- Frankfurt building experts: The trend towards roof terraces continues
In the German state of Hessen, rooftop terraces have long been a fixed part of the cityscape - and there could be even more to come. "The pressure on roof spaces is increasing," said Gerhard Greiner, President of the Hessian Chamber of Architects and Urban Planners. Therefore, ecologically sustainable aspects such as "energy generation" with photovoltaics or greening are gaining importance in the use of roofs.
Growing interest
According to Simone Zapke, head of the building authority in Frankfurt, the number of applications for rooftop terraces in Frankfurt is consistently high. However, there is increased interest in the commercial sector to use roofs differently than before: "It's also about creating attractive workspaces. This also includes incorporating the outdoors."
Furthermore, the use of roof spaces for sports facilities in school construction is being discussed. "The primary goal is to use limited space as efficiently as possible," said the building manager of the German Press Agency. In residential construction, however, the use of roof spaces is a "comfort feature."
Potential for over 500,000 additional apartments nationwide
In addition to leisure activities or sports facilities at schools, additional living space could also be created on roofs. "Of course, we will have to develop vertically," said the President of the Chamber of Architects and Urban Planners. Greiner refers to a 2019 study that showed that through the conversion and extension of office and administrative buildings nationwide, up to 560,000 additional housing units could be created.
In general, the use of roof spaces must be in line with planning and building regulations, it was stated from the building authority in Frankfurt. Safety requirements and static requirements must be considered, which, according to Zapke, requires "comprehensive planning and consultation."
The architecture of these new rooftop terraces and sports facilities is expected to be innovative, given the increasing pressure on roof spaces and the need for sustainable solutions. Due to the growing interest in creating attractive workspaces, the architecture of these rooftop structures will play a significant role in transforming the cityscape.
