Munich's Schwabing-Freimann High-Rise: A Historic Standoff
A controversial high-rise project in Munich's Schwabing-Freimann district has sparked debate among local politicians and heritage preservationists. While politicians support the plan, heritage protection has raised concerns about the historic building's heritage integrity.
Architect Fabian Ochs of OSA, a Munich firm, proposed an alternative approach: erecting the 12-story curved high-rise next to the protected historic factory building at Isarring 11. The former Hesselberger leather factory, used as a 'training institution' for Jewish youth during the Nazi era, holds significant Jewish historical heritage. Ilse Hesselberger, the former owner, was deported and murdered in Poland in 1941.
The Munich Commission for Urban Design and the District Council of Schwabing-Freimann envision a high-rise at the location on the Middle Ring. City building director Elisabeth Merk plans to consult with the Israelite Religious Community, politics, and heritage preservation to find a solution for the high-rise project.
In other developments, Henn Architects will redesign the passage on Nymphenburger Street leading to the future Apple campus in monochromatic style. At the square with the water basin, a kindergarten, fitness center, gastronomy, and a café are planned to 'invite enjoyment of the west sun in the evenings'. Additionally, two new buildings, a hotel and a boarding house, are planned next to the former Siemens high-rise in Obersendling, fitting into the existing architectural concept.
The high-rise project in Schwabing-Freimann remains a contentious issue, with stakeholders seeking a solution that respects the historic building's heritage integrity while allowing for modern development. Meanwhile, other projects in the city continue to progress, shaping Munich's urban landscape.
