In the renovation of House Spröde, SSP prioritized preservation over replacement, demonstrating how existing buildings can be thoughtfully adapted for contemporary use. Wherever possible, original materials from the house, designed by architect Fido Spröde in 1954, were carefully retained and reused.
Address/Directions
Haus Fido Spröde
Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 8
44225 Dortmund
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Every building saved from demolition is a small beacon of hope in the face of the planet's climate crisis. In 2019, the architecture firm SSP established the GreytoGreen® initiative as a framework for developing architecture rooted in sustainability.
When architect Thomas Schmidt of SSP first fell in love with a single-family home in the southern part of Dortmund, it was in a state of neglect. Yet despite its deteriorated condition, the house had already withstood more than six decades. Originally built in 1954 from a design by the now largely forgotten architect Fido Spröde, it has been carefully revitalized through a series of deliberately restrained interventions that bring it up to contemporary living standards. Wherever possible, existing materials were preserved and reused. Every decision was guided by respect for what was already there.
Today, this 65-year-old home is prepared to serve another 30 to 40 years, without expending the energy and resources that new construction would have required.
Less, but better
As a classic postwar housing development, the home follows an elegantly simple structure, its form reflecting the archetype of the house itself. A closer look, however, reveals the intelligence behind its understated architecture. The clear, efficient floor plan readily accommodates adaptation. On the ground floor, removing two walls and three doors created an open living space that extends from east to west, establishing a new visual connection to the garden.
Every material was carefully evaluated to determine whether it could be preserved. That may sound obvious, but it remains far from common practice. The original clay roof tiles, the tile and natural stone façade, the timber windows, and even the radiator covers from the home's construction period were all retained.
The only visible intervention to the exterior is the matte black folded metal cladding that now encloses the entry vestibule. Its contemporary character is unmistakable while remaining respectful of the original architecture.
FSB 1023 integrates seamlessly yet discreetly into the architectural language of the 1950s. According to SSP, the lever handle offers outstanding performance in both technical and functional terms.
In 2022, SSP's renovation of House Fido Spröde received the prestigious international Houses Award.
