Construction site of the week – Gutting and renovation in Cologne’s Südstadt district
The former insurance company building in Cologne’s Südstadt district, which consists of two connected structures, was gutted and renovated by DA member company BECKER Sanierungstechnik GmbH from March to August 2024. The two buildings could not be more different. This was also reflected in the approach and the requirements.
“Eiermannbau” under monument protection
The first building, which is located directly on the corner of the street, is a new building clad in beige concrete slabs and equipped with a glass external elevator. The second building is the so-called “Eiermannbau”, named after its architect Egon Eiermann, one of the most important architects of post-war modernism. The building, which is clad in small dark mosaic tiles, is a listed building.
Demolition robot facilitates the gutting work
The gutting of the new building was partly carried out with a Husqvarna demolition robot, which chiseled open the floor and thus decisively advanced the gutting measures. On average, 12 employees per building worked on the gutting and renovation. For the good of the environment, the catering equipment was not disposed of but resold. Wood, metal, mineral wool, plaster, BMA, screed and asbestos were removed from the reinforced concrete structures during the gutting process. The material was taken to regional disposal companies where it was either processed or disposed of.
Façade and stairwell must remain intact
The façade and staircase of the “Eiermann Building” were to remain undamaged due to the monument protection requirements. To ensure their integrity, fleece was laid on the stairs during the work.
Once approval has been obtained, the new building façade will be dismantled and the roof surfaces on both buildings will be renewed next year. After completion, office space will be created in the new building. A municipal library is expected to move into the “Eiermannbau”. The prerequisite for this would be that the structural analysis is positive so that the countless books can also find their place.
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