Bauteil-ReUse Centre 01: Cologne-Kalk
Basic information
Project Title
Bauteil-ReUse Centre 01: Cologne-Kalk
Full project title
Bauteil-ReUse Centre 01: Cologne-Kalk - A programmatic deduction of a ReUse center
Category
Shaping a circular industrial ecosystem and supporting life-cycle thinking
Project Description
The objective is to develop a concept for a component reuse center in Cologne-Kalk. The aim is to promote circular building practices by defining specific uses, combining different functions, and integrating with the surrounding urban context. The design will explore the architectural and construction aspects of using recycled components, turning the center into a living lab for experimentation. Bauteil-ReUse Centre 01 is to become the prototype of a new, long overdue typology.
Geographical Scope
Regional
Project Region
Cologne and surrounding area in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany
Urban or rural issues
It addresses urban-rural linkages
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
The Humboldthallen in Cologne-Kalk, East Cologne, are an important historical ensemble of buildings that once housed the machine factory and specialised foundry of Deutz company. Over the years, Kalk has undergone a structural change with the decline of industrial companies, leaving behind derelict areas and vacant buildings. The Humboldthallen, with their striking architecture and central location, offer the opportunity to integrate these areas into new utilisation concepts. One such concept is the establishment of a component reuse centre on the site. This centre aims to promote the principles of circular construction and urban mining, contributing to the growing importance of the circular economy in architecture.
The main objective of this project is to develop a programmatic and design-constructive concept for the Bauteil-ReUse Centre at the Humboldthallen site. The design aims to firmly anchor the principles and qualities of circular building in the public consciousness by defining its use, combining various functions, and linking it with usage modules from the urban context. At the architectural level, the design will explore the constructive and design characteristics of using recycled components, transforming the Bauteil-ReUse Centre into a living lab for its own questions.
The key questions to address in this project include the design of processes and uses that establish the ReUse Centre as a building of public interest. Will the building follow existing typologies such as recycling centres, Ikea stores, or DIY stores, or will it require new typological definitions? The building also has the potential to act as a laboratory, effectively communicating the organizational, constructive, and aesthetic qualities of component recycling to increase general acceptance. Overall, the Bauteil-ReUse Centre at the Humboldthallen site represents an opportunity to showcase sustainable solutions and promote the circular economy in architecture.
The main objective of this project is to develop a programmatic and design-constructive concept for the Bauteil-ReUse Centre at the Humboldthallen site. The design aims to firmly anchor the principles and qualities of circular building in the public consciousness by defining its use, combining various functions, and linking it with usage modules from the urban context. At the architectural level, the design will explore the constructive and design characteristics of using recycled components, transforming the Bauteil-ReUse Centre into a living lab for its own questions.
The key questions to address in this project include the design of processes and uses that establish the ReUse Centre as a building of public interest. Will the building follow existing typologies such as recycling centres, Ikea stores, or DIY stores, or will it require new typological definitions? The building also has the potential to act as a laboratory, effectively communicating the organizational, constructive, and aesthetic qualities of component recycling to increase general acceptance. Overall, the Bauteil-ReUse Centre at the Humboldthallen site represents an opportunity to showcase sustainable solutions and promote the circular economy in architecture.
Key objectives for sustainability
+ Environmentally friendly revitalisation: The conversion of the Humboldthallen into a Bauteil-ReUse Center aims to sustainably revitalise derelict areas and make more efficient use of urban space instead of initiating new construction projects on previously untouched areas.
+ Promoting the circular economy: The Bauteil-ReUse Centre aims to anchor the basic principles of the circular economy in architecture by acting as a hub for the sorting, storage and reuse of building materials. This will reduce the need for newly produced building materials and extend the lifespan of existing materials.
+ Raising awareness of circular construction: The project aims to raise awareness of circular construction in society by creating a public building that emphasises the principles of sustainable construction. The central location of the Humboldthallen helps to reach a broad public and raise awareness of the benefits of reusing building components.
+ Sustainable urban development: The Bauteil-ReUse Centre is intended to contribute to sustainable urban development by preserving the history and identity of the Cologne-Kalk district while promoting contemporary, sustainable use. This supports sustainable structural change and contributes to the long-term character of the neighbourhood.
The project can be regarded as exemplary, as it not only pursues the goals of sustainability, but is also located on a historically significant site. The targeted selection of vacant inner-city halls demonstrates the resource-efficient utilisation of existing infrastructure. The integration of public discourse and participatory planning processes also promotes acceptance in the community, which contributes to sustainable development that is adapted to the needs of the population.
