© Sebastian Kolm
Redensification typically increases usable area. In the village centre of Lichtenfels in northern Bavaria, Peter Haimerl and his clients chose a different strategy to reinvigorate the heart of the town. The new structure facing the market square is significantly smaller than its demolished predecessor building. It features circumferential glazing, minimally dimensioned facade frames and canopies, as well as slender metal posts in the interiors. As a result, the new volume appears nearly invisible between the historic half-timbered houses.