“Did you know that the Althoffblock is more than just a residential area? It’s a living piece of Dortmund’s history. Begun in 1914, the Althoffblock stands as a testament to urban living. It showcases how communities can thrive within city limits.
The Spar- und Bauverein Dortmund eG was founded here. In 2007, they managed about 12,000 apartments in Dortmund. Around 1,600 of these were within the Althoffblock. This makes it a significant part of the city’s housing landscape. The Althoffblock isn’t just a collection of buildings. It’s an ensemble recognized on Dortmund’s list of monuments. This recognition covers the entire area rather than individual buildings.
The heart of the Althoffblock lies at the intersection of Althoffstrasse and Roseggerstrasse. These streets form a cross in the southern part of Innenstadt-West. The entrances to Althoffstrasse are marked by gate entries. These gates separate the area from busier streets. The four-story residential buildings enclose large courtyards. These courtyards offer green spaces, playgrounds, and meadows. These spaces are exclusively for residents.
Access for cars and garages are limited to property management. Some gardens lack any vehicle access at all. Residents often lovingly maintain the front yards and inner courtyards. However, a renovation project started in 2022 aims to standardize these areas. This has led to protests from some members of the cooperative. For decades, the Althoffblock has offered standardized apartments with individual building designs.
Initially, the Althoffblock primarily housed workers from nearby factories. It also provided homes for junior civil servants and employees. Most apartments range from 45 to 75 square meters. Today, fewer families reside in the Althoffblock. A 2002 report indicated that about 50% of residents were over 60. A third were under 30.
The Genossenschaft collaborates with Caritas. Together, they run a “Nachbarschaftstreff” at Steubenstrasse 16. This neighborhood center focuses on elderly residents. It offers courses and publishes a small newspaper. Caritas also operates a social station.
Planned in 1913 by Dücking & Jaenisch, the Althoffblock reflects reform architecture. The Althoffstrasse ensemble stands out as a significant example of Dortmund’s architectural history. The two sandstone archways are remarkable. The uniquely designed doors give each entrance its own identity.
In June 2024, the council decided to protect the Althoffblock as a historical area. This allows the heritage authority to supervise modernization work. The goal is to prevent damaging design mistakes. Residents appreciate the 70 to 110-year-old buildings. They value the green inner courtyards as urban retreats. As cooperative members, they are concerned about renovations. These are sometimes carried out without their knowledge or consent.
Some measures have led to errors. Front yards have been sealed and green spaces redesigned. Courtyards have been radically altered. A large bicycle storage is being built. The residents weren’t asked about it beforehand. Bright lighting has been installed in various locations. Existing gas heaters are to be replaced. Residents want cooperative rents based on real costs. They seek equal participation in decisions affecting their living environment. The Althoffblock is a neighborhood where history and community intertwine.”