+ Promoting the circular economy: The Bauteil-ReUse Centre aims to anchor the basic principles of the circular economy in architecture by acting as a hub for the sorting, storage and reuse of building materials. This will reduce the need for newly produced building materials and extend the lifespan of existing materials.
+ Raising awareness of circular construction: The project aims to raise awareness of circular construction in society by creating a public building that emphasises the principles of sustainable construction. The central location of the Humboldthallen helps to reach a broad public and raise awareness of the benefits of reusing building components.
+ Sustainable urban development: The Bauteil-ReUse Centre is intended to contribute to sustainable urban development by preserving the history and identity of the Cologne-Kalk district while promoting contemporary, sustainable use. This supports sustainable structural change and contributes to the long-term character of the neighbourhood.
The project can be regarded as exemplary, as it not only pursues the goals of sustainability, but is also located on a historically significant site. The targeted selection of vacant inner-city halls demonstrates the resource-efficient utilisation of existing infrastructure. The integration of public discourse and participatory planning processes also promotes acceptance in the community, which contributes to sustainable development that is adapted to the needs of the population.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
Form follows availability
I would like to explain the design objectives of the Bauteil-ReUse Centre on the site of the Humboldthallen in Cologne-Kalk using the example of the commercial building K.118 by baubüro insitu on the Winterthur storage site, which served as a source of inspiration. The project offers interesting suggestions for the aesthetic realisation and the creation of a qualitative user experience that is a product of available building materials:
+ Bricolage - integration of reused building components: The K.118 commercial building shows that the use of reused components can be not only ecological but also aesthetically pleasing. The different materials and elements, from steel beams to granite façade panels, are creatively combined to achieve a unique architectural design. The Bauteil-ReUse Centre in Cologne-Kalk strives for a similar aesthetic integration in order to make the diversity and history of the reused components visible.
+ Room-in-room architecture for flexibility and modularity: an optimal solution for the vacant halls of the Humboldthallen. This design technique enables the creation of flexible, modular spaces within the existing structure. The use of modular units can support various functions such as exhibitions, training courses or a transparent recycling factory, regardless of the structural nature of the hall. This not only increases the efficiency of use, but also enables a diverse and adaptable environment that enriches the user experience in the Bauteil-ReUse Centre.
+ Lighthouse project: As a combination of several typologies, a prototype is being created which, in addition to sustainability goals, also aims to educate. The cultural aspect is to be strengthened by adding uses and the building is to become a polarising new place with an almost museum-like character.
As a consequence, the Bauteil-ReUse Centre must build itself and the true appearance or the final aesthetic is subject to the availability of material.
I would like to explain the design objectives of the Bauteil-ReUse Centre on the site of the Humboldthallen in Cologne-Kalk using the example of the commercial building K.118 by baubüro insitu on the Winterthur storage site, which served as a source of inspiration. The project offers interesting suggestions for the aesthetic realisation and the creation of a qualitative user experience that is a product of available building materials:
+ Bricolage - integration of reused building components: The K.118 commercial building shows that the use of reused components can be not only ecological but also aesthetically pleasing. The different materials and elements, from steel beams to granite façade panels, are creatively combined to achieve a unique architectural design. The Bauteil-ReUse Centre in Cologne-Kalk strives for a similar aesthetic integration in order to make the diversity and history of the reused components visible.
+ Room-in-room architecture for flexibility and modularity: an optimal solution for the vacant halls of the Humboldthallen. This design technique enables the creation of flexible, modular spaces within the existing structure. The use of modular units can support various functions such as exhibitions, training courses or a transparent recycling factory, regardless of the structural nature of the hall. This not only increases the efficiency of use, but also enables a diverse and adaptable environment that enriches the user experience in the Bauteil-ReUse Centre.
+ Lighthouse project: As a combination of several typologies, a prototype is being created which, in addition to sustainability goals, also aims to educate. The cultural aspect is to be strengthened by adding uses and the building is to become a polarising new place with an almost museum-like character.
As a consequence, the Bauteil-ReUse Centre must build itself and the true appearance or the final aesthetic is subject to the availability of material.
Key objectives for inclusion
The primary objectives of the project concerning inclusion span various aspects, ranging from accessibility and affordability for all to inclusive governance systems, design principles for everyone, and the promotion of new societal models:
+ Affordability and Social Integration: The Bauteil-ReUse Center aims to provide affordable building materials and resources for the community. The reuse of components not only promotes ecological sustainability but also creates the opportunity to offer cost-effective building materials. This contributes to reducing socio-economic barriers and enables broad community participation.
+ Inclusive Governance: The project aims to implement inclusive governance models that foster community participation and engagement of diverse interest groups. Emphasis is placed on participatory decision-making and transparent processes to ensure the consideration of the needs and concerns of various population groups.
