• © Ponnie Images

  • © Ponnie Images

In the HafenCity, currently the largest inner-city development project in Europe, a new meeting place for work, living and accommodation is being created on the construction sites 103/104: the “Meltingport” at Baakenhafen. The focus is on networking the various uses and their players. Inspired by the architecture of Hamburg’s Kontorhäuser – historical office buildings – and the Speicherstadt (the listed warehouse district), the new buildings integrate into the urban environment. The red brick façade is characterised by a functional expression of the different uses combined with playful design elements: horizontal and vertical bands, coloured highlights using green glazed bricks, different window sizes and “accessories” such as coloured shutters. On the ground floor, the otherwise very clear separation of uses becomes blurred. Thus, the courtyard is the epitome of the “Meltingport” and provides an interactive connection point where different people come together. With a restaurant, rooftop bar, fitness and wellness area, and a small stage in the lobby, the hotel has many opportunities for networking among visitors. Innovative research and work concepts – such as the Data Café, a Startup Hub and co-working – are accommodated in the office building. By providing common rooms and small stores, student housing in the south part of the complex offers a good mix of private and public meeting places for the approximately 200 residents.