The second residential ring in Besigheim benefits from its proximity to the historic town center and the railway station—a compelling location. To complete the street perimeter at a corner site while respecting the surrounding context, architect Kai Dongus developed a deceptively clever design: from the street, it reads as a single, narrow volume; from the north and rear, it reveals its true form—three subtly rotated structures that integrate harmoniously with their neighbors. The plastered perforated façades, tiled roof, window proportions, and sandstone-colored trim all reference the surrounding architecture with consistency and restraint. The 3.20-meter setback from the northeastern neighbor aligns with established street distances, preserving both the street edge and natural light on all facades. Entry is accessible at grade level, with a connecting staircase leading along the existing building. Within the three gable-roofed volumes sit seven residences and a ground-floor retail space. The half-story stagger between units creates unexpected spatial richness and intriguing sightlines. The sculptural stairwell opens upward into a generous void, where the rotation of the circulation becomes unmistakably apparent.

A through-passage lift and staircase connect all levels accessibly, ensuring seamless circulation throughout. Apartments are oriented primarily south and west, maximizing natural light and solar gain. A compact three-level unit on the northwest corner benefits from unexpected warmth via a roof loggia. Parking is discreetly positioned in the basement—serving both the new building and the neighboring listed structure—with 12 weather-protected bicycle spaces nearby. The building's passageway creates barrier-free access to the adjacent green space, designated for the required community playground. The result is a compact, luminous ensemble that honors the block's historic character while asserting a distinctly contemporary identity through spatial refinement and meticulous detailing.

www.dongus.com

Photography:
Dietmar Srauß

www.dietmar-strauss.de

(Published in CUBE Stuttgart 04|25)