Waldspirale, Residential structure in Darmstadt, Germany
Waldspirale is a residential building in Darmstadt with a curved U-shape and a diagonal roofline that climbs through twelve stories, covered in greenery. The facade features irregular windows and colorful ceramic tiles, while a courtyard with a small lake and playground sits at the center.
The project began in the late 1990s when a local housing association invited Friedensreich Hundertwasser to design the complex. The building was finished in 2000 as one of the artist's final works before his death.
The name refers to the spiral shape of the structure and the forest-like greenery that grows from its windows and balconies. This mix of living quarters and plants shows how architecture can blend natural elements into daily life in the city.
The complex is a private residence and can only be viewed from the outside, though visitors can walk along the facade and around the central courtyard. The building sits in the eastern part of Darmstadt and is within walking distance or a short ride from the train station.
Each of the more than 1000 windows has a different size and shape, giving residents individually framed views and light conditions in their apartments. Recycled materials were incorporated into the construction, and many walls feature ceramic tiles that were handcrafted on site.
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