ADVERTISING
The science city of Darmstadt relies on modern building research to save a unique cultural monument
At a press conference, the City of Darmstadt, together with RheinMain University of Applied Sciences and TU Darmstadt, presented a digital research project on the historically appropriate restoration of the von Herff family mausoleum. The results are based on a master's thesis by Timo Vössing (RheinMain University of Applied Sciences), which involved a three-dimensional architectural survey of the mausoleum in the Old Cemetery.
The starting point was the erection of scaffolding in October 2024 as part of urgently needed roof renovation. The survey enabled a precise condition analysis of the plastered facade, documenting numerous defects – including dampness, vegetation growth, and plaster defects.
A 3D laser scan was used to create a distortion-free digital model , which served as the basis for a so-called "Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM)" model. This model combines restoration, structural engineering, and architectural history insights and will serve as the foundation for future renovation work.
Focus on preserving the cultural monument
Michael Kolmer, the city's heritage conservation officer, emphasizes the importance of the building:
"This remarkable cultural monument in Darmstadt must be secured and preserved for the future. I am pleased that we can take a first step with the work on the roof of the mausoleum and am grateful for the excellent cooperation with the Technical University of Darmstadt and the RheinMain University of Applied Sciences."
The master's thesis, supervised by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Friedmar Voormann (RheinMain University of Applied Sciences) and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Clemens Brünenberg (TU Darmstadt), highlights the opportunities offered by digital methods for the preservation of historical monuments. Vössing himself says:
"I hope that such models will help to better organize restoration work and to protect monuments more sustainably in the future."
Measures start in April – funding is being reviewed
The restoration of the copper roof, based on historical models, is scheduled to begin in April 2025. The natural stone parapet wall is also a priority. The aim is to protect the structure from further moisture damage. Further restoration work is planned, but depends on the availability of funding.
The Herff Mausoleum, built in 1929, is considered an important testament to Darmstadt's urban history with its expressionist architectural style, domed memorial room and artistic design – including reliefs by Johannes Ilmari Auerbach and bronze elements by Ali Bonte-Lichtenstein.
Further information
Further information, photos and plans regarding the history and construction can be found on the city's website:
👉 www.darmstadt.de/mausoleumvonherff
(DARMSTADT – REd/PSD/stip)
