Selected Blueprints for the House of Democracy Revealed - Selected ventures for House of Democracy: Ten in number
The Paulskirche in Frankfurt is set to undergo renovation as part of the House of Democracy project, a conceptual structure aimed at commemorating Germany's democratic history and the National Assembly of 1848. The project was initiated in 2019 and is expected to cost an estimated 150 million euros, with contributions from the federal government and the state of Hesse.
The House of Democracy will offer visitors an opportunity to learn about democracy in Frankfurt through exhibitions, events, and workshops. The design for this architectural landmark is being determined through an ideas competition, with ten selected designs currently on display at the Paulskirche and on the Paulsplatz in front of it.
The designs for the House of Democracy vary, with some proposing a new building near the Paulskirche and others suggesting utilizing existing buildings, such as adding structures to the neighboring Kaemmeri's roof. An event is scheduled for Friday, August 22, at 3 PM on the Paulsplatz, where the designs will be presented and discussed.
While specific details about the broader public engagement process for the competition are not elaborated, the event attracted invited guests for the design presentations, implying a controlled, expert-oriented setting rather than an open public vote or large-scale community involvement.
Citizens have six weeks to share their opinions about the House of Democracy designs. The decision to build the House of Democracy will ultimately be made by the city council. The House of Democracy project aims to create a space for education and exchange about democracy in Frankfurt, making it a significant addition to the city's rich democratic history.
[1] Source: s+s architects' office, Poststraße 20A, Frankfurt (for the presentation of selected designs on August 21, 2025)
- The Commission has also been informed of the progress of the negotiations on the conclusion of an agreement regarding the House of Democracy project, encompassing aspects of learning, education-and-self-development, and lifestyle, as the project aims to provide visitors with opportunities for experiential learning about the democratic history of Frankfurt.
- Amidst the renovation of the Paulskirche and the design competition for the House of Democracy, general-news outlets have been reporting on the ongoing politics involved in its implementation, shedding light on policy-and-legislation decisions, funding aspects, and the collaboration between the federal government and the state of Hesse.
- Included among the House of Democracy project's diverse proposals, some designs highlight the importance of enhancing home-and-garden spaces in the area around the Paulskirche, demonstrating a commitment to promoting a sustainable, habitat-friendly lifestyle.
- In response to the August 22 event where the House of Democracy designs were presented, citizens are encouraged to participate in the democratic process by sharing their opinions about the project's design through various channels, contributing to the shaping of this significant addition to Frankfurt's historic landscape.
