Woldenmey-Siedlung
Woldenmey 49, Hafer Vöhde 20–24, Herbrechterweg 1–5; Liethschulteweg 2–14, 44329 Dortmund
The Woldenmey-Siedlung located in Derne, a north-eastern district of Dortmund, was built at the end of the 1960s as a typical contemporary large housing estate on a greenfield site. At the time of its creation, it was regarded as a prime example of urban planning. Built between 1967 and 1969 largely in modern prefabricated construction by Hoesch-Wohnungsbaugesellschaft (a predecessor company of Wohnbau Westfalen GmbH and Vivawest Wohnen GmbH), the houses, which were up to twelve storeys high, were intended primarily to offer Hoesch-Stahl AG employees and their families inexpensive and modern living space. The family-friendly overall picture is rounded off by extensive green and open spaces.
From a bird's eye view, the fourteen buildings of the quarter with H-shaped floor plans form a diamond. In order to avoid the monotonous character of high-rise housing estates, the houses were arranged staggered in height and offset from each other. The more than 400 apartments are embedded in a spacious, well-kept green area with play areas and quiet zones. The network of roads in the inner settlement area is car-free. So children can play here without worries. Benches and meadows are ideal for relaxing or for exchange between neighbours and friends.
The outdoor facilities were redesigned between 2014 and 2015. The bright and barrier-free entrance areas significantly enhanced living comfort. Especially for older people and families with children, Woldenmey has since become considerably more attractive. A kindergarten is within walking distance and a primary school is located in such a way that children do not have to cross any roads on their way to school. These services are supplemented by a day care centre in the settlement itself. In the traditional washhouse, which was actually already available to the first inhabitants at the end of the 1960s, the tenants can still do their laundry in the machines provided there.
Vivawest has opened a new service office in the settlement in 2013. Homeowner and janitors take care of the interests of residents and potential tenants directly on site. The premises are also made available for neighbourly and voluntary activities as required, which make a significant contribution to improving the quality of life and living in the neighbourhood. The planning and implementation of such initiatives by the residents themselves also ensures that the commitment is actually geared to their needs.
