Energy-Efficient Façade Element Project in Düsseldorf
In Düsseldorf, Germany (Irmerstraße and Lönsstraße area), Welement AS carried out a large-scale façade element project that resulted in a thoroughly renovated residential complex completed in 2025. The project includes five two-storey apartment buildings, each containing four apartments. In total, 1,647 m² of factory-produced timber façade elements were installed. The renovation was guided by the principle of preserving the buildings’ original architectural character. The apartment houses date back to the 1930s and were transformed into contemporary, energy-efficient living spaces with a strong ambition towards climate neutrality.
The project’s central visual and technical solution consists of two-storey, factory-produced timber façade elements, which enabled a fast and high-quality renovation of the buildings. The façade elements integrate PVC windows with electric external blinds and ventilation systems, significantly improving both indoor climate and user comfort. The use of timber elements adds a natural character and visual softness to the buildings, fitting well into the green, low-density residential environment.
In addition to the façades, the roofs were insulated and equipped with integrated solar panels. Existing heating systems were replaced with heat pumps, complemented by buffer tanks and additional solutions for domestic hot water production. The old balconies were replaced with new, thermally insulated prefabricated balconies. Together, these measures enabled a comprehensive, energy-efficient and long-lasting renovation solution.
All timber façade elements were fully manufactured in the factory, ensuring a high level of quality control and significantly reducing on-site work. Installation of the façade elements for all five buildings took a total of 25 working days, which is a highly efficient result considering the scale of the renovation project.
Before renovation, the buildings were rated energy class F; after the upgrade, energy class A was achieved. The project’s goal was to create climate-neutral residential spaces that sustainably improve tenants’ quality of life while reducing the buildings’ long-term energy consumption.
Overall, the project serves as a strong example of how factory-built timber façade element solutions can enable the fast, high-quality and sustainable renewal of historic housing stock—successfully combining the preservation of architectural heritage with modern energy-efficiency requirements.
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