Welcome at the Water

Waterlofts bring sophisticated living options to an urban waterfront setting

Uhlenhorst's waterfront location has established it as one of Hamburg's most coveted residential addresses. Along the Uhlenhorster Canal—which connects directly to the Außenalster via the Feenteich—APB Architects designed the Waterlofts for developer GFG. The two parallel buildings, spanning four to five storeys, contain 101 meticulously crafted residences.

The two 80-metre structures gain visual coherence through alternating light and dark masonry façades, each deliberately divided into five distinct houses for legibility. Stacked, floor-to-ceiling lattice windows paired with recessed loggias create a measured, restful rhythm across the façade. Refined brick detailing adds further refinement, with articulated frames emphasizing each opening. A continuous masonry plinth along Kanalstraße ties the composition together at the generous ground floor level, which incorporates four commercial units. Delicate brick ornamental panels accentuate the expansive glazed entries of the front building. The stepped upper floors partially recede to form crenellated rooflines that echo the district's characteristic townhouse vernacular. Between them, the two buildings enclose a verdant, meticulously appointed courtyard—a serene, exclusive refuge for residents. Throughout, refined lines and premium materials define the Waterlofts' restrained yet sophisticated architectural expression.

The ownership apartments range from one to six rooms and 31 to 186 m², each with generous three-metre ceiling heights. The diverse floor plans include city apartments, two-storey maisonettes with townhouse appeal, and spacious penthouses. Open-plan living and dining zones paired with full-height industrial-style gridded windows establish a distinctive loft aesthetic. Every residence offers multiple outdoor spaces—terraces, balconies, loggias, and roof terraces—flooded with natural light and commanding views. The underground parking garage supports new electric mobility standards. Set within an appealing urban neighbourhood with excellent public transport connections, the complex offers residents something unique: an in-house storage facility for canoes and SUP boards, plus direct canal access. This means reaching the Outer Alster is possible not just on foot, but by water.

www.apb-architekten.de

Photography Credits:

Martin Kunze

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 01|24)

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