In the vibrant Ehrenfeld district, architect Thomas Michael from Cologne has transformed the former Veralux lighting factory into a distinctive mixed-use ensemble: three restored heritage buildings and one new structure. His vision was clear—seamlessly blend residential living, creative workspaces, and shared dining experiences. Centered around a mature tree-lined courtyard that's also home to an active bee colony, the "Lichthof" serves as both residence and workplace for roughly 50 people, complete with shared community spaces that belong to everyone.

The project began with the renovation of existing pre-war buildings on a site acquired in 2017, encompassing over 1,100 m² of usable floor space. Starting in 2021, a corner lot on Lichtstraße—created through strategic demolition—was developed with a six-story building adding another 1,100 m² of usable space. Along the street frontage, the structure completes the existing perimeter block with a distinctive double setback crown floor. The architectural expression becomes even more dynamic along an adjacent secondary street, where the six-story volume steps back progressively from the second floor upward, creating a striking accent that is particularly prominent when viewed from the neighboring Live Music Hall. The underlying design philosophy centers on crafting a deliberately restrained yet playfully sophisticated building whose flexible, open spaces serve a diverse range of users and functions. Beyond commercial areas—accommodating up to three tenants per floor—the building features two residential levels with wraparound terraces on the upper floors. The ground floor, providing access to the courtyard, is entirely dedicated to shared community functions: a communal kitchen for informal breaks and event hosting, a workshop space accessible to all users, and a courtyard that transforms into an open-air cinema during summer months—when not inhabited by an active beehive community.

Considerable design effort went into preserving the mature black locust tree—the verdant heart of the courtyard. Sustainability was woven throughout: vegetated roofs and strategically planted façade sections enhance the urban microclimate, while rainwater infiltration systems and cisterns work alongside a rooftop PV array that powers all upper-story electricity needs entirely. The design flourishes continue on the terraces, where 120 meters of planted boxes—each hosting over 60 species—function as both sculptural elements and fall protection. Inside, raw exposed concrete dominates the material palette, a deliberate nod to Ehrenfeld's industrial heritage, reinforced by graffiti on the fire wall. Outside, the façade is finished with grey broom-struck plaster embedded with glass particles—a subtle touch that makes the entire structure shimmer and catch light, day and night.

www.mpmbh.de

Photography:
Axel Hartmann
www.ah-fotografie.de

(Published in CUBE Cologne Bonn 03|23)