Hessenring: A Neighbourhood of the Future
" When selecting materials for the interior fit-out, it was also important to us to use materials with low VOC emissions and a high level of comfort. " – Markus Raupach, FFM-ARCHITEKTEN
Systematic infill development with long-term success
An award-winning flagship project featuring resource-efficient construction has been completed in Rüsselsheim: the Hessenring combines smart infill development with innovative timber construction and well-planned modernisation. objectflor supplied the flooring to match.
The original 72 residential units in the 1960s-era building stock have been transformed into 124 sustainable rental flats – through the addition of extra storeys, extensions and five new buildings (satellites), predominantly using resource-efficient timber construction methods. The result is a diverse, intergenerational neighbourhood offering a high quality of life – which has been awarded first prize at the 4th Hessian Prize for Innovation and Community Spirit, the GFB Future Prize (October 2023) and the BIG SEE Architecture Award 2026.
Housing for all generations – built for the future
GEWOBAU Gesellschaft für Wohnen und Bauen Rüsselsheim mbH, in collaboration with the architectural practice FFM-ARCHITEKTEN. Tovar + Tovar PartGmbB: four existing buildings were renovated to improve energy efficiency, each was raised by one full storey and supplemented by four satellite blocks – connected via open walkways. A fifth new building stands freestanding. The result: 52 additional flats, including 24 wheelchair-accessible in accordance with DIN 18040-2 (in the satellite buildings) and 22 barrier-free (in the additional storeys) – whilst keeping the level of land sealing virtually unchanged.
The new buildings, constructed using a timber frame system, combine photovoltaic panels, heat pumps and smart home technology.
The result is a socially mixed neighbourhood with communal areas, play areas and natural green spaces – housing that enhances quality of life.
Markus Raupach, FFM-ARCHITEKTEN: “The Hessenring is a prime example of how responsible infill development can succeed: we did not demolish, but rather carefully redeveloped – in terms of energy efficiency, spatial layout and social cohesion. The timber-frame satellite buildings blend into the existing built environment whilst simultaneously creating new qualities for all generations. When selecting materials for the interior fit-out, it was also important to us to use materials with low VOC emissions and high levels of living comfort.”
Flooring that lasts – durable, comfortable, low-emission
In a residential neighbourhood used by several hundred people every day, every detail counts – including the flooring. The requirements were clear: high durability, a pleasant feel underfoot, impact sound insulation and low VOC emissions (Indoor Air Comfort Gold certified). The choice fell on EXPONA LIVING Rich Valley Oak 8011 from objectflor – a resilient design floor that combines robustness with a cosy atmosphere.
“The floor had to withstand wear and tear, whilst also ensuring a pleasant living environment. EXPONA LIVING has proved to be the ideal solution – durable, easy to maintain and meeting high standards for indoor air quality,” explains the floor installer in charge at IBR Baumanagement GmbH, Dornburg.
EXPONA LIVING impresses with its homogeneous surface in a warm wood finish, which blends discreetly into the interior design whilst creating a cosy atmosphere. Certified to Indoor Air Comfort Gold standard for low VOC emissions, the flooring contributes to indoor air quality and enhances the quality of life in the neighbourhood.
About EXPONA LIVING
The EXPONA LIVING collection from objectflor stands for authentic design flooring with a natural look – perfect for residential and commercial spaces where durability, comfort and cosiness are equally important. These resilient LVT floor coverings impress with their durability, pleasant feel and low emissions.
Hessenring apartment block in Rüsselsheim at a glance
- Project: Complete modernisation, extension and new-builds at Hessenring, Rüsselsheim
- Client: GEWOBAU Gesellschaft für Wohnen und Bauen Rüsselsheim mbH
- Architecture: FFM-ARCHITEKTEN. Tovar + Tovar PartGmbB
- Timeframe: 2021–2025
- Residential units: 124 flats, 52 of which are new
- 72 existing flats modernised
- 22 flats in new storeys (new)
- 30 flats in satellite buildings (new)
- Living space: approx. 8,700 m²
- Flooring: EXPONA LIVING Rich Valley Oak 8011
- Installation area: approx. 5,000 m²
- Installer: IBR Baumanagement GmbH, Dornburg
- Awards: 4th Hessian Prize for Innovation and Community Spirit | 1st Prize | GFB Future Prize October 2023 | BIG SEE Architecture Award 2026 Winner
Copyright exterior photographs: ©Arno Rothacker
Copyright for interior photographs: ©Markus Raupach
Used objectflor products
