Student Residence Boeselagerstraße

Münster, Germany

Photo © HG Esch

Drawing © KRESINGS

Architects: KRESINGS

Location: Boeselagerstraße 69-76, 48163 Münster, Germany
Year: 2014
Client: Studentenwerk Münster AöR
Landscape Architect: RMP Stephan Lenzen Landschaftsarchitekten
Structural Engineering: gantert + wiemeler ingenieurplanung, Münster
Building Physics: Hansen Ingenieure, Wuppertal
Bauphysik: Hansen Ingenieure, Wuppertal

Train of thoughts  – What is it that people expect from a new large complex of dormitories? People expect such a housing complex to make efficient and effective use of expensive space by means of a log building system and straight borders. Right angles, paths and squares, symmetrical bike parking racks, benches and green spaces allow the surface to be used in an optimal manner; in addition, they make straight lines appear orderly and smooth.

However, symmetry and efficient use of surfaces may also have a chilly and static effect. Why is it that medieval urban structures with its crooked streets the ends of which are not visible, with its detailed structure and its scale, make us feel comfortable? What is it that attracts us in such a magic way, without mentioning the cute facades? It is the instantly sensual and physical effect, a sense of home in terms of warmth and security. Those with an architecture-academic mind may despicably say: ”A doll house!“. The body, however, exclaims: “That is exactly where I feel understood and cradled.”

The complex of student housing erected at the Boeselagerstraße in the city of Münster takes up these ideas and, with a total of 535 residents on a living space of 18,000 m⇢ after all, creates a flowing, asymmetrically arranged urban space of its own which conveys an almost rural sense of security rather than having an intimidating effect.