From “Liberty Corner” to “Free Word Memorial”…

Once, on the ruins of the Censorship Headquarters, in joint venture with Polish Press Agency (PAP), Von der Heyden Group built the ‘Liberty Corner’ building, the symbol of freedom, the symbol of free market economy and co-operation between companies and people of diverse nationalities. We feel very honoured that on June 5, 2014 under the Patronage of the President of Poland, Mr Bronisław Komorowski, the idea of freedom spread into ‘Free Word Memorial’ at the ‘Free Word Square’.

Sven von der Heyden, Chairman of Von der Heyden Group, said:

‘When thinking about our nearly 25 years of positive experience in Poland I tend to get sentimental at times. When we invented at the time the name ‘Liberty Corner’ for our flagship-development as an exclamation mark behind the destruction of the former communistic censorship office, we could have not paid enough tribute to this brave country. It is nice to see that the Mysia square has received the biggest distinction being called ‘Free Word Square’ and now also received the ‘Free Word Memorial’. May Poland and the Von der Heyden Group prosper for the next quarter of the century’.

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VDHG Press Release – From Liberty Corner to Free Word Memorial – ENG

Andersia Business Centre leased in 95% and new plans in Poznan!

Andersia Business Centre – the heart of business in Poznan is filling up! We have recently signed a few new long-term leases and next to PricewaterhouseCoopers that we welcomed in October last year, we now give a warm welcome to:

Żabka Polska Sp. z o.o. – lease agreement signed for app. 4.500m2

Mars Polska Sp. z o.o. – lease agreement signed for app. 1.700 m2

Newell Poland Services Sp. z o.o. – lease agreement signed for app. 1.900m2

Probuild Sp. z o.o. – lease agreement signed for app.270 m2

Andersia Centre Sp. z o.o. – lease agreement signed for app. 1.200 m2

We are also now in the process of negotiations with another big Tenant that will lead to leasing ABC up to 95% at the end of June. We thank our advisor Knight Frank and also Colliers who actively participated in this success.

With Von der Heyden Group’s developed buildings in joint venture with the City of Poznan: Andersia Business Centre, Andersia Tower and Poznan Financial Centre, the Anders Square has become the heart of business in Poznan attracting renowned Tenants like e.g.: Bank Zachodni WBK, Polkomtel, Franklin Templeton, Ernst & Young, IKB Leasing and many others.

New plans at Anders Square in Poznan:

Von der Heyden Group’s purpose company, Andersia Retail Sp. z o.o. together with Orbis S.A., the Owner of the neighbouring plot, have started to build a connection road between Tadeusz Kościuszko Street and Królowa Jadwigi Street. The General Contractor is Strabag and the construction works will last 3 months. The road proceeds the next stage of development of the Anders Square. At the end of 2013, VDHG received the WZZiT permit (conditions of building and land development) for two buildings with office, retail and residential function with a total usable area of app. 67.000 m2. Design works for the first of two buildings have started now.

Adam Trybusz, Managing Director of Von der Heyden Group for Poznan, said: ‘The future of Poznan is being built now, Andersia Silver is coming soon.’

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VDHG Press Release – ABC almost fully leased and new plans for Poznan – ENG (.pdf) [1.81 MB]

‘Długi Targ’ Hotel development project in the heart of Gdańsk Old Town!

  • Debt financing closed!
  • Start of construction works:  September 2015!
  • Opening of IBB Długi Targ Hotel Gdańsk: Spring 2017!

With history of over 1000 years, Gdańsk is one of the oldest, one of the most dynamic and one of the most popular tourist destination in Poland. Together with Gdynia and Sopot, Gdańsk forms a conurbation of over 1.2 mln inhabitants. Gdańsk, as the capital of the Pomerania Province is also an important academic and business centre in the country.

‘Długi Targ’ Hotel Project – a unique property acquired by Von der Heyden Group in a complex tender from Millenium Bank back in 2006, it is located in the most attractive part in the heart of Gdańsk, at the corner of historical Długi Targ Boulevard and Mieszczanska Street, almost opposite to the Neptun’s Statute and the Dwór Artusa Building.

