A pair of semi-detached homes from a 1920s terraced estate needed to be unified, energy-retrofitted, and reimagined for modern aging-in-place living. Wahn Architekten from Rösrath approached the renovation with thoughtful restraint, honoring the existing fabric while creating architecture that feels both understated and timeless. The result respects the historic settlement's distinctive character while fully meeting today's standards and expectations.

When the neighboring semi-detached unit came on the market, the owners seized the opportunity to purchase it and merge both homes into one accessible, future-ready residence. The ground floor now flows seamlessly between the two original halves, with barrier-free access to a newly created garden terrace. A thoughtfully placed ceiling opening—closed with a walk-on glass panel—anticipates a future lift installation while creating an elegant spatial interplay: shelves positioned above and below frame the glass as though reflecting the room itself. The façade treatment reveals the same careful hand: rather than conventional thermal insulation systems, the existing rough plaster was preserved, with insulation installed discreetly between the wall layers. The existing garden extension was enlarged and clad in timber—a material choice that clearly distinguishes it from the plaster without competing for attention. Similarly, two individual dormers were consolidated into one. The extension's generous windows, crafted in wood and subtly detailed, echo the proportions of the original openings. Inside, this restrained aesthetic persists: crisp white plaster walls pair with pine floorboards—some reclaimed and restored, others newly laid. Opening partition walls and removing the original staircase created flowing spatial connections throughout the expanded half. A remarkable detail emerges on the top floor: the original chimney was exposed and now stands as a sculptural element, physically and symbolically bridging the two halves. This project demonstrates how quiet craftsmanship and genuine respect for what exists can generate truly contemporary architecture. Without turning the settlement home into a museum piece, it proves that present-day living and historical integrity can not only coexist—they can enhance one another.

www.wahnarchitekten.de

Photography:
Ulla Franke
www.ullafranke-foto.de

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 03|25)