Multi-family housing reimagined. The design by weischer architekten proves there's more than one way to do it. This Münster-based firm has created two staggered volumes in Werne, unified by a generous stairwell with soaring ceiling heights. Far more than a circulation hub, this central space doubles as a vibrant gathering point for all 13 residential units.

Situated in a residential district near the town centre and adjacent lakeside park, this apartment complex features two gabled buildings positioned on a 1,700 m² corner site. Their arrangement thoughtfully integrates with the area's fine-grained urban fabric. The clients envisioned a unified colour palette across roof and façade—a contemporary take on the neighbouring vernacular. The choice was clear: locally sourced red clinker brick, warm and inviting, became the façade's defining material. The roof's harmonious terracotta tone complements this scheme, while wood-aluminium windows with their pronounced reveals provide subtle visual breaks from the rigorous colour concept. The building houses 13 apartments ranging from two to four rooms (50–130 m² each), each opening onto either a roof terrace, balcony, or private garden. Open-plan living and dining areas—some reaching five metres in height thanks to removed floor plates—flood the spaces with natural light through generous roof windows, creating an expansive, airy quality. White-painted interiors pair oiled oak window frames with matching oak parquet flooring; attic units showcase eye-catching herringbone patterns. The communal corridors employ natural materials—white cast stone and green Anröchter limestone—along with coordinated railings to establish a warm, welcoming character. Each floor includes a shared laundry facility. The heating system is bivalent: 50% from a brine heat pump drawing geothermal energy, 50% from gas backup. External roller shades manage summer solar gains. The underground garage accommodates 13 vehicles and 30 bicycles, with additional visitor parking in the courtyard.

www.weischerarchitekten.de

Photography:
Frank Schoepgens
www.schoepgens.photos

(From CUBE Ruhrgebiet 02|24)