The “Blaue Blume” cooperative quarter on Eichendorffstrasse in Meerbusch-Lank is being transformed into a future-oriented residential quarter based on our joint design with Schellenberg + Bäumler Architekten, which won first prize in the competition. The focus is on a communal, economic and ecological orientation to create a sustainable living environment. The proximity to the park and the Latumer See as well as the walking distance to the Langenbruchbach offer a high recreational value. At the same time, there are regional and national connections via the Uerdinger Straße. Three approaches were central for us: A high degree of economic efficiency for the site without overshaping the location and scale. Preserving the characterful existing trees as a defining element of the neighborhood. Provide good mobility for everyone while creating a car-free neighborhood protected from traffic noise.
The neighborhood offers a diverse mix of housing for an intergenerational community. In addition to barrier-free 1 to 5-bedroom apartments, there are shared apartments, EOF-subsidized housing, and family-friendly units. Intergenerational and senior housing, as well as an integrated daycare center, allow for a vibrant and intergenerational community. Terraced and semi-detached houses as basic housing complete the offer. A clear separation between private and public areas provides places of retreat. The residential buildings in wood-hybrid construction are arranged in such a way that they frame the green inner area of the neighborhood and form a harmonious ensemble. Overall, the neighborhood stands for sustainable living with its own identity, which promotes a strong social mix and ties. The mobility concept is car-free with a focus on pedestrian friendliness.
The heart of the neighborhood is a green area as a meeting place. All ground floor apartments have private green spaces thanks to open balconies and garden galleries. The quarter garage with electric charging stations, car and cargo bike sharing, and bicycle parking includes urban gardening areas and a communal roof terrace. In addition to preserving the entire tree population, native, climate-resilient tree species will be planted in accordance with the city’s Future List. The sustainable concept focuses on the conscious use of resources: retention areas, trees, and permeable paving form a coherent rainwater management system based on the sponge city principle. PV systems and heat pumps with geothermal probes supply the district with energy. The south and west orientations of the apartments ensure that the rooms are flooded with light, arcades provide sound insulation from the street. These green walls have a cooling effect in the summer and create a pleasant microclimate.
Design: caspar. | Schellenberg + Bäumler Architekten
Awarding authority: GWG Kreis Viersen AG
Visualization/plans: © Schellenberg + Bäumler/Paul Trakies/caspar.
