Architects: SHA Scheffler Helbich Architekten
Photos: Christian Eblenkamp

From the ashes: The rise, decline and revival of the blast furnace industry can be observed very well in the example of the Phoenix West technology and service location. After the closure and dismantling of the plant, the area has been developing into a pioneering urban project that is emblematic of the successful structural transformation of the Ruhr region and was recently awarded the German Urban Development Prize. On the western side of the site, two blast furnaces have been preserved as central structural elements alongside the historic brick halls, which today are impressive witnesses to North Rhine-Westphalia's coal and steel industries. It is precisely at this intersection that Phoenix West is located, an office building designed by SHA Scheffler Helbich Architekten and occupied by the same architectural firm and other companies. The façades of the new building play with the design possibilities of brick. The special assortment, consisting of two different water-struck bricks, both original coal-fired with fine nuances ensures a lively façade appearance that picks up the colours of the surroundings and at the same time creates a high degree of independence.