In the middle of February 2015, ‘Długi Targ’ Hotel Project has obtained bank financing. From among all banks invited to co-operation, the best offer was made by Alior Bank S.A.

On closing, Sven von der Heyden, Von der Heyden Group’s Chairman said: ‘It has taken us an unusually long time to move ahead with this beautiful project. First our dreams got shattered by the financial crisis and the consequential loss of financing for Hotel developments in Europe and in particular in Poland. Then we had other projects going in the Von der Heyden Group such as Munich and Poznan, which needed 100 % of our attention. The suffered delays are really not a problem as we own 3 properties in a marvellous location and once the location is great, time is not that important. We are now full of enthusiasm for the project ‘Długi Targ’ and are convinced that the new IBB Długi Targ Hotel Gdansk will be financially very succcessful’.

The Investor is currently in the process to close the design works with a local architect Michał Skwarło and Tomasz Wojtkowiak – interior designer, prepare technical documentation and organise a tender for the General Contractor. Construction works are planned to start in September 2015 and finish in spring 2017.

Adam Trybusz, the President of the Management Board of Długi Targ Sp. z o.o., a special purpose vehicle to implement the project, and finance partner said: ‘There are locations in which you have faith in against any economic calculation, consultants and other IRR enthusiasts. You just believe in it, you stay patient and humble and the time comes when they all change their minds and your project receives the second life. It’s also the right timimg. This is what we experience now, we are awarded for our faith into the ‘Długi Targ’ project.’

The ‘Długi Targ’ development project (estimated investment value: Euro 11 mln) is based on refurbishment and conversion of three historical semidetached city houses into a unique hotel in a unique place.

The initial concept of Von der Heyden Group was to create a top 5* refined boutique hotel, however, due to changing market environment, the initial idea responded the local market needs and an efficient and trendy 3* Superior hotel will be created. The characteristics of the external façade will be carefully preserved, however at the same time, the interiors will be modern and full of innovative solutions.

The Investor is in possesion of all permits to start the construction. At first, the tender for the General Contractor will be organised and closed by the summer 2015. There are also works conducted on the technical design in order to increase the number of hotel rooms and decide on the function of the groundfloor. Construction works will start not earlier than in September 2015 in order not to interfere with unique holiday atmosphere at Długi Targ Boulevard.

The newly opened hotel that is planned for Spring 2017, will be operated by a dynamic hotel group: IBB Hotel Collection (IBBHC). IBBHC in Poland successully operates renowned to 4* hotels like: IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka in Lublin and IBB Hotel Andersia in Poznań, both enjoying the best results in terms of REVPAR and occupancy. IBBBHC operates as well two 4* hotels in Germany and three 4 and 3* hotels in Spain (more info about IBBHC: www.ibbhotels.com).

In the new hotel in Gdańsk, guests will have 88 rooms and comfortable apartments at their disposal located on four floors. The venue will offer almost 1.000 sqm for retail lease, or hotel additional services, such as e.g. a restaurant, beauty centre and exquisite boutiques. The city of Gdańsk will offer unforgettable memories and numerous events like e.g. St. Dominic’s Fair that is held in Długi Targ Boulevard, it’s the oldest dated from the 13th century, the most famous, and one of the largest open air events in Europe that attracts about 6.5 mln guests to Gdańsk every summer.

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Press Release – DT – 27.02.2015 ENG

Bavaria Towers – the new gateway to Munich starts construction!

Von der Heyden Group jointly with PORR AG announce to have signed the construction agreement on the Blue Tower and the White Tower forming part of one of the most spectacular development projects in the Bavarian capital in a strategic location in Munich known as ‘Bavaria Towers’ Ensemble. The estimated investment value of the Blue and White Tower is Euro 160 mln.

