Ziegelei-Allee, Frankfurt , 2023, 3rd Prize

The new urban block assumes a mediating function at the interface between the sprawling built city and the forward-looking neighbourhood development in the new “Stadtteil der Quartiere” in Frankfurt. In the north, those arriving are welcomed by the staggered building structure, which also serves as a confident statement in relation to the built-up city. By structuring the main and front façades as well as the garden, the scale of the surrounding buildings is reflected, allowing the new urban block to subtly integrate into its architectural surroundings while still defining a new scale.

Commercial units enliven the ground floor zones facing the street, while the rear area is used for living due to the direct connection to the generous green space. Secondary entrances to the garden make common infrastructures available within a short distance. The building’s design, which interlocks with the outdoor space and extends vertically rather than horizontally, allows for a significant portion of the site area to be provided as protected outdoor space for residents. Through private outdoor areas, children’s play areas and communal spaces landscaped with native, climate-resilient tree and shrub species, a high-quality movement and meeting place is created as the basis for a vibrant neighbourhood. The compact volume, the small footprint of the building and minimised underground parking enable cost-effective and sustainable construction.