Philosophicum

The Philosophicum of the Johann Wolfgang von Goethe University in Frankfurt is a listed building. In 2011, B+G conducted a feasibility study on behalf of Frankfurt’s housing association ABG about the potential conversion of the seminar building into a residential building. After the sale of the property there has been built a student dormitory with 270 apartments, a day-care centre and a cafe on the ground floor. The listed building has been complemented by a new five-storey building. The extension was adapted to the architectural style of the adjacent Philosophicum building and structurally connected to it by the stair towers. B+G were responsible for the recording of the existing structures with regard to the historic preservation, structural and façade design as well as building physics.

The façade design included the careful renovation of the existing reinforced concrete façades, the curtain-wall façade has been reconstructed in its appearance as a steel façade. For this purpose a full technical documentation of the façades has been done including analysis and evaluation. Regarding building physics, various concepts have been developed to ensure that thermal comfort is maintained both in summer and in winter. The special challenge of the façade was the available construction depth of only 55 mm. After completion, the façade is in good harmony with the historic façade, while meeting all modern requirements.