Buildings from the 1950s were typically constructed rapidly—a response to the pressing postwar shortage of housing and workspace and the economic boom that followed. These modernist structures, built from reinforced concrete with their distinctive gridded façades, embodied both efficiency and flexible design. The Zinzendorf House, positioned just steps from Cologne Cathedral, exemplifies these same qualities. So when the Protestant Church Association of Cologne and Region—the building's owner—found its office tower sitting vacant, they envisioned something new. Something aligned with Diakonie's mission. Working with Bergblau architects, they reimagined the building as residential housing, creating a place where refugees can build new lives.

Though unprotected by heritage listing, both developer and architects were committed to preserving the building's distinctive character. After thorough cleaning, the façade—with its exposed steel I-beams, travertine-clad concrete supports, and raw brickwork—regains its original presence. Dark anthracite window frames, doors, and parapets accentuate these heritage elements, while travertine and dark steel continue this narrative indoors. The architects retained the original staircase with its refined balusters, supplementing them with newly fabricated steel infill panels. "Our goal was to let residents and visitors experience the architectural language of the era," explains architect Hadi Hand.

Inside, the transformation becomes tangible: a former office building reimagined as generous residential space. The original compartmentalized layout was completely stripped away, leaving only the structural frame—a blank canvas for new possibilities. The ground floor now houses one apartment alongside spaces for childcare, social services, and security. Above, twelve additional units offer two, three, or four rooms, welcoming families, couples, and individuals. The restrained dark fixtures add to this sense of openness, creating room to breathe. Where desks once stood, life now unfolds.

www.bergblau.com

Photography Credits:

Axel Hartmann

(From CUBE Cologne Bonn 01|20)