The current state of the site includes a power plant undergoing conversion into a waste-to-energy facility and a central laundry complex set to discontinue operations by 2026. Historically utilized for industrial purposes, the area is now in the midst of a functional rejuvenation phase aimed at revitalizing the urban landscape. Masterplans are underway to establish a health center catering to the elderly, accompanied by senior apartments, an indoor swimming facility, and a neighborhood park.

Urban development

Directly opposite the site is Josefwiese, the last green oasis located in the center of the Kreis 5 district behind the viaduct. The project sees an opportunity to extend the public realm, eventually creating a half courtyard surrounded by a horseshoe shape of proposed blocks, a common typology in this context.

Architecture

Rather than demolishing the laundry complex, the project aims to integrate the new additions of 400 dwellings seamlessly with the elderly apartments. The laundry complex, which played a vital role in servicing the community for generations and is a core memory for the citizens, will be transformed into health facilities such as a public swimming pool, gym, and daycare center. Currently used as an art exhibition space after the laundry service ceased, the complex will be preserved and its interior facilities improved. This will make it a central hub for the complex and the neighborhood, fostering intergenerational interaction in daily life while preserving the city’s collective memories.