Typologically inspired by Theodor Fischer's historic "Ledigenheim," the spatial organization proposed by Hild und K responds to functional requirements, separating areas to accommodate and serve different groups. Additionally, a series of sheltered courtyards on the exterior serve as a resource to foster user integration.
For the construction of the new shelter, the architectural team considered a modular construction that would also meet the criteria of flexibility. In this sense, the supporting structure consists of a prefabricated concrete skeleton, allowing it to be dismantled and adapted to different future scenarios.
On the exterior, in reference to Gottfried Semper, the building envelope is conceived as a decorative "garment," composed of prefabricated timber-framed elements painted in a brick-red hue. Inside, the colour palette and careful selection of materials—such as wood, linoleum, polished flooring, and ceramic tiles—were chosen not only for their durability but also for their ability to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Overnight shelter Lotte-Branz-Strasse by Hild und K. Photography by Michael Heinrich.
Description of project by Hild und K
Matthias Haber, Andreas Hild and Dionys Ottl’s work as architects is fundamentally guided by a strong sense of social responsibility. After all, the built environment profoundly shapes how a society experiences and lives together. The planning of the overnight shelter with medical facilities, opened on 6 May 2024, was particularly close to their hearts. In contrast to the monotony of standard container constructions, they designed this refuge for people in extreme need with exceptional care and attention to detail.
Since 2013, the City of Munich has been operating a nationally unique overnight shelter for homeless men, women, and children, initially housed temporarily in a building of the former Bayern Barracks. With the completion of a new facility in Schwabing-Freimann offering 730 places, both the standards and range of services have been significantly enhanced. Those seeking shelter are no longer accommodated in rooms with eight to twelve people but rather in rooms with four beds. What’s more, the facility’s purpose has evolved from merely providing overnight accommodation to offering comprehensive support, including dedicated spaces for counselling, medical treatment, and a daytime gathering area.
To minimise conflict within the facility, separate areas are provided for different groups as well as for the initial medical screening of asylum seekers. At the same time, a certain degree of openness between spaces is essential for smooth and flexible operation. The spatial layout, based on these functional requirements, draws typological inspiration from Theodor Fischer’s historic “Ledigenheim”. Individual "building fingers" are staggered and connected only at the corners. This comb-like floor plan introduces an additional, critical quality—particularly given the uninviting location of the building amidst wholesale markets, warehouses, and parking areas: the inclusion of attractive courtyards that create additional, sheltered spaces for outdoor use. The underlying intention is “to provide the overnight guests not only with emergency assistance in a moment of acute need, but also with a ‘temporary home’”, explains office partner Matthias Haber, who is in charge of the project.
In the 1920s, when Theodor Fischer designed his men’s lodging house, the surrounding Westend district was an area shaped by industry. The residential buildings that define the area today were added only later, responding significantly to the block structure established by the architect and urban planner. Similarly, the design team hopes that the new building, located in what is currently a commercial area, might serve as an initial urban element, sparking development for a planned, mixed-use neighbourhood. In doing so, it may also ensure the facility it houses becomes integrated into the fabric of the city in the long term.
For reasons of cost and time efficiency, a modular construction approach was ideal for the project. Above a sturdy base made of precast concrete elements, the upper façade is constructed from prefabricated timber frame elements painted in a brick-red hue.
The “border” beneath the parapet is inspired by indigenous building techniques. Here, intricately profiled wooden boards cover and protect the vulnerable end-grain, shielding the structure and its joints from weathering. In the new building, these decorative coverings conceal horizontal surfaces which would otherwise be at risk from moisture. Contrary to their functional role as “sacrificial boards”—, which, unlike the components behind them, can be easily replaced if they show signs of ageing—these carefully crafted elements possess a distinctive aesthetic appeal. Through the textile-like association of the border, Hild and K also draw on their own office tradition, once again showcasing the building envelope as decorative “clothing” in the spirit of Gottfried Semper.
The interior features materials such as wood, linoleum, polished screed, and ceramic tiles—chosen for their durability yet ability to create an inviting atmosphere. The colour scheme enhances the welcoming feel and provides a sense of orientation. For instance, the wooden doors are painted in varying shades—from pine green to sky blue—depending on whether they lead to an accommodation room, bathroom, or auxiliary space.
While renewable raw materials play an important role in the façade and interior finishes, the load-bearing structure consists of a precast concrete skeleton. This construction method allows for straightforward dismantling, reconfiguration, and expansion, providing flexibility to adapt to potential future scenarios, such as changes in use. Adaptability can be considered a key sustainability factor in the lifecycle of buildings. Should efforts to address homelessness, as advocated by the European Union, prove successful, Matthias Haber describes it as a “dream task to convert the building into flats for its residents.”