+ Design for All Principles: The architectural design of the Bauteil-ReUse Center aligns with Design for All principles. This means that the spaces are designed not only to be aesthetically pleasing but also to address the needs of a broad spectrum of users, including those with different abilities, age groups, and cultural backgrounds.
+ Promotion of New Societal Models: The Bauteil-ReUse Center intends to serve not only as a physical space but also as a catalyst for new societal models. It aspires to create an inclusive community based on principles of equality, participation, and collaboration. This can serve as a model for other projects, fostering social inclusion in urban developments.
The Bauteil-ReUse Center in Köln-Kalk will thus not only pursue spatial, ecological, and aesthetic goals but also serve as a trailblazer for inclusive practices and models that promote a diverse and integrative society.
+ Affordability and Social Integration: The Bauteil-ReUse Center aims to provide affordable building materials and resources for the community. The reuse of components not only promotes ecological sustainability but also creates the opportunity to offer cost-effective building materials. This contributes to reducing socio-economic barriers and enables broad community participation.
+ Inclusive Governance: The project aims to implement inclusive governance models that foster community participation and engagement of diverse interest groups. Emphasis is placed on participatory decision-making and transparent processes to ensure the consideration of the needs and concerns of various population groups.
+ Design for All Principles: The architectural design of the Bauteil-ReUse Center aligns with Design for All principles. This means that the spaces are designed not only to be aesthetically pleasing but also to address the needs of a broad spectrum of users, including those with different abilities, age groups, and cultural backgrounds.
+ Promotion of New Societal Models: The Bauteil-ReUse Center intends to serve not only as a physical space but also as a catalyst for new societal models. It aspires to create an inclusive community based on principles of equality, participation, and collaboration. This can serve as a model for other projects, fostering social inclusion in urban developments.
The Bauteil-ReUse Center in Köln-Kalk will thus not only pursue spatial, ecological, and aesthetic goals but also serve as a trailblazer for inclusive practices and models that promote a diverse and integrative society.
How Citizens benefit
The participation of citizens and civil society in the project primarily took place as part of the preceding workshop processes. Although I personally did not have any direct discussions with residents, their perspectives and opinions were obtained through participation in the workshop processes.
Role and degree of participation:
+ Participation in workshop processes
Residents were invited to participate in the workshop processes to contribute their opinions and concerns about the project.
+ Input through surveys and workshops:
Targeted surveys and workshops were conducted in an attempt to involve a broad cross-section of the community and understand their needs as well as preferences.
+ Presentation and discussion of designs:
The designs developed were presented in public presentations to get feedback and input from citizens.
Although direct discussions with residents did not take place, their indirect involvement was ensured through the workshop processes. This had a positive influence on the project in terms of orientation, legitimisation and identification. The residents would benefit from the ReUse Centre by having their needs and perspectives integrated into the design of the centre. This ensures a higher relevance of the project for the community and enables the creation of a centre that not only improves the general urban context, but also specifically addresses the local needs and wishes of the residents.
Role and degree of participation:
+ Participation in workshop processes
Residents were invited to participate in the workshop processes to contribute their opinions and concerns about the project.
+ Input through surveys and workshops:
Targeted surveys and workshops were conducted in an attempt to involve a broad cross-section of the community and understand their needs as well as preferences.
+ Presentation and discussion of designs:
The designs developed were presented in public presentations to get feedback and input from citizens.
Although direct discussions with residents did not take place, their indirect involvement was ensured through the workshop processes. This had a positive influence on the project in terms of orientation, legitimisation and identification. The residents would benefit from the ReUse Centre by having their needs and perspectives integrated into the design of the centre. This ensures a higher relevance of the project for the community and enables the creation of a centre that not only improves the general urban context, but also specifically addresses the local needs and wishes of the residents.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
+ procuring and storing
In the past, the reuse of building components was often practised for economic reasons, especially in times of scarce resources and limited financial means. Even the medieval city walls of former Roman colonies were built from stones taken from temples. Builders and craftsmen used existing materials to reduce costs and realise new construction projects.
Today, the reuse of building components has taken on an increased ecological and sustainable focus, driven by environmental awareness and the need to reduce waste in the construction industry. It is now not only about saving costs, but also about conserving resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting the introduction of a circular economy in construction.
In Germany there are a few companies like Concular that are on the right path but in mainstream architecture its rare to reuse building materials. One reason for this could be the legal hurdles and lack of incentives, or the difficulty of procuring and storing old construction material. This is where my project should come in and make things easier for architects and planners in the future.
