Ute-Strittmatter-Strasse — Collective Living in Freiham / 03 Arch. + ENEFF Architekten + Illiz Architektur + Westner Schührer Zöhrer

Why It Matters

Freiham’s innovative cooperative model showcases how public‑land assets can generate affordable, community‑focused housing while advancing sustainable construction practices, setting a benchmark for European urban expansion.

Key Takeaways

• Freiham aims to house 25,000 residents on 350 ha, Europe's largest new district.
• WOGENO cooperative partnered with four firms to design 82-unit collective housing.
• Prefabricated timber larch façade and precast concrete walkways emphasize sustainability.
• Mixed‑size apartments and communal courtyards foster social interaction.
• Flexible textile curtains provide privacy and sun control for each unit.

Pulse Analysis

Freiham represents Munich’s most ambitious expansion, earmarked for 25,000 inhabitants on a 350‑hectare site that will become Europe’s largest new urban district. By retaining land ownership within the municipality, the city can allocate parcels to cooperatives and building associations, creating a framework that prioritizes long‑term affordability and community stewardship. This approach aligns with broader European trends where public‑sector land is leveraged to address housing shortages without relying solely on market‑driven development.

The 2023 Ute‑Strittmatter‑Strasse project illustrates how cooperative ownership can translate into innovative design. WOGENO eG collaborated with 03 Arch., ENEFF Architekten, illiz, and Westner Schührer Zöhrer to craft a block of 82 units organized around public squares and courtyards. Workshops shaped a spatial narrative that blends commercial, communal, and residential functions, fostering daily interaction among residents. Features such as a covered precast‑concrete walkway, circular loggias, and adaptable textile curtains create a seamless indoor‑outdoor experience while respecting individual privacy.

Sustainability is woven into the building’s fabric. A self‑supporting timber‑frame envelope made from regional larch reduces embodied carbon, while reinforced‑concrete bulkheads provide structural resilience. The mix of one‑ to five‑room apartments addresses diverse household needs, from families to shared living arrangements, enhancing social equity. By demonstrating cost‑effective, modular construction paired with a community‑centric program, the Freiham collective housing model offers a replicable template for cities seeking to balance density, affordability, and environmental responsibility.