Living with city flair instead of shopping
Retail-Transition in the 'City C' in Leverkusen
A building complex in the city center with vacant commercial spaces from the 1960s is transformed into a lively residential oasis with versatile green areas. Our urban design was awarded with recognition.
The aging structure and high vacancy rates of the retail spaces were the catalyst for the redevelopment of 'City C.' The competition focused on creating new residential and open space structures by dismantling individual commercial units. Our design transforms the old shopping arcade into a sustainable, flexibly usable, and inclusive residential district. It fosters a diverse community and enhances the urban quality of the neighborhood.
“Sharp Edges, Soft Center”
Our focus was on compact construction: this allowed us to efficiently utilize the existing space and provide residents with high living quality. Urban planning considerations took into account the existing spatial axes and building facades, resulting in a harmonious integration into the surroundings. Building heights and facade designs intentionally vary to create individual houses with a distinct character. The architectural concept follows the principle of clearly defined, solid building edges outward and a soft, diverse inner courtyard that can be used in various ways. This creates a dialogue between the structure and the surrounding 'City C,' while simultaneously opening up a new 'inner world' for the residents.
Loggias shape the outer facades, balconies are oriented towards the inner courtyard. This courtyard, in turn, is shielded from public areas by the arrangement of the new building ensemble, giving it a quieter, more private character.
Andres Peña Gomez
Architect and Head of Design in Frankfurt
Open Spaces for the City and Residents
The landscaping enables versatile zones for encounter, relaxation, retreat, and resilience. The new "marketplace" forms an urban center, a green axis connects the neighborhood with the city. The semi-public courtyard becomes a quiet, green oasis for the residents. Even the roof areas are transformed into productive, usable open spaces.
Publicly accessible areas provide space for urban gardening, fitness, and play areas, while private rooftop terraces with pergolas offer residents protected retreat options at lofty heights. This differentiated use maximizes the quality of stay on different levels.
Dimitra Theochari
Architect, Landscape Architect, Managing Director ensphere
More Comfort, Less Consumption
The design for the revitalization meets the Passive House standard. The highly insulated building envelope, along with triple glazing, minimizes energy consumption, while the large photovoltaic system provides renewable energy. The material concept relies on ecological building materials made from renewable resources to reduce the CO₂ footprint. Natural lighting and operable windows in all living spaces for controlled air quality enhance the quality of stay.
