The endeavor is founded upon these fundamental tenets:
The city of Göttingen is undertaking a significant renovation project on a timber-frame house located at Düstere Straße 8. The total cost of the renovation is estimated to be approximately 2.6 million euros.
This historic building, one of the oldest in Düstere Straße and one of the oldest timber-frame houses in Göttingen, was constructed in 1528/29 and is a Central German side-hall house. Over the centuries, it has served various purposes, including housing an upper-class citizen, a shop, and three apartments.
The renovation aims to ensure sustainable future use while maintaining the historical integrity of the building. This includes the restoration of historic components of the facade and inside the building, as well as the implementation of energy-efficient insulation measures compatible with the timber framing. The damaged supporting structure, from the roof down to the foundation and footings, is being restored.
Chimneys will be demolished and rebuilt as necessary. A Baroque staircase installed in the 18th century will be preserved and restored. Timber experts and building researchers are accompanying the renovation work to ensure its authenticity and adherence to preservation standards.
The building's original layout will be preserved, with clever floor plan improvements creating an additional small apartment, resulting in a total of four rental units and a commercial space in the city center. The current tenants will be able to move back in after the renovation.
The building's ground floor originally had a two-story hall, with the rear part having an intermediate ceiling. After the 30-year war, the current ceiling over the ground floor was installed in 1647/48. In the 18th century, a Baroque staircase was installed.
The city of Göttingen took over the heavily dilapidated building in 2016, along with all its obligations. Suitable specialist firms with proven experience in timber framing and monument preservation were found through public tendering processes. However, the specific company awarded the renovation project has not been disclosed.
The renovation work began in May 2024 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The city of Göttingen looks forward to preserving this important piece of its historical heritage for future generations.
