Four courtyards for Giessen: Timber construction meets urban vision
On the site of the former Heyligenstaedt machine tool factory in Giessen, a forward-looking urban quarter is being created that combines tradition and modernity. Under the direction of developer Wolfgang Lust and based on designs by the renowned architectural firm Snøhetta, the area is being transformed into a lively center for work, health and hospitality.
The project comprises three new buildings grouped around four themed courtyards: "Hey move", "Hey live", "Hey feel good" and "Hey connect". These courtyards serve as green oases and promote interaction between users.
The construction method focuses on sustainability: 2,300 cubic meters of cross-laminated timber (CLT) made from local spruce are used, which binds around 2,300 tons of CO₂. The buildings will have green façades and roofs, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also improve the microclimate.
With a total investment of 60 million euros, office space, a medical center and an expansion of the Hotel Heyligenstaedt from 40 to 120 beds are being built on the 9,000 square meter site. A two-storey underground car park completes the offer.
The project is scheduled for completion in October 2025. By then, an exemplary quarter will have been created in Giessen that shows how sustainable timber construction and urban development can go hand in hand.
