One of Europe’s largest contractors will construct a new timber hybrid office complex in central Munich, after ZÜBLIN—part of the STRABAG Group—was awarded the contract to build the six-storey LOVT Vibe development in the city’s Werksviertel district. Commissioned by Union Investment and Hines, the project marks the second phase of the broader LOVT Munich urban regeneration initiative and is valued in the high double-digit million euro range.
Constructed using a timber hybrid method that combines engineered wood with steel and concrete, significantly reducing embodied carbon while enhancing energy efficiency. ZÜBLIN Timber, which has decades of experience in this construction technique, will lead the implementation.
“We are very pleased to have been awarded this demanding construction project. LOVT Vibe in Munich allows us to showcase the great potential of forward-looking timber hybrid construction while also demonstrating our expertise in managing complex site logistics,” said Jörg Rösler, a member of the Management Board of STRABAG SE.
Wood Central understands that the complex will be built on the footprint of a former parking garage, directly beneath the Medienbrücke München—an elevated office building supported by two massive pillars—and above an active underground metro line. According to Rösler, this unique location demands “precise planning and execution.”
Designed by international architecture firm Snøhetta—also behind the timber-framed Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library—the building responds directly to its surroundings, with the stepped layout of the upper floors shaped by the orientation of the adjacent Medienbrücke:
“Our design for the LOVT Vibe building focuses on sustainability and flexibility,” said Patrick Lüth, Partner and Managing Director of Snøhetta Studio Innsbruck. “The building is a reaction to the local conditions, respects and appreciates the existing neighbouring buildings in the Werksviertel and thus creates a characterful appearance that contributes to an exciting and extraordinary urban ensemble.”
Wood Central understands that the building will include two basement levels, a ground floor, and six upper storeys, offering approximately 16,000 square meters of office and conference space. The ground floor will feature restaurants, retail outlets, event spaces, and a town hall of around 1,100 square meters. Generous planted terraces and 260 bicycle parking spaces will support urban mobility and enhance the user experience.
A standout feature of the project is its underground ice storage system, which will work in tandem with a heat pump to regulate indoor climate. Combined with photovoltaics, intelligent building systems, and a high-performance envelope, the building is designed for low-carbon operation and is targeting both LEED Platinum and WiredScore Platinum certifications.
In addition, the design also incorporates flexibility for future adaptation, including the potential to convert parking spaces into gallery or office areas. The variety of uses—retail, co-working, event spaces, and mobility services—will contribute to a vibrant new city district. A public square in front of the building will serve as a new gateway to the Werksviertel quarter, reinforcing the project’s role in shaping a dynamic and sustainable urban environment.
