Developing Plans for Revitalization: SEG's Vision for the Underdeveloped Surroundings of Rotes Hochhaus
The city of Wiesbaden's subsidiary, Stadtentwicklungsgesellschaft Wiesbaden (SEG), has taken ownership of the iconic "Red High-Rise" in the Schelmengraben district, located on Karl-Marx-Straße. The building, long a symbol of stagnation and decay, is set for a comprehensive transformation by 2027.
The Red High-Rise, with its 73 units, has been vacant for many years, with signs of neglect, failed investors, and closed entrances. The facade, consisting of asbestos-containing fiber cement panels, needs complete replacement, including energy upgrading. Technical brownfield issues, such as outdated fire protection technology and design shortcomings, will also be addressed.
SEG's plans for the area extend beyond renovation. The company aims to enhance the character of the Schelmengraben quarter, turning the poor reputation of the area into a positive through tangible improvements. The CEO of SEG sees potential in managing vacancy for temporary alternative housing, social housing projects, or targeted retreat offers for existing tenants.
The revitalization of the area aligns with the vision of the 15-Minute City, first proposed by Frankfurt architect Ernst May in the 60s. The Schelmengraben meets this criteria with a clinic, forest, schools, and potential local supply. Plans include a modern full-service provider with up to 2,000 square meters of sales area.
Affordable housing and neighborhood-appropriate offers are also part of the plans. The structural decay in the area, which has worsened over the years, will be countered with the densification of housing. SEG's vision is to create added value for the entire quarter, not just the Red High-Rise.
The acquisition of the Red High-Rise and adjacent plots, totaling 17,000 square meters, is a significant step towards this vision. Around 11,000 square meters of the acquired land will be used for new urban development. The current occupancy rate in the Red High-Rise is 75 percent, but with the revitalization plans, this is expected to increase.
As the project progresses, further updates from SEG or Wiesbaden city development sources are likely to provide more insight into the specific changes and renovation details for the Red High-Rise. The transformation of the Red High-Rise promises to breathe new life into the Schelmengraben quarter, making it a vibrant and desirable part of Wiesbaden.
The comprehensive transformation of the Red High-Rise, encompassing 73 units, will not only serve as a replacement of its asbestos-containing facade but also a revitalization of the neighboring home-and-garden areas in the Schelmengraben district. SEG's vision for the revitalized quarter includes the creation of sustainable lifestyle options, such as affordable housing, social housing projects, and targeted retreat offers for its residents.
