Munich is planning a revolutionary housing project: The Big Little House!

Munich is planning a revolutionary housing project: The Big Little House!

A lot is currently happening in Munich in the area of ​​innovative living. The cooperative house “The Big Little House” is being built in the creative quarter, a project that is intended to set new standards with 29 barrier-free residential units in timber frame construction. The rental prices are eleven euros per square meter, and there is a non-cancellable rent for future tenants - a real relief for many who are looking for affordable housing. According to BR it is also the first building in Germany that corresponds to the new building type E (E for simple).

Bavaria is setting a good example and was the first federal state to simplify building standards. This measure is intended to promote the reduction of bureaucracy and the rapid creation of living space. The so-called building type E projects make it possible to reduce the number of standards and guidelines, resulting in significantly lower construction costs and faster completion times. Thanks to the approval of the Ministry of Buildings, architect Rainer Hofmann and his team have the opportunity to go below the DIN standard 4109 in terms of sound insulation, which makes for a breathtaking project that not only offers space, but should also be aesthetically appealing.

Innovative approaches and challenges

The “big little house” is expected to be completed in autumn 2026. Construction manager Martin Wißmann emphasizes that despite the cost reductions of an estimated ten percent, the quality of the building does not suffer. A concrete staircase is installed inside to save costs - a conscious decision based on the project's specifications. However, critical voices have raised concerns about possible dangers that could arise from reduced noise and fire safety standards. There is also a need to clarify liability issues for planners and builders nationwide so that similar projects can be implemented on a larger scale.

The Free State of Bavaria is supporting this pilot project as part of a broader initiative with a total of 19 projects that test innovative construction approaches to create cost-effective and resource-saving living space. Scientific support from Professor Elisabeth Endres from the TU Braunschweig will analyze the efficiency of these innovative planning approaches. Other exciting construction sites in the Free State are also being planned, such as the “house with almost no heating” in Friedrichshofen-West.

A place for creativity and community

The “big little house” not only accommodates residents, but is also intended to create space for creativity. With around 40 percent of the space reserved for businesses and artists, the focus is on collaborative work and creativity. Plans include, among other things, a neighborhood café and a multi-hall that will provide space for social and cultural activities. These aspects contribute to the revitalization of the creative quarter and promote exchange within the community.

In view of the high demand for living space and the increasing construction prices, the project “The Big Little House” shows once again that both cost-effective solutions and a social meeting place are possible through creative and simple construction. The Bavarian State Ministry for Housing, Construction and Transport expects that these innovative approaches will have a positive impact on the housing situation in Bavaria.

For anyone who is looking for new living space or is simply interested in innovative solutions in housing construction, it is definitely exciting to continue to follow developments in this region.