Don Camillo and Peppone

The Don Camillo+Peppone high-rise buildings have dominated the Detmerode skyline since the 1960s. With 13 and 23 storeys, they are visible far beyond the district. NEULAND has set itself the task of preserving these two landmarks and giving them a new look.

The buildings have been completely gutted and are being rebuilt around the existing shell. This will create 212 modern flats with contemporary floor plans, barrier-free access and spacious, brand-new balconies. The new façade with its metal elements is a deliberate reminder of the automotive city of Wolfsburg.

About the architectural designer

The Canadian architectural designer Chris Doray developed the design for the revitalisation. His studio in Vancouver is known worldwide for sophisticated high-rise projects. For Don Camillo+Peppone, he has designed a façade that references Wolfsburg's history with automotive elements. Glass lifts and light-flooded corridors create a completely new living experience in the towers.

Climate protection through conservation

At Don Camillo+Peppone, NEULAND shows how modern construction and climate protection can go hand in hand. Instead of demolishing the buildings and building new ones, the shell remains intact. This saves enormous amounts of so-called grey energy, i.e. the energy required for demolition, production and transport of building materials.

The result is impressive: The refurbishment reduces CO₂ emissions by more than 70 per cent compared to complete demolition and new construction. After the refurbishment, both buildings achieve the KfW 55 standard, which is also more than 70 per cent less than before the refurbishment.