Housing is in short supply in Cologne's affluent suburbs. A new residential complex in the neighbouring town of Frechen to the west helps fill this gap. Located at the corner of Toni-Ooms-Straße and Alfred-Nobel-Straße—a prime, well-connected address—the development spans 5,500 m² and comprises five to six-storey apartment buildings arranged in a perimeter block configuration. Integrated within the complex are a five-classroom daycare centre and an underground parking garage.

​The development stands out for its clean, contemporary cubic architecture. Built with solid construction and flat roofs, the GWG Rhein-Erft housing association's design features a sophisticated mix of clinker brick, render, and curtain wall facades. The new neighbourhood contains 82 residences suited to single occupants, couples, and families—with particular emphasis on units designed for larger households. The 82 flats range from 38 to 107 m², with over half receiving public funding. Inside, quality and modern aesthetics define the experience. The thoughtfully proportioned units feature oak-design vinyl flooring in living areas and ceramic tiles in kitchens. Bathrooms showcase white wall tile work, terracotta ceramic flooring, accessible showers or tubs, premium fixtures, wall-mounted toilets with contemporary lines and extended reach, and heated towel bars. Every rental unit includes spacious balconies or terraces with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows; ground-floor residents enjoy private gardens, while upper-floor residents have access to roof terraces. Eight elevators ensure barrier-free access throughout. Residents benefit from 76 underground parking spaces and 82 storage rooms. The courtyard provides ample space for community life and relaxation, encompassing the daycare's outdoor area, resident gardens, and a dedicated play zone.

The complex is heated via a combined heat and power plant. "We're proud that our Toni-Ooms-Straße project delivers not only outstanding residential spaces but also eases the critical shortage of childcare in Frechen through its integrated daycare facility," says Klaus Pelzer, Managing Director of GWG Rhein-Erft. Mayor Susanne Stupp adds: "This location was crying out for both quality housing and educational childcare—and now it has both." Planning began in 2017, with ground-breaking in 2020 and completion in the fourth quarter of 2023.

www.gwg-rhein-erft.de

Photography:
Stephan Brendgen Fotodesign
www.stephanbrendgen.de

(Published in CUBE Cologne 03|24)