Goethestrasse 4-14

The mix of old and new is one of those things: the result often looks grafted on and lacks authenticity. Goethestrasse 4-14, where bauverein AG has added a residential storey to three apartment blocks dating from the 1950s, transforming them into a visually appealing ensemble close to the city centre, is quite different. The fact that this blends in wonderfully with its surroundings despite its altered appearance is thanks to the discreet and appealing design: white was combined with a restrained beige-grey tone for the façades, while a few deliberately burgundy window frames provide colourful accents.

The project was complemented by a new building at Goethestrasse 4a, a condominium project with eight flats. Overall, the scheme increased the number of flats from 36 to 51; the living space was almost doubled and now totals 4,408 m². While the existing flats were retained and continue to be rented out, the seven penthouse flats created by the extension were sold. They are barrier-free, accessible via an external lift and boast high-quality fittings and huge terraces (approx. 40 m²), which were added to the newly created third floor and offer a fantastic view over Darmstadt. The existing flats have been upgraded with metal front balconies; the surrounding green areas have been redesigned. The "Goethestraße" lettering painted on the side of one of the lifts is a neat eye-catcher.

Photos: © Frank Seifert, www.frank-seifert.com