Felgendreher Olfs Köchling Architekten

Description

The new Johann Jacobs House seems as if it has always been a presence in the cityscape. Its position in the urban layout grants it views in three directions of its surroundings: the volume is set back on all three sides towards the upper part, in relation to the different eaves of the neighbouring historical buildings. Its urban specificity and autonomy are attributed to its plasticity and façade rhythm, subtly mimicking the typical Hanseatic stepped gable wall. The external concrete walls of the building are ingeniously staggered, shaping the form of the building and completely freeing the interiors from pillars, while ensuring great functional flexibility. To achieve increased openness and exposure of the internal spaces on three sides, the structures and internal staircases were reduced to an essential minimum. Earth-coloured masonry walls composed of water-struck bricks and ochre-hued mortar resemble typical Hanseatic façades. The sandstone sculptures of the original building were used to decorate the main façade. Following the arched display windows, pedestrians are guided from the main commercial street through a side alley, entering a newly configured public square. The main portal of the Stadtwaage building was delicately refurbished. The historical Stadtwaage combines the styles of the Weser Renaissance and the reconstruction after World War II. Similarly, the Johann Jacobs House makes heterogeneous fragments blend with references to different periods of construction and regional motifs.