Grevenbroich

Competition 2024 1st Prize

The “Herkenbuscher Weg” project in Grevenbroich is a sustainable residential quarter with polygonal building structures that allow for high density without compromising the quality of living spaces. The buildings are identical in construction but contain a diverse mix of apartments, promoting a mixed neighborhood. Open loggias, generous setbacks on the upper floors, and a finely structured facade create a small-scale, harmonious architecture.

The construction method combines a stabilizing concrete core with flexible living areas in a skeleton timber construction, ensuring economic efficiency and adaptability. Prefabricated wooden elements with a cladding of durable architectural terracotta allow for quick assembly and minimize maintenance efforts. The building access promotes neighborhood interaction through communal areas, while decentralized bicycle parking spaces and car-free inner courtyards create sustainable mobility solutions.

The outdoor areas preserve large existing trees and offer green quarter courtyards as meeting points. Car parking spaces are concentrated on the narrow sides to keep the inner area free for pedestrians and cyclists. Demolition materials from existing buildings are reused to conserve resources.

Sustainability is at the heart of the concept. The buildings are highly insulated, energy-efficient, and largely made from renewable raw materials. Photovoltaic systems, rainwater management, and a local heating network contribute to the ecological quality. External sun protection and heat-storing components ensure a comfortable living climate. This creates an economical, resource-conserving, and future-oriented quarter with a high quality of life.