This unassuming structure has stood on the Neckar's bank since the 16th century—a relic of the mill that once operated here. For the past several months, though set back by newer development around it, it has been drawing increasingly curious eyes. Yet the real marvel isn't the shed itself, which admittedly needs restoration, but the striking modern tower beside it, which climbs 8.60 metres skyward.

The tower's steel-and-aluminium construction immediately captures attention: floor-to-ceiling windows embrace the water views, while a dynamic design unfolds through layered textures and varied surfaces. So what inspired this unusual pairing of old and new? Owner Toby Sichert explains: "I was fascinated by this spot as a child—where the Neckar creates a waterfall-like current right in the city centre. When the chance came to buy it, I grabbed it. My mission was to awaken this sleeping beauty." The adjacent five-by-five-metre plot needed purposeful use too. The tower concept first emerged from the owner's imagination, sketched into reality by his own hand. Then, quite serendipitously, he connected with a Croatian steel fabricator—and the visionary "DQTower" project (DQ: Design and Quality) came alive. Tiny houses are having a moment; why not a "tiny tower"? Architect Dominik Burkard joined the venture, refining the designs to meet German building codes. The tower qualifies as building class one under state regulations, enabling a streamlined approval process. Fire safety mandates an escape route—in this case, a secondary exit to the adjacent structure, scheduled for renovation. The water-facing entrance is reached via a small footbridge with integrated seating. Inside, the tower surprises with its spaciousness despite its modest 4.20-by-4-metre footprint. Across three storeys, the upper levels offer two bedrooms—one with a double bed, one with a single—both opening toward the Neckar, plus two baths featuring rainfall showers and considered design details. The subtly mirrored panoramic window in the penthouse bedroom creates an extraordinary sense of place. The ground-floor living area ingeniously integrates the staircase, transforming the modern steel structure into a sculptural design element. Here, a lounge flows into a dining zone with built-in kitchenette and powder room. Built using modular construction, the entire tower—complete with custom interiors—was assembled in just two days atop a platform with water and electrical hookups. Should the owner ever wish, it can be dismantled and relocated. A parking space and bamboo-screened seating area complete this compelling dialogue between heritage and contemporary design.

www.dqtower.de

Photography Credits:

Katja Wickert
www.www.katja-wickert.de

(Published in CUBE Stuttgart 02|23)