The Bavaria Towers building complex designed by star duo from Madrid, Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos will be comprised in total of fourpentagonal high-rises (77.651 sqm of total gross rental area, two central underground car parks with a total of 960 spaces for cars including places for electric cars bicycles with changing rooms and showers for cyclists): Sky Tower (83.6m high), Blue Tower (72.3m high, 24,347sqm, 300 parking spaces), Star Tower (46.1m high) andWhite Tower (53.6m high,15.150sqm, 140 parking spaces. The latter building is already rented to Ramada Hotels for 20 years that will host there a four star hotel with 344 luxury rooms and panorama suites with a large spa and fitness area on the 14th floor). Bavaria Towers will offer an impressive panorama view and breath-taking views over Munich and the Alps beyond.

Covering a total area of app. 11,000 sqm, the plot is the property of Bogenhausener Tor Immobilien GmbH, initiated by the Von der Heyden Group and co-owned with Luxembourg based Atlant Capital. The Munich-based Bayern Projekt GmbH is tasked with project development and representing the interests of the owners and also representing Zurich Insurance, the owners of the future Sky and Star Towers.

Negotiations between Von der Heyden Group and PORR have taken more than 6 months, considerably long due to the complexity of the project. Construction time is foreseen for 38 months including demolitions works of the existing buildings that shall start on June 15, 2015.

Mr. Sven von der Heyden, Chairman of the Von der Heyden Group, was excited upon signing the construction agreement saying‘This is the largest construction agreement we have ever signed and it was the logical choice to give PORR the trust for starting this exciting project, which took us more than 8 years to plan and design and get the Master plan changes approved. Given the exceptionally good experience we have made with PORR in Poland, we do look forward completing our part of Bavaria Towers with Austria’s second largest construction company. We are glad that the marketing of the project goes along expectations and hope to be able to announce further news in the coming months’.

‘It is a great honour for PORR that the von der Heyden Group has chosen our subsidiary PORR Deutschland to realise the Munich’s most modern real estate ensemble. We are already familiar with the Bavaria Towers project, as we have been intensely involved from the beginning of the planning process. Right from the start, the focus has been on Value Engineering: with the in-depth market knowledge of the von der Heyden Group and our extensive experience and expertise as a general contractor, we have developed a highly promising solution together’, said Karl-Heinz Strauss, CEO of PORR AG, on what is the largest building construction tender for the German subsidiary to date.

The construction of Bavaria Towers calls on the extensive expertise in a full range of services from PORR and its subsidiaries: the PORR Design & Engineering team is responsible for the design. PORR Environmental Engineering will handle the professional demolition works applying innovative technology. The experts from Stump Spezialtiefbau will take care of the demanding construction pit. For the building itself, PORR Deutschland’s building construction experts will showcase their professionalism together with the Austrian specialists from the large-scale projects department.

PORR has worked with the von der Heyden Group for many years in Poland. Thanks to the successful collaboration on realising previous projects, our cooperation today is based on a deep mutual trust – this is a key success factor in a project of this size‘, said Karl-Heinz Strauss.

The dynamic metropolis of Munich is one of Germany’s leading business locations and one of Europe’s most attractive urban centres. Home of the famous pioneering Bavarian spirit, no other city unites tradition and cutting-edge modernity in quite the same way.

The Bavaria Towers have strategic location being ideally located at Einsteinstraße and Prinzregentenstraße, two of the main arterial roads to downtown Munich, right where the A94 motorway meets the Mittlerer Ring central ring road. While the A94 connects the areas east of Munich with the city center, the Mittlerer Ring connects all downtown districts with the main arterial roads.

Situated in the Bogenhausen district on the eastern edge of Munich, Bavaria Towers Project create a stunning new gateway to the city– offering businesses a unique opportunity to claim a spot on one of the major thoroughfares into the regional capital. Sky Tower, the highest building in the Bavaria Towers Project with a height of 83.6 metres will be one of the tallest structures in the city and will be seen for miles around. It will be the first building that millions of visitors to the metropolis see when arriving from the east.

