Seven Apartments Created Through Four-Story Wood-Frame Addition in Cologne

In Cologne, Germany, seven additional apartments have been created through a four-story wood-frame addition to an existing building. The project, spearheaded by FH Finnholz GmbH & Co. KG, adds two units to each of the second, third, and fourth floors, while the fifth floor features a staggered floor plan with one apartment and a terrace. The topping-out ceremony was held in September 2026, marking a significant development in the city’s urban landscape.

FH Finnholz, a leading construction company specializing in timber, wood-frame, and modular construction, has been instrumental in this project. According to Matthias Boening, the managing director of Boening & Glatzel Immobilien GmbH, the timber construction method was crucial for the project's success. He explained that with a heavier construction method, only two stories would have been feasible, making the project economically unviable. The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) allowed for the creation of four additional stories, significantly expanding the living space on a developed plot of land.

The project also benefited from early collaboration with FH Holzbaustatik GmbH & Co. KG, which provided structural engineering, detailed design, and building physics analyses. This close cooperation ensured that the structural framework, component layouts, and thermal and sound insulation were coordinated from the design phase. The production planning for the CLT elements and the integration of the windows were also taken into account during this preparatory phase.

FH Finnholz’s expertise in timber construction is further evidenced by its acquisition of Stakline GmbH in 2024, a company specializing in windows, doors, facades, and sun protection. This acquisition has expanded the company’s business portfolio and solidified its position as a comprehensive partner for sophisticated construction projects. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality is reflected in its use of Kerto glued-laminated timber, which consistently meets the highest quality standards and is PEFC-certified.

The project highlights the potential of timber construction in urban development, offering a sustainable and space-efficient solution for expanding living spaces in densely populated areas. With the growing demand for sustainable building practices, projects like this one are likely to become more prevalent in the coming years.

This development in Cologne showcases the versatility and benefits of timber construction, setting a precedent for future projects in the region. As the industry continues to evolve, such projects will play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban living.