Since 2010, the transformation of the former "Bürostadt Niederrad" into a vibrant mixed-use district – now known as the Lyoner Quarter – has been taking shape. Stefan Forster Architects has become intimately familiar with this evolving landscape. The Frankfurt-based practice has already breathed new life into two vacant office buildings, converting them into residential spaces. Among these is a striking high-rise from the 1970s commissioned by GWH, now a striking residential tower called the Ruby Tower, positioned at the quarter's southern edge.

Directly adjacent, two additional structures containing 158 apartments now rise between Lyoner Strasse and Stadtwald, completing a compelling architectural ensemble alongside the Ruby Tower. The composition features an eight-storey cubic volume addressing the street, combining a parking structure with apartments above, complemented by a separate residential building whose distinctive horizontal S-shaped form embraces two courtyards. A four-storey car park serves residents across both new developments and the neighbouring high-rise.

The refined, geometric language of the combined residential and parking building's monumental façade echoes Aldo Rossi's Architettura Razionale, expressed in warm red clinker brick that deliberately references the Ruby Tower's brilliant hue. This carefully considered palette – alternating between clinker and reddish plaster – extends to the meandering bar building behind, creating visual continuity across the ensemble.

The three- to five-bedroom apartments in both structures enjoy dual-aspect orientations with generous outdoor spaces—loggias and terraces. The two-bedroom units face one direction, maintaining the design's thoughtful approach to residential planning.

www.sfa.de

Photography Credits:

Lisa Farkas
www.lisafarkas.de

(Published in CUBE Frankfurt 01|23)