From a luxury temple to a residential oasis: This is how Mariahilfer Straße is changing!

From a luxury temple to a residential oasis: This is how Mariahilfer Straße is changing!

The plans for the former Benko building ruins on Mariahilfer Straße are taking concrete shape. At an information event, residents were presented with the new use plans, which envisage a fundamental change in the use of the building. The new concepts envisage the construction of 200 residential units and a hotel with 220 rooms, while catering facilities on the roof terrace will be completely eliminated. However, the roof area remains accessible to the public.

The change in the original planning is striking. Instead of the eight floors initially planned for luxury shops, only three floors will now be used for retail. The upper floors up to the eighth floor could serve as living space in the future, which, according to experts, can certainly be interpreted as a positive development for the city and real estate prices. This reflects the changed market situation following Signa's bankruptcy.

Optimism and skepticism from local residents

Reactions from local residents to the presentation of the new plans have been mixed. While some are optimistic about the future, others express concerns about use and building regulations. The logistical supply of the new complex will be ensured via Mariahilfer Straße and Karl-Schweighofer-Gasse, which is of central importance in the further development of the area.

The project developers, Stumpf Development GmbH, have already outlined a clear schedule. The construction documents should be submitted by the end of August, and demolition of the existing building, with the exception of the ground floor, will begin in July. Construction work is scheduled to begin in 2026, with completion by the end of 2027. Prices per square meter of up to 10,000 euros are expected for the 200 residential units.

Smart city concepts and their integration

The conversion of such properties is also considered in the context of larger urban developments. The integration of Smart City Concepts play a crucial role in urban development. These concepts include linking digital technologies with innovative strategies to increase efficiency, sustainability and quality of life in urban areas. The challenges that arise are diverse and range from data protection to high implementation costs.

Particular attention is also paid to the Smart City Charter of 2017, which encourages cities to develop their own digital strategies while ensuring transparency and citizen participation through open data. The idea of ​​the Smart City includes, among other things, climate-neutral energies and resource-saving infrastructures that not only optimize traffic but also promote social inclusion.

Numerous model projects are already being funded in Germany, meaning that cities like Munich and Hamburg benefit from innovative traffic controls. The Smart City Index 2024 has rated various cities around the world, with Zurich in first place. It is becoming clear that the challenges associated with the transformation to a smart city must be carefully planned and addressed to ensure future-oriented urban development.