Wolfsburg/Göttingen, Germany, September 9, 2025. An increasing demand for homes clashes with a limited supply of space – a well-known problem on the German housing market. Wolfsburg and Göttingen launched a large-scale urban project in order to tackle this challenge. More than 2,000 apartments have been modernized and upgraded, including the installation of balconies and elevators, and almost 100 new flats built on top of existing properties. The individual subprojects were spread across the two cities. The experts from Drees & Sommer, a company that specializes in construction and real estate project consulting, supported the developers, LEG Wohnen, through the neighborhood development project.
The construction and refurbishment activities in Wolfsburg and Göttingen were based on a multi-part neighborhood development plan. In March 2025, the project term of seven years ended with the conclusion of all construction activities. Commenting on the construction work, Anika Tietje, project manager at Drees & Sommer, said: “We have been able to successfully complete the project despite some changes and hurdles. The residents are now going about their daily lives without a building site on their doorstep.”
Lively Examples: Neighborhood Projects in Wolfsburg and Göttingen
In total, 2,040 flats have been modernized, with a focus on renovation and refurbishment of existing apartments. Anika Tietje explained: “The apartment buildings have been upgraded to include balconies and elevators. Outdoor spaces have been redesigned and made more attractive. Moreover, the project comprised the implementation of comprehensive energetic retrofitting measures for future-oriented eco-friendly housing.” So, the existing heating systems have been replaced by new energy-efficient systems. And the thermal insulation of the façades helps to improve the energy efficiency of the buildings. With its holistic, accessible and environmentally friendly design, the housing model will enhance the quality of living for residents and ensure the future viability of the neighborhoods.
Attic Space Redefined: Future Proof Solutions for Growing Demand of Housing
The project also included the creation of almost 100 new apartments, in addition to the extensive renovation work. What is unique about these newly constructed apartments is their location. They have been built on top of existing buildings. “The roof-top flats are timber frame structures. This construction model shortens build times and improves cost-efficiency,” underlines Drees & Sommer’s project manager. The timber frame components were partially prefabricated before construction began, allowing for fast assembly. In this way, building times can be shortened by up to 50 percent.
Growth without Land Consumption: Ecological Benefits of Rooftop Constructions
In addition to savings in cost and time, there are environmental advantages to the construction of apartments in this way: one is that upward extensions do not involve soil surface sealing. This environmentally friendly building method means better air quality and biodiversity, while the unsealed soil surfaces can continue to provide a habitat for plants and animals. Additionally, green spaces with trees in city quarters have a cooling effect and generally improve water retention in the soil. These upward extensions therefore provide new homes for people while allowing a climate-friendly design of the outdoor spaces.
Progress out of the Rubble: Hurdles during Construction
The construction work was carried out while the buildings were occupied. A tenant management team, formed by Drees & Sommer, transparently communicated with the residents. And newsletters kept tenants updated and informed them of all measures, upcoming changes and work progress.
Subject Matter Expert on the Construction Site
The urban development project was commissioned by Adler Real Estate AG in 2018, then owner of the neighborhoods. There was a change of ownership to LEG Wohnen while the construction work was already underway. During this time, to make the transition as smooth as possible, Drees & Sommer acted as a key subject matter expert. Drees & Sommer was in charge of coordination and the transfer of all relevant information to the new developers, given that the company was involved in the project right from the start.
What has been implemented in Göttingen and Wolfsburg can serve as a model for other cities. Neighborhood developments of this kind often combine residential space with local stores, commercial premises and social facilities for young people and senior citizens. In many cases these developments are created out of existing urban quarters or residential areas. These are renovated on a large scale, which offers the opportunity to integrate new elements into the new residential area.