PROJECT

Haus GOE Köln

CLIENT

private

ARCHITECT

Benjamin von Pidoll Architektur

CONTRACTOR

Backstein Kontor Cologne – Klinkerbau Nöbel

FACING BRICK

linea 7035

Photo's: © Marie Kreibich

Located on a prominent corner plot within a historic workers’ neighborhood in Cologne, House GOE is a refined example of contemporary urban living rooted in contextual sensitivity. Designed by Benjamin von Pidoll Architects, the project replaces an existing building that no longer met the spatial, structural, or environmental demands of its dense inner-city setting. Through careful analysis of the site’s constraints and potentials, the architects developed a new residential structure that responds precisely to urban density, daylight conditions, and long-term adaptability.

The building integrates seamlessly into the traditional block structure and established street alignment, continuing the geometries of the surrounding streetscape. Subtle architectural cues, such as the bend in the road and the characteristic corner condition, are reinterpreted with restraint and clarity. A distinctive upper-floor corner window recalls the original building while translating it into a contemporary architectural language defined by minimalist detailing and material precision. House GOE presents itself as a calm yet confident urban presence: respectful of its context, but clearly of its time.

At the conceptual level, the project explores how a private home can engage openly with the public realm without sacrificing intimacy. A patio-like front garden acts as a transitional buffer between street and interior, allowing light and views to enter while preserving privacy. Inside, the spatial concept is inspired by Japanese principles of flexibility and openness. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors enable the largely open plan to be subdivided into smaller, more intimate zones as needed. This adaptable layout reflects the clients’ stage of life: one defined by independence, clarity of preferences, and a desire for spatial freedom.

Materiality is central to House GOE’s architectural experience, with the linea 7035 facing brick defining its identity. Chosen for its craftsmanship, timeless character, robustness, and subtle light-grey tone with warm beige undertones, the linea 7035 facing brick creates a calm, nuanced façade that harmonizes with the historic Cologne context while asserting a contemporary presence. The facing brick’s slender proportions and tactile surface enhance the minimalist expression. At the same time, the durability of the brick supports the project’s sustainable, low-tech approach and ensures the building will age gracefully.

The facing brick also gracefully extends into the interior in select areas, blurring the line between inside and outside. Combined with a consistent palette of lightly stained oak, travertine, cashmere-grey lacquer, and exposed concrete, it reinforces a sense of flow, visual calm, and material continuity across all three levels, unifying interior and exterior in a coherent, tactile architectural narrative.

Sustainability is addressed through durable construction, a long-lasting two-layer brick envelope, renewable energy sources, and strategies for natural ventilation and shading. The structural system allows for future reconfiguration, ensuring long-term usability.

In recognition of its architectural quality, material intelligence, and thoughtful urban integration, House GOE was awarded the German Design Award Winner 2026, confirming its status as an inspiring reference for contemporary residential architecture in dense urban contexts.