Königstadt-Carrée

Have you ever wondered what stands on the site of a former bird sanctuary? Here at the K\u00f6nigstadt-Carr\u00e9e, a modern marvel replaced a haven for feathered friends. This location was once home to the Mehlschwalbenhaus, or “House of Swallows”. This 45-meter-high structure was completed in 1973. It primarily housed offices. Sadly, structural issues forced its evacuation in 1989. For eleven years, the building stood empty. During this time, it became a nesting site for swallows, hence the nickname. The K\u00f6nigstadt-Carr\u00e9e replaced the Mehlschwalbenhaus. Its demolition began on September 3, 2001, concluding in 2002. Construction of the K\u00f6nigstadt-Carr\u00e9e started in 2007 and finished in 2011. This 80-meter-high, 22-story building near Alexanderplatz primarily houses offices and a hotel. The primary tenant is the Mercedes-Benz Bank, occupying roughly 10,000 square meters. The K\u00f6nigstadt-Carr\u00e9e’s design is striking with its glass curtain facade. The main 22-story building connects to a 10-story annex. The annex is partially glazed and houses the hotel. A rooftop terrace sits atop the western corner. Parts of the annex facade feature arcades. A central driveway leads to an underground parking garage with 157 spaces. The K\u00f6nigstadt-Carr\u00e9e stands as a testament to Berlin’s ever-changing landscape. It represents a transition from an abandoned bird sanctuary to a prominent office and hotel complex.