Since its opening just over six months ago, Frankfurt's new Old Town has turned out to be an absolute visitor magnet for tourists and Frankfurt residents alike. There are still a few grumblers, but on the whole the once so loud critical voices have fallen silent. Because the DomRömer area is no Frankfurt "Disneyland", but an all-round successful mixture of tradition and modernity. This mix of old and new not only delights visitors, but also attracts international attention: the renowned jury of experts at the international real estate trade fair MIPIM, which takes place in Cannes from 12 to 15 March, recently announced the nomination of the Old Town for a MIPIM Award. The project is nominated in the category of urban regeneration ("Best Urban Regeneration Project"), together with three other projects from China, Taiwan and Russia. MIPIM, short for "Marché International des Professionnels de l'immobilier" is one of the most important European real estate trade fairs. For this tribute, all those involved in the planning and implementation of this prestigious project can confidently pat themselves on the back.
Mayor Peter Feldmann agrees: "This nomination alone is an award. It would be even nicer to win the MIPIM Award." Where he is right, he is right. Feldmann, who was once himself a critic of the project, which of course has long since changed, continues: "I think our new Old Town has the best prospects of picking up the prize - such an ensemble is unparalleled not only nationally, but also internationally. And when you experience how many people walk through the alleys between the cathedral and the Römer every day, stop and look at the facades or take part in a guided tour, you know - Frankfurt has done everything right with the decision for the new old town."
For Head of Planning Mike Josef, being shortlisted for the prestigious MIPIM Awards is a great accolade and confirmation of the path taken. "Frankfurt's Altstadt brings to life the urban mix of uses that distinguishes cities and makes them worth living in. Apartments, shops, Cafés, museums and public squares, together with the successful mix of old and new, create a special attitude to life." With that, he sums up very well what also inspires visitors to the area day after day. It seems new and somehow special, but still blends in very well with the rest of the old town and is thus a real enrichment for Frankfurt.
The competition for the coveted awards is fierce: 200 projects from 58 countries were up for selection by the jury. There are prizes to be won in eleven categories; they will be awarded on 14 March during the trade fair. In the end, the winner will be the project that not only convinces the jury, but also the trade fair visitors. They can vote for their favourites during the first days of the fair.
"We are very pleased about the nomination, which shows how much international attention there is for Frankfurt's Old Town reconstruction," explains Michael Guntersdorf, Managing Director of DomRömer GmbH. "We will be visiting the fair in Cannes ourselves and are already very excited about the award ceremony," adds Marion Spanier-Hessenbruch, project manager at DomRömer GmbH. "Of course, we are looking forward to active support from visitors by voting for our project. Now it's time to keep our fingers crossed!"
There we are, of course, and hope to be able to report on winning the award here soon!
You can find more information about MIPIM on <link https: www.mipim.com _blank>Https://www.mipim.com/