Few projects capture the transformation of the Ruhr region quite like Phoenix Lake in Dortmund. This 24-hectare artificial lake sits within the approximately 96-hectare grounds of the former Hermannshütte steelworks in Hörde—a flagship project that's reshaping the entire region. Its shores now pulse with residential, office, and leisure activities, attracting companies seeking a vibrant, forward-thinking location. The transformation is far from finished, as evidenced by Kontor am Kai, completed by Dortmund-based construction firm Freundlieb Bauunternehmung in 2019.

Kontor am Kai is an office and commercial building strategically positioned between historic Dortmund-Hörde and the lake's edge. The castle square—bordered by the harbour, Tull Villa, the historic castle, and Kontor am Kai—serves as the vital connector tying these elements together. Architects Kleihues + Kleihues honoured this role by mirroring the castle's character through prominent risalits that punctuate the façade. The building integrates seamlessly with its urban context while anchoring the future harbour quarter with striking architectural presence. A distinctive comb structure creates two intimate courtyards on the street side, organising access throughout. Three distinctive wings clad in light, sand-coloured limestone—reminiscent of stylised turrets—slice through the water-facing structure. Staggered as they rise, their generous glazing imparts an airy quality. This ethereal treatment contrasts deliberately with the anthracite metal-glass façade and its bold, pronounced frames.

Management consultancy KPS anchors the project as lead tenant, occupying most of the flexibly configurable office floors plus ground-level space. The brief was clear: offices, meeting areas, an innovation campus, and dedicated quiet zones for creative collaboration—all aligned with New Work principles. Two state-of-the-art design centres on the ground floor feature sophisticated media technology for client engagement. Rooftop lounges on both terraces offer employees respite, shaded by two expansive 80 m² sails during summer months. The ground floor also hosts two retail and dining concepts with outdoor seating. Extensive parking and dedicated e-mobility charging stations—both underground and accessible—complete the package.

www.kleihues.com
www.freundlieb.de

Photography Credits:

Alexander Ludwig Obst & Marion Schmieding

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 01|20)