Thursday, 11 June 2026
ABG Real Estate Group and HanseMerkur Grundvermögen have celebrated the topping-out ceremony for Central Parx, their major office redevelopment project in Frankfurt’s banking district, marking just over a year since construction began.
Around 300 guests from politics, business and civic society attended the event on Bockenheimer Landstrasse, including Frankfurt Lord Mayor Mike Josef, ABG Real Estate Group Managing Partner Ulrich Höller, and HanseMerkur Grundvermögen board members Malte Andes and Ulrich Haeselbarth.
The project involves the transformation of a listed office complex into a modern workplace destination with approximately 25,650 sqm of lettable office space. The redevelopment represents a total investment of around €370 million and is already almost fully leased. Confirmed tenants include international law firms White & Case and Noerr.
Originally designed by renowned architect Sep Ruf and completed in 1965, the complex comprises the Tower, Studio and Pavilion buildings. The property served as the headquarters of BHF Bank for more than 50 years before being acquired by ABG Real Estate Group and HanseMerkur Grundvermögen in 2020.
The refurbishment is being carried out in collaboration with Frankfurt-based architect Prof. Christoph Mäckler and aims to bring the building to modern standards while preserving its architectural heritage. The redevelopment includes a comprehensive upgrade of building systems, improved internal connectivity, redesigned floorplates and stronger integration with the neighbouring Rothschild Park.
The project is targeting DGNB Platinum and WiredScore Platinum certifications, reflecting its focus on sustainability, digital infrastructure and energy efficiency. The existing façade structure will be retained while being upgraded to meet contemporary environmental standards.
“Central Parx exemplifies how architecturally significant existing buildings can be developed in a sustainable manner,” said Frankfurt Lord Mayor Mike Josef. “Its redesign not only strengthens the banking district but also enhances Frankfurt’s appeal as a business and employment hub.”
Ulrich Höller, Managing Partner of ABG Real Estate Group, described the project as an example of the growing importance of repositioning existing assets. “With great respect for the original architecture, we are developing a workplace that combines identity, quality and sustainability,” he said.
Malte Andes, Deputy Chairman of the Board of HanseMerkur Grundvermögen, said the high level of pre-leasing demonstrates continued demand for premium office space in prime city-centre locations.
Construction is being carried out by Adolf Lupp GmbH + Co. KG in a joint venture with Medicke GmbH. The project combines high-rise modernisation with heritage conservation requirements, creating additional complexity in both planning and execution.
Completion of Central Parx is scheduled for mid-2028.
Copyright: ABG Real Estate Group From left to right: Ulrich Haeselbarth, Member of the Executive Board, HanseMerkur Grundvermögen; Ulrich Höller, Managing Partner, ABG Real Estate Group; Prof. Christoph Mäckler, architect; Mike Josef, Lord Mayor of Frankfurt; Malte Andes, Deputy Chairman of the Board, HanseMerkur Grundvermögen; Guido Wiese, Spokesman for the Management Board, Development, ABG Real Estate Group
