Eastern HafenCity brings together seniors, students, apprentices, singles, couples, and families in a true intergenerational neighbourhood. The development includes 155 publicly subsidised apartments across two funding tiers (€6.60/m² and €8.70/m²)—52 units designed for older residents, 36 for people with disabilities or care needs, 138 student and apprentice apartments at €241 monthly, plus 80 income-based units capped at €14/m².

These two residential buildings, with retail on the ground floor, come from Berlin-based architect Max Dudler and form part of a six-house ensemble. Situated at Lola-Rogge-Platz—the vibrant centre of this intergenerational community—they demonstrate how subsidised housing need not compromise on architectural excellence. Rendered entirely in brick, the development reads as a cohesive urban composition. Subtle variations in brick colour and format create a sculptural richness across the façade. Inspired by the Elbe's waters and the busy shipping lanes, the design features a strong horizontal language—layered bands, joints, and rhythmic striations that evoke the site's waterfront character. As Dudler explains: "This unique location, surrounded by water on two sides, shaped every aspect of the façade. The individual houses merge into a unified spatial form that rises like a rock formation, engaging dynamically with its surroundings. The interplay of light across the carefully composed façade reliefs captures the constant movement of water and vessels."

The two buildings house 64 publicly subsidised family and senior apartments, along with nursing units. Complementing this vibrant neighbourhood are two local shops on Lola-Rogge-Platz, HafenCity's second primary school (currently under construction) across the street, a daycare facility with approximately 200 places, the nearby Baakenpark, and excellent public transport connections—all hallmarks of a truly thriving community.

www.maxdudler.de

Photography Credits:

Stefan Müller
www.stefanjosefmueller.de

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 04|21)