Housing provider HWB is committed to providing diverse housing solutions to meet the needs of its tenants. The ‘WIR am Klingenborn’* [US at Klingenborn] building is a great model of alternative living, comprising three different forms of housing. With 41 units, 50% of the space is allocated to social housing. Sustainability and community are key values that have been integrated into the design of the building, which was completed in 2020.

Intergenerational living and apartments for older people

Fourteen housing units are dedicated to intergenerational living. Here, residents each have their individual apartments but foster a sense of community by spending their free time together. A club of tenants helps to organise communal life, ensuring that everybody feels included.

Eighteen additional units are designated for older residents. Like the intergenerational apartments, every tenant has their own space. A social worker assists in organising activities and community events. Many take place in the communal spaces, such as shared breakfasts, crafting sessions, holiday celebrations, and gardening. There are also excursions and activities organised outside the complex, such as bowling nights.

The social worker also provides assistance with paperwork and communication with authorities, ensuring that residents can navigate their day-to-day lives smoothly.

Additionally, there is a large shared apartment for people living with dementia. This apartment features nine private bedrooms and operates as a form of outpatient care. The management of the apartment is self-determined by the tenants and their families, who have hired nurses to provide comprehensive care.

Community areas

The building is equipped with two community rooms, a community kitchen, and a garden. These facilities are open to everyone in the neighbourhood, creating opportunities for social interaction. Various groups, such as a children’s club and the ‘Edible City’ group—focused on increasing green spaces in urban areas—make regular use of these facilities.

Sustainable design

Sustainability is a core focus at HWB. The ‘WIR am Klingenborn‘ building is heated by a heat pump, and solar panels on the roof further reduce the environmental impact. The structure meets high standards for insulation and energy efficiency. There are two parking spaces for electric cars, and an e-car sharing program is available to both tenants and the surrounding community.

Find out more

To find out more about this project, please contact HWB’s Coordinator through the Members Only Zone. If you are not yet a member of Eurhonet, find out about joining us.

* The full name of the building is ‘WIR am Klingenborn – Gemeinschaftliches Wohnen im Dr. Max Schulze-Kahleyss-Haus.’