Munich has the tightest restrictions in Germany when it comes to building high-rises. According to the “high-rise decision” (Hochhausentscheid) of 2004, high-rises within the Mittlerer Ring central ring road are only permitted if they are not higher than the towers of the Frauenkirche church and fit in with the city’s overall architecture. Still, and probably for this exact reason, each high-rise enjoys a high-degree of distinction and prestige. Munich’s top roof terraces in Bavaria Towers will be perfect location for unforgettable receptions and events in a unique setting. Designed floor-to-ceiling glass panels guard against the elements ensure a pleasant environment whatever the weather.

The fixtures and fittings in Bavaria Towers combine leading-edge materials, minimalist design and state-of-the-art building systems. The ensemble offers the perfect environment for innovative enterprises, supporting tomorrow’s world of work. There are two central underground parking garages with a total of 960 spaces, and every tower boasts its own driveway and a large, spacious lobby. Highspeed elevators take you directly to the office floors, in line with any conceivable usage concept: from individual to open-plan offices, or a combination of both. Moreover, full-length windows and a floor-toceiling height of three metres and up to 3.8 meters in the top floors lend a roomy, airy feeling to the rental units. The upmarket design is rounded out by premium features such as external solar protection and openable window elements for natural ventilation.

Bavaria Towers is a perfect example for a sustainable design, embodying an end-to-end energy efficiency concept – from the double-skin façade structure to the district heating system. The White Tower and The Blue Tower buildings are set to achieve gold-level LEED certification.

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VDHG – PORR press release ENG 19.05.2015 (.pdf) [3.36 MB]

Von der Heyden Group sells Andersia Business Centre to PHN S.A.!

Von der Heyden Group has the pleasure to announce having entered into a transaction with Polski Holding Nieruchomości S.A. who purchased VDHG’s shareholding in one of its 12 Polish special purpose companies, Andersia Business Centre Sp. z o.o.

Andersia Business Centre Sp. z o.o. owns the modern Class A office building – Andersia Business Centre (ABC), combining office and retail function in the heart of business in Poznań, fully let to renowned Tenants. The Building is in the neighbourhood of the Old Town, Stary Browar and Poznań International Fairs.

In March 2015, the ABC obtained the LEED gold certificate.

Andersia Business Centre is the first office building purchased by PHN S.A. in connection to the company’s acquisition strategy.

Although particular terms of transaction were not disclosed, Sven von der Heyden, Chairman of the Von der Heyden Group, said: ‘We have come a long way to close this transaction, since a letter of intent was signed half a year ago. We are pleased to have found with PHN a stable, reputable and experienced real estate investor as the new owner and wish them good luck with the third phase of buildings the Von der Heyden Group erected on Plac Andersa.’

‘We are pleased that we have completed the negotiations held over recent months to acquire an investment property. Andersia Business Centre is a building characterized by a very good location, high standard of offered space, and reputable tenants’, said Artur Lebiedziński, President of the Management Board of PHN S.A.

‘The transaction involves acquiring 100 percent of shares held by Andersia Business Centre Sp. z o.o., the building’s owner. We have also taken over a loan taken out in Bank Zachodni WBK S.A. The transaction is an element of PHN’s strategy aimed at increasing its modern leasable space assets. The Andersia Business Centre office building will definitely be a valuable asset in our portfolio’, said Włodzimierz Stasiak, Member of the Management Board of Polski Holding Nieruchomości S.A.

Adam Trybusz, President of the Management Board of Andersia Business Centre Sp. z o.o. and Managing Director of Von der Heyden Group for Poznań said: ‘For years the market has waited for an active Polish player. Transaction with PHN is a positive signal for further development of the Polish commercial real estate market giving a big hope for the future. Polish commercial properties in Polish hands become a fact. I’m happy to have contributed to this reality.’

In the transaction, Von der Heyden Group was advised by Knight Frank Sp. z o.o.
It was a pleasure to represent Von der Heyden Group in the disposal of Andersia Business Centre to PHN. The terms of the transaction proved that this is the highest quality office building in the best location in Poznań’,  said Krzysztof Cipiur, manager in Capital Markets at Knight Frank.

Knight Frank had advised also during previous two VDHG’s remarkable sale transactions at the Anders Square in Poznań: Poznań Financial Centre (PFC) sold to AIB Polonia Property Fund S.a.r.l. in 2004 (Istphase development) and Andersia Tower (AT) sold to DEKA Immobilien in 2008 (2nd phase development).

