Mecanoo has been selected by a twelve-member jury to develop the new design for the replacement of the current insurance building at Maximilianstrasse 53 in Munich, developed by Versicherungskammer Bayern. The design team is composed of Mecanoo, Realgrün, Buro Happold, and DGI.
The competition aimed to gather innovative entries for the new building at Maximilianstr. 53, incorporating the portion at Sternstrasse 8. Eleven architectural teams from across Europe participated, with the task of honouring the sensitive location and its historical surroundings.
Chaired by Prof. Anett-Maud Joppien, the jury comprised architects, landscape architects, city planning representatives, and city council members. After two days of deliberation, Mecanoo's design was unanimously awarded first place.
Mecanoo’s design delivers a special roof terrace, designed as a roof pavilion, and serves as an architectural landmark and highlight of the building, providing a breathtaking view over Munich. It offers a clear, timeless architectural language that respects history while embracing modernity.
Arne Lijbers, Architect/Partner at Mecanoo: "Our design is an open structure, ready for unpredictable change, and reflects the timeless quality of the city's context and the use of the building."
Prof. Dr. Frank Walthes, Chairman of the Board, highlighted the new building's significance in Munich's history, affirming the Insurance Chamber's commitment to the city. Demolition and construction work are set to commence at the end of the year.