Wohnheimsiedlung Maßmannplatz

The Wohnheimsiedlung Maßmannplatz is a post-war student and apprentice housing estate in Munich’s Maxvorstadt district. It stands on the former Maßmannberg hill, now part of the Maßmannpark, near the Heßstraße. Five linked houses form a double-H shape around a large central courtyard, surrounded by gardens. The estate was built without official permission between 1948 and 1951 with American support and guidance from architects Grete and Werner Wirsing. It was intended to promote democratic living through shared self-management between students and trainees.

The estate is recognised as an important example of modernist reconstruction in Munich. Its Baubüro was led by Werner Wirsing from 1948 and Grete Wirsing from 1949, with Erik Braun, Wolfgang Fuchs, Herbert Groethuysen, Gordon Ludwig and Jakob Semler also contributing. The complex reflects a vision of democratic cohabitation fostered by an American officer and historian Hermann Mau. The five interconnected houses share facilities and organise their own admissions through resident meetings.

Visitors find a quiet residential area with 124 single rooms of 10 to 15 square metres, shared kitchens and lounges in each house, and multiple showers and toilets. Two large balconies link the buildings, and the central courtyard offers a peaceful green space. Three annual festivals—Maßmannfasching, Maifest and Sommerfest—bring residents together with live music and traditions like maypole raising. The estate remains self-governed by a residents’ association of around 120 members, with a twelve-person board and several elected committees.