This five-storey apartment building, nestled in an exclusive location directly adjacent to Düsseldorf Zoo, was in need of comprehensive renewal. The Düsseldorf-based architects pier7 architekten—whose own office sits just a few doors away—conceived a renovation that bathes every floor in natural light.

The renovation's core strategy was to respect and enhance the existing structure wherever possible, expanding where practical. This approach unlocked new residential space: the basement extension, merged with the ground floor, now houses a generous maisonette with terrace and private garden. A complete rebuild of the attic created a two-storey penthouse maisonette with dual roof terraces—one facing the garden, one facing the street—opening to panoramic views in both directions. Carefully scaled to respect the eaves lines of neighboring properties, the attic preserves the block's architectural character. The three intermediate residential floors maintain that same quality of light and openness, flowing naturally from street to garden. The existing floor-to-ceiling windows on the garden facade were preserved; paired with covered loggias, they frame the peaceful courtyard garden. On the street side, the design enlarges the window openings, introducing generous floor-to-ceiling glazing that frames verdant views of the adjacent park. The interplay of oak flooring and white-rendered walls fosters an inviting, warm living environment with abundant connection to the landscape. These revised window proportions give the building a refreshed streetside presence. The façade—upgraded for energy performance and insulated with sustainable mineral wool—wears a lime-cement plaster finish. Applied with a brushed technique, it creates an expressive interplay of light and shadow.

www.pier7-architekten.de

Photos:
Michael Reisch
www.michaelreisch.net

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 03|24)