The urban master plan for the new Mitte Altona district envisions a classic block structure rooted in the architectural character of neighbouring districts. Designed by Planwerkeins Architekten for Instone Real Estate's Hamburg operation, Block 7 occupies the corner of Domenica-Niehoff-Twiete and Eva-Rühmkorf-Straße. Comprising two buildings, it defines the north-western perimeter of the plaza with a dynamic interplay of projecting and recessed volumes—both horizontal and vertical—that articulate the streetscape.

The verticality established by the seven-storey corner tower is counterbalanced through carefully considered horizontal gestures: the staggered crown section folds diagonally inward on the north elevation, creating a fluid transition to the adjacent six-storey structure. To the southwest, a recessed roof terrace steps down from the fourth floor, gracefully mediating the shift to the neighbouring rooflines. A two-storey setback at the base creates an accentuating cantilever that, paired with the attic level, achieves classical proportions while anchoring the entrance. The street-facing façade presents Janinhoff thin-format clinker bricks in two complementary grey tones, contrasting beautifully with bronze-tinted windows. Every second brick course projects slightly, generating a subtle sculptural quality through dynamic light and shadow. Bevelled window reveals draw attention to the entrances and reinforce the staggered fenestration pattern. Together, these elements create an inviting, visually layered composition that tempers the urban discipline of the master plan.

Each building maintains its own street entrance, aligned directly with the pavement. The underground car park entrance sits on the north-east side, shared among four buildings. Both structures connect to the inner courtyard via accessible stairwells with lifts, organized as a two-wing system spanning six and seven storeys. The ground level is raised as a mezzanine, creating appropriate separation from the public realm. All 25 apartments feature either a balcony or terrace. Soft grey plaster façades face the planted courtyard, harmonizing with the clinker palette. Street-facing balcony railings combine partial glazing and opaque panels, while courtyard-facing railings feature horizontal bars. The landscape-designed courtyard offers private terraces alongside children's play areas and recreational spaces amidst generous greenery.

www.planwerkeins.de

Photography Credits:

Rolf Otzipka
www.picdrop.com

(From CUBE Hamburg 02|20)