At Fraunhoferstrasse 27 in Munich, owner-managed property developer Bucher Properties is delivering the Glockenhofer inner-city development scheme. Following the deconstruction of the existing building stock, which no longer met modern energy and structural standards, a new residential ensemble is taking shape at the site in the Glockenbachviertel. The Munich family business, which also manages neighbourhood developments such as the Dörnberg-Quartier in Regensburg and projects at Pasinger Marienplatz, is tailoring the new development to a mix of diverse housing formats and commercial space.
Architectural design and structural 3D concrete printing
The architectural design was produced by Birgit Bucher of the practice be_planen Architektur. The scheme was preceded by a three-year study of the historic building fabric, facade articulation and proportions along Fraunhoferstrasse. According to the architect, the objective was to carry forward the architectural heritage of the neighbourhood in a contemporary manner and establish a visible dialogue between old and new.
A defining feature of the design is an undulating bay window facade styled after a draped curtain. For the technical delivery, the project relies on an additive manufacturing method: for the first time in Germany on a five-storey residential building, 3D concrete printing technology is being utilised where the printed components simultaneously perform structural load-bearing functions and shape the facade design. The ensemble comprises three building volumes that enclose a landscaped inner courtyard.
- —Apartment sizes ranging from studios and ateliers to maisonette units and penthouses
- —A ground-floor restaurant unit designed to enliven the streetscape
- —Structured floor plans aimed at singles, couples and international professionals
Socially responsible tenant arrangements and changing market conditions
The site was originally purchased in 2018. At that point, 25 tenants resided in the property. To support the residents, the developer appointed a coordinator who moved into an empty flat on site. All tenancies were ended amicably and without legal proceedings via termination agreements, in part involving the local tenants' association. In addition to financial compensation payments and rehousing support, Bucher Properties bought condominiums in the Au district for three existing tenants to ensure they could remain in the Isar area.
Since the acquisition, the macroeconomic environment has changed considerably. Rising interest rates, escalating construction costs and altered energy prices required the company to draft a revised design for the planning application. Despite these economic headwinds, Bucher Properties remains committed to delivering the project at this historic address.
