarchitekt, BDKplan, Kurz und Fischer
