Kölner Wohnungsgenossenschaft eG and GROPYUS have established a joint project partnership for a new construction venture in Cologne-Merkenich. The plot, spanning approximately 6,208 m² at Höfenweg 46-76, is earmarked for the construction of 96 residential units. The project is distinguished by the first-time application of modular timber construction using automated manufacturing in Cologne, making it the city's largest timber construction project to date.
For Kölner Wohnungsgenossenschaft eG, this undertaking marks its entry into an alternative building system. This system is designed to combine reduced construction times with high execution quality and ecological sustainability. Of the 96 planned flats, which will be distributed across six modern multi-family buildings, 30 units will be realised with public funding.
Innovation and Efficiency in Timber Construction
GROPYUS develops and manufactures turnkey multi-family homes using timber construction. The process, from planning through robot-assisted prefabrication to on-site assembly, is fully digitalised and managed from a single source. For Kölner Wohnungsgenossenschaft eG, this cooperation represents an innovation, as the project will be realised entirely in timber construction with serially manufactured wall and ceiling elements. According to GROPYUS, this method can reduce construction time by up to 50 percent while increasing the energy and ecological quality of the buildings.
Christoph Moossen, Chairman of the Board of Kölner Wohnungsgenossenschaft eG, stated that by partnering with GROPYUS, they are deliberately pursuing new construction methods. He explained that timber construction offers the possibility to create good, affordable housing for members more quickly, with fewer resources, yet reliably. Moossen emphasised the importance of this partnership as a key component for the future viability of the cooperative's construction programme.
Project Responsibility and Schedule
For GROPYUS, the project represents an important step in expanding its activities in the Cologne region. The company is responsible for all phases of the construction project end-to-end, from planning and manufacturing to handover. This is intended to ensure clearly defined responsibilities and high transparency throughout the entire project.
Philipp Erler, CEO of GROPYUS, highlighted his pleasure regarding the collaboration and the joint project. He noted that trust in GROPYUS's construction method and the willingness to explore new avenues form the basis for successful partnerships. Especially in metropolitan areas like Cologne, innovative courage is required to deliver much-needed housing more quickly, cost-effectively, and sustainably. Erler concluded by pointing out that Kölner Wohnungsgenossenschaft is a strong and forward-looking client.
The planned start of construction for the project is scheduled for the second quarter of 2027. Completion is expected by the end of 2028.
