Inadequate thermal insulation calls for energy-efficient refurbishment. There is a need for action both in multi-storey residential buildings and in private detached houses. There is also a desire to expand living space and modernize buildings in their entirety. With the generational change currently being observed, there is also a greater willingness to renovate on the part of owners.

An integrated energy-efficient district concept has already been developed for Detmerode as part of the KfW's "Energy-efficient urban refurbishment" funding program. For three years, a refurbishment management team advised residents on all aspects of refurbishment options for their buildings. The aim was and is to meet the increasing energy requirements while at the same time preserving Detmerode's characteristic townscape.

Detmerode has been recognized as a district with a building stock and urban design worthy of protection. It is therefore a particular concern to pursue the further development of the entire district and the buildings in such a way that the architectural and urban design qualities of the district are safeguarded, and potential for densification and adaptations to contemporary uses are carefully coordinated.

For this reason, the council of the city of Wolfsburg has decided to have a preservation statute drawn up in conjunction with a development concept for the Detmerode district in order to preserve the urban character and yet respond to the wishes of the residents.