WEHRHAHNCENTER DÜSSELDORF 2018 — Conversion of a 1980s business complex: The design of the aging Wehrhahncenter was contradictory. With wide-angled corners and cantilevered upper floors, it was designed to be a big building. The façade, on the other hand, created a feeling of smallness through its bay windows, projections and recesses, and alternation between glass and various natural stone surfaces. By adding and removing, the renovation calmed the overall appearance, with the staggered floors raised to create the simplicity of a clear cubature. The new façade makes the impression of being layered, with long window strips and horizontal bands of natural stone defining its appearance. The Wehrhahncenter has offices on the upper floors, while the ground floor is dedicated to retail. The forecourt has become the spacious urban foyer of the new building.

Photos by Stefan Müller