Investment Haven: Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, a Location of Investors' Dreams
In the heart of Berlin's Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district, a series of proposed high-rise developments are causing controversy among local residents and community groups. The Rudolfkiez neighborhood, known for its vibrant cultural institutions like Renate, about blank, and Neue Zukunft, is under threat due to the expansion of the A100.
Numerous local groups, such as the initiative 'Who owns the Laskerkiez?', are actively against the redevelopment of the Rudolfkiez. The current building plans, they argue, run counter to the interests of residents and the neighborhood's unique character.
One of the most contentious projects is 'The Hub', a planned high-rise on Warschauer Straße, opposite the Amazon Tower. The district councilor Florian Schmidt (Greens) is critical of the urban development plan, expressing concerns about the context of a dense historical building stock. The district office has little enthusiasm for the new high-rise plans, questioning the urban planning context of the area.
'The Hub' is expected to be over 120 meters high and is to be built on the east side of the Warschauer Bridge between the S and U-Bahn lines. Another skyscraper is planned for a plot of land in Rudolfstraße.
The Rudolfkiez development concept, created through citizen participation, envisioned commercial use for Rudolfstraße, following the historical tradition of the electrical industry. However, the concept aimed to secure and further develop a lively neighborhood with producing businesses, social facilities, culture, and clubs. The goal was to create a balance of commercial and social spaces, fostering a vibrant and diverse community.
The district parliament passed an urgency resolution titled 'Against the High-Rise Madness' to oppose the planned high-rises on Rudolfstraße. The resolution expresses concern that the new developments will lead to the gentrification of the area, pushing out long-standing residents and businesses.
The Stralauer Kiez area on the Spree has been designated a social conservation area since 2019, further emphasizing the importance of preserving the unique character of the neighborhood. The Rudolfkiez lacks green spaces but not offices or hotels, leading to concerns about the impact of the proposed high-rises on the local community.
Despite these concerns, some residents, like Efler, have expressed approval for commercial use proposals, stating, 'Next to the S-Bahn, it's okay if it gets a bit louder.' However, the majority of the local community seems to be united in their opposition to the redevelopment of the Rudolfkiez neighborhood.
The Anschutz Entertainment Group started the project process with the Senate in April 2025, planning to bring 'The Hub' to the Rudolfkiez. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the neighborhood will be able to maintain its unique character and vibrant community in the face of these proposed developments.
