Construction on Wollankstrasse's "New Flora Houses" project in Pankow remains active
In the heart of Berlin-Pankow, the "Neue Florahöfe" construction project, part of the Florakiez densification, has become a symbol of delays and growing uncertainty in the city's housing construction.
Initially planned to offer apartments at prices between 5,150 and 6,500 euros per square meter, the residential and commercial complex was designed by the architecture firm Axthelm Rolvien with large glass fronts, balconies, terraces, and 22 underground parking spaces.
However, since the end of 2024, the construction site has been largely inactive, with no visible progress despite the structural shell being mostly complete. Construction materials, plastic bags, and cables can be seen at the site, but the facade is not plastered, and there is no sign of activity.
A fence blocks access to the courtyard at the entrance, and construction workers have not been seen for months. The standstill on Wollankstraße has been ongoing for months, shaping the streetscape.
The high demand for housing in Berlin has not prevented cost increases, market uncertainties, and organizational problems from causing delays in construction projects like the "Neue Florahöfe". The exact reason for the halt in construction at the "Neue Florahöfe" is not publicly communicated.
The neighborhood has expressed criticism about the dense construction in the Florakiez area, with concerns about making the quarter narrower and shadier. The Florakiez densification, generally supported in Berlin's urban development, faces criticism from residents.
The target group for the project managers includes young families, seniors, and capital investors. Despite the high-priced apartments in the complex being intended for selected target groups, the standstill has raised doubts about a timely completion.
The "Neue Florahöfe" is not alone in its predicament. The standstill on Wollankstraße is one of many construction projects in Berlin that have stalled. The delays and uncertainties in these projects have added to the growing concerns about housing construction in the city.
As the "Neue Florahöfe" remains unfinished, the neighborhood waits in anticipation, hoping for a resolution to the construction standstill and a timely completion of the project. The city of Berlin continues to face challenges in its housing construction, with the "Neue Florahöfe" serving as a stark reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that come with urban development.
