Weißer Riese, High-rise building in Mettenhof, Germany.
The Weisser Riese is a residential tower standing 85 meters tall with 25 floors and a square footprint of about 25 meters on each side in central Mettenhof. Beyond living spaces, the building houses shared facilities including laundry areas, drying rooms, storage zones, and technical floors for elevator systems.
Built between 1968 and 1971 under architect Hans Konwiarz, this tower was created to solve Kiel's severe housing shortage during the 1960s expansion period. Its completion was part of a larger urban development effort that rapidly added homes for thousands of residents.
This residential tower embodies post-war housing ideals, when large buildings were designed to quickly house people affordably in growing cities. It serves as a meeting point for residents from many different backgrounds who have made this neighborhood their home.
The 23rd floor offers an open observation point where visitors can look out over the city and surroundings. Access is straightforward since this is a functioning residential building designed for everyday use rather than tourism.
The name "Weisser Riese" refers to the building's light-colored exterior that sets it apart from other darker residential towers in the area. This brightness made it a visual landmark and an easy-to-recognize reference point for residents and visitors navigating the neighborhood.
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