The Hochland Site in Steingaden

“What can each individual element, building, and programme contribute to the revitalisation of the town centre when connected to an attractively redesigned market square? And who will recognise in this contribution an opportunity worth seizing?”

The project “Leere Hülle (Empty Shell)” explored a broad range of strategies for revitalising the centre of Steingaden. Following an initial investigation of the town centre as a whole, the study focused in greater detail on the Hochland site and its valuable yet difficult-to-redevelop listed building stock. The project addressed the following key themes:

PROGRAMME
What new uses—such as housing, education, or leisure facilities—could fill gaps in the existing local offer or even act as catalysts for attracting new user groups?

ADAPTIVE REUSE
Which programmes could activate the existing buildings of the former brewery, dairy, and production complex in a meaningful and economically viable way? To what extent could these new uses also contribute to the long-term development and revitalisation of the town centre?

HERITAGE
The introduction of new uses inevitably requires adaptations to the site and its buildings. How can the historic qualities of the ensemble be treated with care while allowing contemporary interventions to become visible, positive impulses for the future development of Steingaden and its architectural culture?

LANDSCAPE
How can the distinctive relationship between buildings and landscape, between built form and open space—which defines the unique character of Steingaden and its historic centre—be preserved and strengthened through thoughtful design proposals?