Restoration work along the Alsterglacis
Heritage conservation in Hamburg

At first glance, the historic retaining walls along the Alsterglacis appeared largely intact. However, once the facing course was removed, a different picture emerged: the inner wall showed cracks and damage that required extensive repair work.

Historic Walls and Masonry

The Alsterglacis is one of Hamburg’s oldest streets. Along the Alster, historic retaining walls stabilise the embankment, whilst smaller bridge structures span watercourses and sunken areas. Parts of these structures date back to 1901 and are listed as historic monuments.
Restoration in accordance with heritage conservation guidelines

Section by section, our team removed the facing course in order to subsequently restore it using clinker bricks in the historic format. In addition, re-pointing, grouting and other measures were carried out to repair the masonry.

All materials and workmanship had to be based on the existing historic structure in order to permanently preserve the site’s characteristic appearance.

Foundation for further construction phases

The successful completion of the work impressed the client. This was reflected, amongst other things, in an extension to the contract covering further areas of the site. In addition, plans are in place to preserve the historic balustrade. In collaboration with POSSEHL’s sister company Bennert, this work shall be carried out in the course of the year and will include, amongst other things, corrosion protection measures and the replacement of missing components.