Elevated Plaza Concept for UniCredit Headquarters in Munich by OMA and Reinier de Graaf

The international architecture firm OMA, led by architect Reinier de Graaf, has unveiled an innovative competition proposal for the new headquarters of UniCredit in Munich. The design introduces a striking architectural concept featuring an elevated plaza and trapezoidal office volumes that aim to transform an underutilized urban zone into a vibrant public destination.

Reimagining an Overlooked Urban Site

Located near one of the city’s primary transportation corridors, the Munich S-Bahn, the project site currently functions as a largely utilitarian area with limited public amenities and minimal urban character. OMA’s design seeks to redefine this neglected space by introducing an elevated urban platform that expands public accessibility while maintaining the site’s natural features.

The architects propose lifting the headquarters building above ground level, significantly reducing its footprint. This strategy opens the ground plane to the public and creates new opportunities for landscape integration, pedestrian circulation, and urban interaction. By doing so, the design retroactively gives identity and character to an area that previously lacked a defined civic presence.

Elevated Plaza as an Urban Living Room

A defining feature of the project is the elevated central plaza positioned above ground level. Supported by slender structural columns, the building hovers above the site, allowing pedestrians to move freely beneath it. The plaza itself is envisioned as a dynamic urban “living room” that encourages public engagement.

This elevated space will include landscaped gardens, open gathering areas, restaurants, and gastronomy venues designed to attract both office users and city residents. By combining greenery with social amenities, the plaza becomes a lively urban hub that bridges corporate architecture with public life.

The project also strengthens urban connectivity by aligning with a future pedestrian crossing connected to the nearby Leuchtenbergring S-Bahn station. As a result, the development functions as a key urban pivot linking transportation infrastructure with surrounding neighborhoods.

Functional Organization and Urban Integration

The building’s program is strategically distributed across different levels to optimize accessibility and operational efficiency. Below the elevated plaza, essential functions such as the bank’s meeting center, logistics operations, and service areas are located. Positioning these facilities at ground level allows for efficient circulation, deliveries, and staff access without interfering with the public realm above.

Above the plaza, the main office spaces rise approximately 22 meters above ground in distinctive trapezoidal volumes. This configuration allows employees to enjoy expansive views while maintaining a strong architectural identity that stands out within the urban landscape.

Sustainable Design and Environmental Performance

Sustainability plays a significant role in shaping the building’s geometry. The sloped roof and inclined facades are inspired by the traditional Munich roof form while also responding to environmental considerations. These angled surfaces improve air circulation around the structure and maximize solar exposure for integrated photovoltaic panels embedded in the façade.

The building mass also incorporates triangular cutouts that allow natural daylight to penetrate deep into interior workspaces. This design strategy enhances indoor environmental quality, reducing reliance on artificial lighting while improving comfort and productivity for building occupants.

Architecture as Urban Catalyst

OMA’s proposal demonstrates how contemporary architecture can act as a catalyst for urban transformation. By elevating the structure and prioritizing public space, the design challenges conventional corporate headquarters typologies. Instead of occupying the ground entirely, the building gives space back to the city, encouraging social interaction and enhancing connectivity.

The result is a project that balances corporate functionality with civic generosity. Through thoughtful urban planning, sustainable design strategies, and bold architectural form, the proposed UniCredit Headquarters has the potential to reshape this overlooked area of Munich into an active and engaging public environment.

Key Project Highlights

• Elevated plaza creating new public space in Munich
• Trapezoidal office volumes positioned above ground level
• Integration with S-Bahn pedestrian infrastructure
• Photovoltaic façade and climate-responsive design
• Landscaped urban living room with restaurants and gardens