Andersia Business Centre, a joint venture between Von der Heyden Group and the City of Poznań constitutes the third phase of Anders Square Development developed by VDHG in 2012. The 5 storey above ground ABC building comprises app. 14.000 sqm usable area and two underground levels with 144 parking places.

The ABC building was designed by the Architectural Studio of Ewa and Stanislaw Sipińscy who had also designed the previous two phases. Project management has been entrusted to Probuild Sp. z o.o. Porr (Polska) S.A. acted as a General Contractor and Knight Frank Sp. z o.o. as a financial advisor and broker.  PHN S.A. was advised by:  Jones Lang LaSalle and Greenberg Traurig Grzesiak.With the sale of ABC, VDHG was advised by the law firm Piszcz, Norek i Wspólnicy.


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VDHG-PHN Press Release – ABC sale-ENG -2-07-2015

IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka and IBB Andersia Hotel awarded for exceptional hospitality services!

TOPHOTEL 2015: ‘Best weekend Hotel in Poland’ for IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka

‘Brand of the Year’ Award: ‘Best City Business Hotel in Poland’ for IBB Andersia Hotel

‘Super Star Award’ (2nd place) for conference centre in Poland for IBB Andersia Hotel
IBB Hotel Collection (IBBHC) and Von der Heyden Group (VDHG) are delighted to jointly announce that two IBBHC hotels in Poland: IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka and IBB Andersia Hotel have been granted prestigious market awards for exceptional hospitality services.

IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka in Lublin has won TOPHOTEL 2015 award as ‘The best weekend hotel in Poland’, and IBB Andersia Hotel in Poznań has obtained: a ‘Brand of the Year’ prize in ‘City Business’ category, as well as a ‘Super Star Award’ (2nd place) for its conference center, both awards granted during Hotel Brand Awards 2015 at Polagra and Hotel Invest Fair in Poznań.

Recent awards for IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka and IBB Andersia Hotel, prove not only the well-established renown of Polish IBB hotels to deliver first-rate standards, but also the ability of IBB Hotel Collection to perfectly address needs of different type of guests. Previously, both buildings have also gained numerous development awards, e.g. IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka: ‘Best Overall Development 2002’, ‘Laur Konserwatorski 2003’, ‘Zabytek Zadbany 2003’, ‘Kryształowa Cegła’, and IBB Andersia Hotel, e.g.: ‘Building of the Year 2007’, ‘Best Hotel Development Project 2008’, ‘CEE Hotel & Leisure Development of the year 2007’ (2nd place).

Growing success of IBB Hotel Collection paves the way for another hotel in Poland coming soon – IBB Długi Targ Hotel in Gdańsk and demonstrates the IBBHC Group capacity to effectively utilize its key assets – a combination of top locations, knowledge  and professional and friendly staff.

The 90 Room IBB Długi Targ Hotel Project (estimated investment value: Euro 11 mln) developed by Von der Heyden Group, is based on refurbishment and conversion of three historical semidetached city houses into a unique hotel in a unique place. This property acquired by VDHG is located in the most attractive part in the heart of Gdańsk, at the corner of historical Długi Targ Boulevard and Mieszczańska Street, almost opposite to the Neptun’s Statute and the Dwór Artusa Building. In February 2015, ‘Długi Targ’ Hotel Project has obtained bank financing with the best offer made by Alior Bank S.A.

Construction works are planned to start in January 2016 and finish in 2017. The building has been re-designed and will now boast about 1.200 sqm of prime retail space on the ground floor combined with an internal rearrangment.

About ‘Hotel Brand Awards‘ and ‘TOPHOTEL Awards‘:
Hotel Brand Awards are presented on the basis of various factors determining the power of the brand to attract guests. Depending on their character, hotels are rivaling in 10 categories in a competition organized by: Profitroom, leading supplier of IT solutions for hotel bookings, and Poznań International Fairs.