In the past, the reuse of building components was often practised for economic reasons, especially in times of scarce resources and limited financial means. Even the medieval city walls of former Roman colonies were built from stones taken from temples. Builders and craftsmen used existing materials to reduce costs and realise new construction projects.
Today, the reuse of building components has taken on an increased ecological and sustainable focus, driven by environmental awareness and the need to reduce waste in the construction industry. It is now not only about saving costs, but also about conserving resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting the introduction of a circular economy in construction.
In Germany there are a few companies like Concular that are on the right path but in mainstream architecture its rare to reuse building materials. One reason for this could be the legal hurdles and lack of incentives, or the difficulty of procuring and storing old construction material. This is where my project should come in and make things easier for architects and planners in the future.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
programmatic design architecture and a tiny bit of urban planning.
Methodology used
+ Analysis of the Humboldthallen and the surrounding urban context
+ Documentation of work steps in the form of a compendium
+ Description of the vision of the Bauteil-ReUse Center in a written format
+ Development of an architectural concept with an appropriate spatial program
+ Design of flexible interior spaces for the reception and presentation of building components
Integration of ReUse materials
+ Elaboration of spatial and building structures of the Bauteil-ReUse Center and urban connections to the surrounding area in site plans, urban models, floor plans
+ Documentation of work steps in the form of a compendium
+ Description of the vision of the Bauteil-ReUse Center in a written format
+ Development of an architectural concept with an appropriate spatial program
+ Design of flexible interior spaces for the reception and presentation of building components
Integration of ReUse materials
+ Elaboration of spatial and building structures of the Bauteil-ReUse Center and urban connections to the surrounding area in site plans, urban models, floor plans
How stakeholders are engaged
REGIONAL / LOCAL
Kulturhof Kalk e.V. + X-Süd
A collective of artists who, in collaboration with the residents of Köln Kalk and on the basis of previous workshop processes, have proposed a reutilisation concept. The concept was presented in 2019 and will be a strong addition to the remaining spaces in my project.
BeL Architekten
Arichtekturbüro, which took part in the workshop process for the Kalker Hallen in 2017 and won. I received the dwg. basics from them.
LOCAL
Udo Bertram - Stadt Köln, Liegenschaftsabteilung
+ I needed one thing above all else for my project: space. And my home city of Cologne only has a limited amount of it. That's why I phoned the city council and asked about vacant halls close to the city centre. Mr Bertram, my contact person, accompanied me around the site.
Christan Roth, MA
+An associate of Baukreisel e.V. - a young collective of architects who are activistically drawing attention to the building enviroment. I spoke to him several times about my project and he was able to give me some food for thought.
Kulturhof Kalk e.V. + X-Süd
A collective of artists who, in collaboration with the residents of Köln Kalk and on the basis of previous workshop processes, have proposed a reutilisation concept. The concept was presented in 2019 and will be a strong addition to the remaining spaces in my project.
BeL Architekten
Arichtekturbüro, which took part in the workshop process for the Kalker Hallen in 2017 and won. I received the dwg. basics from them.
LOCAL
Udo Bertram - Stadt Köln, Liegenschaftsabteilung
+ I needed one thing above all else for my project: space. And my home city of Cologne only has a limited amount of it. That's why I phoned the city council and asked about vacant halls close to the city centre. Mr Bertram, my contact person, accompanied me around the site.
Christan Roth, MA
+An associate of Baukreisel e.V. - a young collective of architects who are activistically drawing attention to the building enviroment. I spoke to him several times about my project and he was able to give me some food for thought.
Global challenges
For a future worth living:
+ 40 % of global greenhouse gases caused by the construction industry
+ 220 million tonnes of mineral construction waste in Germany alone in 2020
+ 2 billion expected growth in the world's population in 30 years.
In the next 30 years we will have to build living space for 2 billion new people, but if we do this with the same means as before, their future will not be worth living in.
+ 40 % of global greenhouse gases caused by the construction industry
+ 220 million tonnes of mineral construction waste in Germany alone in 2020
+ 2 billion expected growth in the world's population in 30 years.
In the next 30 years we will have to build living space for 2 billion new people, but if we do this with the same means as before, their future will not be worth living in.
Learning transferred to other parties
There are vacancies in every city, so the location is transferable in that sense.
It is even necessary to reproduce the utilisation of the ReUse Centre and apply it to different areas. To this end, I am working out the underlying processes and, depending on the location, the additional uses that could actively contribute to increasing general acceptance.
It is even necessary to reproduce the utilisation of the ReUse Centre and apply it to different areas. To this end, I am working out the underlying processes and, depending on the location, the additional uses that could actively contribute to increasing general acceptance.
Keywords
Bauteil-ReUse Centre
Recycle
Circular Hub
A New Typology
Urban Mining
