The area south of the railroad station in Munich is characterized by the compact perimeter-block construction typical of the mid-19th century: small plots of land, narrow courtyards, and heavily trafficked, generally treeless streets. Featuring a number of hotels and buildings with relatively small office units and studios, the neighborhood is lively and bustling by day thanks to a variety of ground-floor retail stores and commercial uses. When night falls, however, the lack of residents in this neighborhood becomes obvious. The popular nickname “Orientalischer Viktualienmarkt” (Oriental Food Market) implies vibrant diversity but also reveals the dense and stony nature of this district. The large-scale redevelopment and expansion of the main station in Munich will have a dramatic impact on this neighborhood, which is set to become more attractive and livable in the next few years. Continue reading Herzog & de Meuron