Hotel Brand Awards engage leading experts in branding and hospitality gathered on annual Invest-Hotel exhibition. Winners of the competition are selected by 200 representatives of the hotel industry during Hotel Marketing Conference. IBB Andersia Hotel gained ‘Brand of the Year’ prize in ‘City Business’ category and ‘Super Star Award’ in ‘Conference’ category, proving its ability and flexibility to be a hosting partner for biggest market players and create excellent environment for its guests’ businesses.

In September 2015, IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka obtained a TOPHOTEL 2015 prize as the best hotel destination for a weekend in Poland in an annual contest organized by Hotele.pl. Hotele.pl is the leading portal for on-line room reservations in Poland with more than 200 thousands hotels in their offer. Since 2008 Hotele.pl has been presenting TOPHOTEL prizes in 19 categories differentiating the character of services delivered by hotels in Poland, and two additional awards – TOPHOTEL Partner and TOPHOTEL of the Year. Hotels are nominated on the basis of a grade obtained from users of hotele.pl website and opinions of hundreds companies using Corporate Travel Assistant to book their business travels. The best hotel in a given category is selected through a vote on TOPHOTEL website.

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IBBHC VDHG Press release ENG 29-09-2015

Bavaria Towers in Munich – construction works in progress!

WHITE TOWER IN MUNICH – SOLD TO SWISS LIFE INSURANCE GROUP!

Bavaria Towers: the White Tower and the Blue Tower (investment value: Euro 154 million) form part of the most spectacular development projects in the Bavarian capital in a strategic location in Munich. Situated in the Bogenhausen district on the eastern edge of Munich, Bavaria Towers Project create a stunning new gateway to the city – offering businesses a unique opportunity to claim a spot on one of the major thoroughfares into the regional capital.

The Bavaria Towers building complex is designed by star duo from Madrid, Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos, and will be comprised in total of four pentagonal high-rises that makes 77.651 sqm of total gross rental area, two central underground car parks with a total of 960 spaces for cars, including places for electric cars and places for bicycles with changing rooms and showers.

Bavaria Towers complex consists of: Blue Tower (72.3m high, 24,347sqm, 300 parking spaces), White Tower (53.6m high, 15.150sqm, 140 parking spaces), Sky Tower (83.6m high) and Star Tower (46.1m high). Covering a total area of app. 11,000sqm, the plot is the property of Bogenhausener Tor Immobilien GmbH, initiated by the Von der Heyden Group and co-owned with Luxembourg based Atlant Capital. The Munich-based Bayern Projekt GmbH is tasked with project development and representing the interests of the owners and also representing Zurich Insurance, the owners of the future Sky Tower and Star Tower.

The White Tower and Blue Tower are currently being constructed and are to gain certification in accordance with the LEED Gold sustainability standard. The General Contractor is PORR Germany. The fixtures and fittings in Bavaria Towers combine leading-edge materials, minimalist design and state-of-the-art building systems. The ensemble offers the perfect environment for innovative enterprises, supporting tomorrow’s world of work.

The 54m high White Tower building was already rented before construction to H-Hotels AG that will operate a four star Ramada Hotel for 20 years with 345 state-of-the art rooms and panorama suites with a large spa and fitness area on the 14th floor. Furthermore, in December 2015 shortly after the start of construction, the White Tower building was sold to Swiss Life Insurance Group and is one of the company’s largest hotel transactions.

Bavaria Towers will offer an impressive panorama view and breath-taking views over Munich and the Alps beyond.

Planned end of construction for the White and Blue Towers is July 2018.

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Von der Heyden Group starts construction of ‘Długi Targ’ Hotel project in the heart of Gdańsk!

‘Długi Targ’ Hotel Development Project is a unique property acquired by Von der Heyden Group in a complex tender from Millenium Bank some years back and is located in the most attractive part in the heart of Gdańsk, at the corner of historical Długi Targ Boulevard and Mieszczanska Street, almost opposite to the Neptun’s Statute and the Dwór Artusa Building.

