Seamlessly Integrated
Residential complex in Bredeney demonstrates intelligent use of existing building sites
Bredeney, a district of Essen, is a coveted residential neighborhood renowned for Lake Baldeney, its verdant surroundings, and Villa Hügel—a landmark steeped in 19th and 20th-century heritage. At the heart of Bredeney, where Bredeneyer Straße and Zeunerstraße intersect, a striking new residential complex with retail space opened in late 2019. Drawing its character from the district's historic villas, the development enriches the vibrant town center. Beyond aesthetics, the project exemplifies thoughtful land stewardship in a densely populated area: through strategic planning and selective demolition, architects created approximately five times the usable floor space of what previously stood there.
Nattler Architekten, the Essen-based firm behind the project, envisioned a "villa for many"—a freestanding structure that amplifies the tree-lined character of Bredeneyer Straße. Its bright, elegant façade pays homage to historic Bredeney villas, while a carefully articulated design of projections and recesses animates the building's exterior. As light and perspective shift, the façade continuously reveals new dimensions. These rhythmic projections extend into the central courtyard as loggias and balconies, creating an inviting communal space—a verdant refuge complete with children's play areas that feels like an urban oasis. The ground floor hosts a premium grocery retailer alongside delivery areas, underground parking access, and residential staircases. Staff facilities occupy the first floor. Above these, 45 two- to four-room apartments span three levels, each offering a terrace, balcony, or loggia. Generous glazing bathes interiors in natural light and frames views of the courtyard. The top floor features expansive maisonette apartments with panoramic vistas. The building totals 12,380 m² of gross floor area.
The development's proximity to public transit—notably the Ruhrbahn's "Kulturlinie 107," which runs north-south through Essen—eliminated the need for street-level parking. Instead, 76 spaces for market visitors and residents are tucked discreetly below grade.
Photography Credits:
Espendiller + Gnegel Designer
www.espendiller-gnegel.de
(Featured in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 04|20)
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