Herkules-Hochhaus, High-rise building in Ehrenfeld, Germany
The Herkules-Hochhaus is a 31-story residential tower in Cologne featuring distinctive exterior panels in blue, orange, and purple enameled metal. The structure rises about 102 meters and houses approximately 427 compact apartments of varying sizes.
The building was completed in 1972 as part of Cologne's urban housing program that promoted vertical residential solutions during the 1960s and 1970s. It represented one of many efforts to address housing needs through high-rise development across the city.
The tower is locally recognized for its bold visual impact, having received a satirical architectural award in 2005. Its vivid colored metal panels have become a defining feature of how visitors see this area.
The building offers visitors a clear view of its distinctive colored metal panels and impressive height from the surrounding streets. It is best explored during daytime hours when the vibrant exterior cladding is fully visible.
A swimming pool and sauna facility sits on the 31st floor for residents, providing views over the city. This amenity was rare for residential towers when built and remains a distinctive feature of that era.
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