THE ZIPPER, DÜSSELDORF 15
THE ZIPPER DÜSSELDORF
Unzipping an unusual mix
The Berlin-based practice behind a mixed use project in Düsseldorf containing healthcare, hotel and residential functions, speaks to Tom Boddy about its first high rise building – and its zip-like aluminium facade
R
ising 19 stories above the grounds of the historic Düsseldorf healthcare institution of Dominikus-
Krankenhaus, the Zipper RKM 740 Tower stands as an impressive and innovative hybrid high-rise structure, reflecting an equally unusual mix of uses. Designed by international practice
J.MAYER.H. (JMH), the tower sits on the left bank of the Rhine, which winds through the heart of Düsseldorf. The building’s presence is enhanced by its perforated aluminium facade, which alludes to a series of horizontal zips in different stages of openness, resulting in a dynamic series of curved forms.
This stacked series of varying facades enables a “gentle arrangement” of open and closed areas, say the architects. As well as the already unique design of this building, it offers panoramic views to users, encompassing both the famous river and the vibrant cityscape. The white, wave-like elements semi- organically delineate the building’s levels on the otherwise glazed facades. They mirror the ripples of the Rhine, creating a strong sense of movement. The mixed use building, which was completed in 2022, stacks a range of medical facilities beneath residential levels and ‘hotel’’-style provision. According to the architects, the arrival of the Zipper Tower
elevates the pre-existing hospital to a level of national significance, positioning it as the “prototype of a hospital for the future.”
Context
The project represents a pivotal addition to the city’s urban landscape. In recent years, Düsseldorf’s increasing urban density has led to the development of new varieties of hybrid high rises to serve demand while maximising the use of land. The Zipper is part of the latest generation of these mixed- use concepts, and helps align with the local context by introducing the new medical facilities alongside residential spaces. The opportunity to design the tower came to fruition when JMH won an international design competition for the project back in 2011. For the architects, this project holds “special significance,” as it marks their first high-rise design.
The project is an integral part of a broader vision aimed at “maintaining and modernising” the hospital on the historic grounds of the former Dominikus- Krankenhaus. Originally established in 1892 as the successor to a Dominican hospital, the healthcare institution underwent a fundamental transformation in 1972-73 with the construction of a new building and the demolition of the old hospital. The architects explain that over the past decade now, the facility has been in the
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