Viktoriastrasse 42

In 1956, bauverein AG, then still the "Bauverein für Arbeiterwohnungen", erected the building at Viktoriastrasse 42, which was designed for workers on low wages and comprised 86 beds. After the post-war period, demand changed and the small-scale floor plans soon became outdated, so the rooms were converted into flats.

From 2018, the Viktoriastrasse was remodelled again: The building was modernised and renovated to make it more energy efficient. The façade and roof were renovated and the top floor was converted. This created four additional flats. The floor plans of the existing flats have been optimised, the electrics and sanitary facilities have been completely renewed and underfloor heating has been installed. The building also received new windows, flat and entrance doors and a new doorbell system. Parallel to the major modernisation, a small plot of land behind the building was developed for an extension. The building was also given a second staircase and a lift. This means that all flats connected via this stairwell are now barrier-free.

A special feature of this major modernisation is that bauverein AG has used a natural material for insulation for the first time. Hemp was used here, which as a renewable raw material represents an interesting ecological alternative to conventional insulating materials. Hemp binds considerable amounts of carbon dioxide as it grows, has good insulating properties, is highly permeable and offers excellent sound and heat insulation. The natural material is also very easy to recycle. This makes Viktoriastrasse the first apartment block in Germany to be fitted with this type of insulation - a pilot project for bauverein AG and the Ober-Ramstadt-based company Caparol. In addition to the use of hemp, attention was also paid to the use of certified, pollutant-free and easily recyclable materials in this sustainability-focussed project. All materials used in the modernisation were tested by an expert before construction began.