With history of over 1000 years, Gdańsk is one of the oldest, one of the most dynamic, most popular tourist destinations in Poland. Together with Gdynia and Sopot, Gdańsk forms a conurbation of over 1.2 million inhabitants. Gdańsk, as the capital of the Pomerania Province is also an important academic and business centre in the country.

A complex tender for a General Contractor for construction works has been won by the locally based, renowned company, Allcon Sp. z o.o. sp. k. and the construction agreement was signed on April 21, 2016.

Allcon Budownictwo Sp. z o.o. sp. k. is a Pomeranian company specializing in general contracting in ‘design and build’ type contracts and ‘turn-key’ projects. During 25 years on the market, the company has completed dozens of projects for Polish and foreign investors. Allcon Budownictwo is a proud holder of a number of Certificates, issued among others by Det Norske Veritas (presently DNV GL Group), an independent international certification body. Certificates confirm compliance with the requirements of standards of quality management (ISO 9001: 2008) and environmental management (ISO 14001: 2004).

The chosen architect for the ‘Długi Targ’ Project is also a locally based company ‘Architectonica S.A.’ and the interior design is made by‘TOYA Design’ from Poznań. The Project Manger is ‘Probuild’ Sp. z o.o.

On signing the agreement, Sven von der Heyden, Von der Heyden Group’s Chairman said: ‘We have never given up to make this wonderful project a reality. Our timing at acquistion was not ideal right before the financial crisis broke out in 2007/2008. We have taken advantages of the suffered delays and optimized the design, increased the number of rooms and found a strong banking partner in Alior Bank. I am convinced that this Hotel will be financially very successful given its design and location combined with our usual touch for detail.’

Adam Trybusz, the President of the Management Board of Długi Targ Sp. z o.o., a special purpose vehicle to implement the project, and Co-investor of the project said: ‘The right to participate in such a unique project that is development of Dlugi Targ Boulevard wins with every obstacle on the timeline. This time, the time has not always favoured us. However, with such location it doesn’t matter that much. What matters most is the privilege to co-create the history of the city, the history of the beautiful city of Gdańsk.’

‘We are delighted that such a renowned and respected Investor has appreciated ALLCON Budownictwo’s experience in hotel construction. For our company, conducting construction works in the historical centre of Gdańsk, and with such a demanding and prestigious project, is a great motivation and a big chance for us to confirm the quality of our services.’ – said Mariusz Białek, the President of the Management Board of ALLCON Budownictwo Sp. z o.o., shareholder of ALLCON Budownictwo Sp. z o.o. sp.k.

The ‘Długi Targ’ development project (estimated development budget: Euro 11 million) is based on refurbishment and conversion of three historical semidetached city houses into a unique 90 room hotel with a total area of app. 4.500 m2.

The initial concept of Von der Heyden Group was to create a top 5* refined boutique hotel, however, due to changing market environment, the initial idea responded the local market needs and an efficient and trendy 3* Superior hotel will be created. The building will also have prime retail space on the ground floor. The characteristics of the external façade will be carefully preserved, however at the same time, the interiors will be modern and full of innovative solutions.

On July 1, 2016 there will take place the Cornerstone Laying Ceremony. The hotel will be opened in late summer 2017 and will be managed by IBB Hotel Collection (IBBHC). In Poland, IBBHC successully operates two renowned 4* hotels: IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka in Lublin and IBB Andersia Hotel in Poznań, both enjoying the best results in terms of REVPAR and occupancy. IBBBHC operates as well two 4* hotels and three 3* hotels in Germany, as well as three hotels in Spain: one 5* hotel, one 4* hotel and one 3* hotel (more info about IBBHC: www.ibbhotels.com).

In the new hotel in Gdańsk, guests will have 90 rooms and comfortable apartments at their disposal located on five above-ground storeys. The hotel will offer business facilities such as free in-room internet and business corners with a computer/printer for a public use. The hotel will also be focused on touristic groups with a drive-in access for busses, being the only hotel in the area with such a convenience. The venue will also offer retail lease and exquisite boutiques.

The city of Gdańsk will offer unforgettable memories and numerous events like e.g. St. