Where Venloer Straße and Blumachergasse converge, directly across from Pulheim's historic town hall, Cologne-based construction company Friedrich Wassermann has completed a striking mixed-use building designed by the architectural firm Michael Zimmermann und Co. The client's vision was clear: maximize the potential of an underutilized site while advancing sustainable development. Yet what appeared straightforward proved to be anything but—several significant challenges lay ahead.

"Without a viable master plan in place, we had to champion bold design concepts that ultimately won over both city officials and administrators," explains Michael Zimmermann. Securing neighboring residents' approval was equally critical. Once the project's role in revitalizing the city center became clear, support from politicians, the public, and neighbors followed swiftly, paving the way for detailed planning. The architectural vision addresses the undefined corner condition and spatial character of the eastern market plaza with a striking gabled anchor building. Its restrained brick façade strikes a careful balance—distinctive yet harmonious with its surroundings. The long façades, articulated with two-story cross gables, establish a compelling visual rhythm along the street while delivering exceptional quality for residents.

Across the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors, the building encompasses 3,467 m² of gross floor space housing 16 bright apartments with one to three rooms. Each features premium finishes—parquet flooring, generous balconies (one to two per unit)—and complete barrier-free accessibility via elevator. The basement accommodates 21 parking spaces arranged as double-stack facilities. The ground floor brings vitality with restaurants and retail, while the first floor houses a medical practice and physiotherapy clinic. In just 18 months, the team successfully transformed a challenging, irregularly shaped site into a refined, cohesive, and highly efficient urban landmark—all while accommodating a diverse mix of uses.

www.mizico.de
www.friedrich-wassermann.de

Photography Credits:

Manos Meisen
www.manosmeisen.de

(Published in CUBE Cologne Bonn 04|20)