Re:build Opernturm Frankfurt – An Iconic Landmark Becomes a Living Room for Future Work

Attracting and retaining top talent has become a major challenge for companies. CSMM, the architecture and consulting firm, turns this into an opportunity: In collaboration with building owner JP Morgan and property manager Tishman Speyer, CSMM has transformed half a floor of the Opernturm Frankfurt into a vibrant collaboration hub. Designed for communication and informal exchange, the space fosters creativity and identification with the workplace – including after-work drinks at the bar with views of the Alte Oper.

The 42-story Opernturm is one of Frankfurt’s iconic landmarks. Now enhanced with an exclusive tenant lounge on the 6th floor, it offers open seating areas, multifunctional zones, and a bar, using natural materials, soft colors, and organic shapes. The result is a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Flexible meeting rooms, quiet zones with acoustic curtains, and a generous terrace with skyline views support focused work, social exchange, and moments of relaxation.

“Thanks to this innovative reuse concept, we’ve created real added value for all tenants of the Opernturm,” says Christian Brookland, Senior Project Leader at CSMM. “It’s a space for diverse uses – and for experiencing Frankfurt’s cityscape from above.”

CSMM’s 4 Key Theses on the Future of Office Towers:

1. High-rises are essential for urban space efficiency.
In cities like Frankfurt, office towers support smart land use and infrastructure. Rather than reducing them, we must rethink them as people-centered, sustainable workplaces.

2. Hybrid spaces instead of mono-functional isolation.
Inspired by global examples, Frankfurt’s office towers should evolve into multifunctional hubs with uses for work, leisure, and community, enlivening the urban center.

3. Not less, but better office space.
Over 1.1 million m² of office space stood vacant in Frankfurt in 2023. This highlights the need for flexible, attractive environments rather than mere downsizing. The focus must shift to adaptable, engaging workspaces.

4. Well-being through smart space and process design.
According to the Fraunhofer IAO’s Office 21® study, hybrid and experience-driven workspaces are essential. Zones for focus, spontaneous collaboration, and social encounters are key to drawing people back to the office.

CSMM’s conclusion:
Future-proof reuse requires holistic, hybrid concepts: inclusive, multi-tenant spaces that maximize value and enhance existing assets. Success depends on local sensitivity, community connection, risk diversification, flexible design, custom solutions – and the ESG advantage of preserving embodied carbon while reducing operational costs.