The Reimlingen Monastery shows how the serial addition of stories to existing buildings can serve as an innovative instrument for sustainable local development © Schlosser plan.Projekt
The Reimlingen Monastery near Nördlingen, Bavaria, exemplifies how the serial addition of stories to existing buildings can serve as an innovative instrument for sustainable local development. On the site of a former monastery, the additional stories built in wood not only provided urgently needed housing space; they are also a respectful further development of the historic building structure. Florian Eitel, sales manager at Schlosser Holzbau, will speak about the project at the International Timber Construction Conference.
The project involved adding two, and partly three, floors using prefabricated timber elements. The basis for this was a precise digital inventory, 3D laser scans, and BIM-supported planning, thanks to which the new components could be precisely adapted to the existing load-bearing structure. This minimized construction time and on-site interventions, while maximizing the quality of execution. The result is a harmonious combination of preserving the architecture that defines the local townscape and forward-looking uses of the building.
The process followed a clearly structured sequence and was based on the construction team principle, which ensured close collaboration between the planning department, construction team, and the client throughout all phases. First, a structural analysis of the existing building was done to determine load-bearing reserves and potential points of intervention. Even during this early phase, the participating trades and specialist planners were involved in the development of the extension. This way, construction solutions, manufacturing details, and logistical processes could be assessed realistically and optimized before actual construction began. Based on the results of this assessment, a system was developed: The elements for the additional stories were prefabricated in the factory and then assembled on-site within just a few days. Precise coordination of planning, production, and assembly resulted in an efficient construction process. The construction team approach proved to be a key factor of success: It promoted knowledge transfer, quality decision-making, and a shared sense of responsibility across all disciplines and trades – a fundamental prerequisite for serial, high-quality additions of stories to existing buildings.
The project exemplifies a new approach in housing construction and urban development: Rethinking existing buildings – as a resource and future opportunity for a sustainable building culture.
Thursday, Dec. 3, 2025
3:10 – 3:45 p.m.
IHF PROLOGUE III
