The housing developments of post-war modernity have a poor reputation, as the ribbon development of a monostructural nature adheres to the functionalistic idea of a diffuse city and not to the current urban model of density, mixing, and diversity. These housing developments are also run down and outdated in terms of their building structure. As they are perceived negatively, they are often either reformed or, in the case of renovation, mostly only adapted with regard to energy efficiency aspects. However, neither of these solutions does justice to post-war housing. This publication addresses the question of living in post-war housing developments anew, with a spotlight on their urban potential. Integrated development possibilities and restructuring strategies are defined, based on detailed analyses of selected housing developments. These go beyond the conventional practice of architectural redevelopment, as they view the housing developments as an urban element, contributing to a wider understanding of urban space.

Volker Kleinekort / Astrid Schmeing