New life in an old barn

The Dortmannhof is an outstanding building: located on the grounds of the famous Zeche Zollverein, known for its cultural role and exceptional modern architecture, nevertheless from its construction in 1791 used for habitation and agricultural purposes.

Meanwhile, one of the few of its type, combining apartments and barn, connected by a central entrance, under one roof.

Two musicians fell in love with the building while looking for a place to live, play music and accommodate guests, and decided to fulfil their house dreams there. The task was not easy, as the entire volume stands under strict protection laws.

The architects did not insulate the entire volume, only the parts meant for habitation.The reasons for it were not entirely economic and ecological: this solution also allowed for keeping old, beautiful structures visible. As the original, beautiful dark stone flooring has been kept, the house is heated with a couple of traditional heaters.

Thanks to modern windows the new part is warmer than the old one in the wintertime – while the stale, hot air is exhausted through the roof. The position of VELUX windows high in the volume ensures optimal air circulation.

Designed volumes turned out to be a perfect solution for all the issues: no additional acoustic measures were needed in the music rooms, as no walls are parallel.

The fire insulation issue was solved by adding fireproof Fermacell cladding on wooden construction.