In Braunsfeld, the Stolberger Hof has created a small oasis for creative work in the middle of a very heterogeneous environment that has grown over decades: two office blocks facing each other, harmoniously connected by an inner courtyard and with garden and terrace areas for breaks and communication at the rear. They lend the project a village-like atmosphere and offer its users a tranquil ambience for working in what is otherwise a very lively environment.

The office lofts, which were built by the Friedrich Wassermann construction company as general contractor in the immediate vicinity of the company headquarters, were designed by Trübenbach Architects. "The special feature of the construction project is the community-oriented concept of the courtyard," says architect Bernhard Trübenbach, adding that the large gate entrance leads to a tranquil working environment that blends seamlessly into its surroundings.

The twin buildings are each divided into four two-storey units with separate entrances, giving them the character of terraced houses. On the courtyard side, the building façades are clad with brick slips, which are framed by horizontal and vertical band-like plaster surfaces. The intuitive structure of the office units allows for quick orientation and, in terms of design, is both a connecting and separating element. This highlights the commonalities between the various units. The courtyard areas are paved with solid bricks that are suitable for vehicle traffic. Only the parking spaces are marked with light-coloured concrete block borders. The four trees planted in the central strip of the courtyard emphasise the overall square character of the Stolberger Hof. The use of multi-coloured bricks for both the façades and the courtyard and access areas creates a multifaceted appearance.

The interior of the buildings can be designed independently and functionally. The gallery, with a ceiling height of six metres, is a special feature of some of the office lofts in the eastern wing of the building. The spacious two-storey office and practice areas in the western wing opposite have windows on both sides. With the exception of a central concrete pillar, the interior areas of all units are free of load-bearing walls or load-bearing elements, allowing for completely individual use.

www.truebenbach-architekten.de
www.friedrich-wassermann.de

Photography Credits:

Manos Meisen
www.manosmeisen.de

(Published in CUBE Cologne Bonn 01|21)