Altona Nord

Hamburg, Germany

 

The design is based on the existing urban master plan and the draft for the "Altona Nord 26" development plan. Based on the model of the surrounding existing buildings, urban living and individual diversity are created in small-scale units. The courtyard-like open spaces complement the spatial offer with private and semi-public outdoor areas. The perimeter block figure is individualized by breaking it up into smaller units. Thereby, they differ according to the size of the plots in the architectural differentiation in height and storey. The different heights of the block edge also result in positive effects for the lighting and ventilation of the inner courtyards and corner areas.

The size of the plots is again reflected in the facades. The desired homogeneous diversity is achieved by a permanent over-shaping of recurring elements within a basic order. Common and unifying elements of all types are continuous plinth zones as a demarcation to the street and generous balconies. Open and closed surfaces in the parapets provide changing optical effects in the facades and varying degrees of privacy.

Type A, consisting of base, body and head, derives its effect from the proportioning of the surface. Type B works with an accentuated layering of the floors, emphasized by offset clinker bands. Type C interrupts the respective block edge as a visual joint between the corner buildings and sets itself apart from the neighboring structures with self-contained surfaces. In all types, brick surfaces vary between red and beige shades in similar rhythms, following the example of the surrounding blocks in the existing buildings.

To improve the lighting situation, the inner courtyards are designed exclusively with light-colored plaster facades and structured by balconies.