As part of Munich's extensive conversion of former barracks sites into residential neighborhoods, the Prinz-Eugen barracks underwent complete redevelopment. The southeastern portion—approximately half of the nearly 30-hectare site—was acquired by the City of Munich and celebrated upon completion as Germany's largest timber-construction model settlement (see CUBE Munich 04|20). The northeastern side was developed by private real estate firms. Klaus Wohnbau purchased a 4,500 m² parcel and engaged the Munich-based architectural practice delaossa architekten, headed by Tobias de la Ossa and Julia Kreienbrink, to master-plan the site. Between 2017 and 2019, the Bogenhausen district gained a new residential complex comprising 16 atrium houses and 16 apartments, complemented by underground parking and carefully designed landscaping by landscape architects Lynen & Dittmar from Freising. Completed in 2019, this energy-efficient hybrid construction development was unveiled under the name "Prinz".

The site's distinctive character emerges from its exceptional location, abundant greenery, and diverse architectural typologies—a combination that shaped the planners' approach to designing spacious atrium houses and cleanly articulated townhouses. The hybrid concrete-and-wood construction reflects local building codes for this location. Despite their structural and residential differences, the individual houses maintain visual cohesion through consistent materiality and coordinated color palettes. Along Ruth-Drexel-Straße stand four-story townhouses, with atrium houses arranged protectively behind them around a carefully proportioned, decidedly private courtyard. The three-story atrium houses feature south-facing roof terraces as extensions of their upper levels. The townhouses, conversely, engage the surrounding landscape on all sides through sheltered loggias that cantilever expressively from the façade. Throughout the complex, the façades display shifting sand tones, while balconies and entrance features are executed in precast concrete.

The buildings' high energy performance standard (Efficiency House 40) necessitates substantial wall depth for insulation, which the architects exploited to create floor-to-ceiling glazing—some playfully angled, others spanning corners—enabling diverse floor plans tailored to individual needs. This flexibility accommodates varied living arrangements and lifestyle preferences. While the public sector of Prinz-Eugen-Park offers primarily rental housing, these properties are reserved exclusively for private ownership. Most units feature open floor plans, amplifying the design possibilities through flowing, interconnected spaces. The atrium houses, generously glazed toward the courtyard and southern exposures, further allow for customizable spatial arrangements responsive to occupants' requirements. Even multigenerational living configurations are possible.

www.delaossa.de

Photography Credits:

Thilo Härdtlein
www.lassy-fair.de

(Published in CUBE Munich 02|22)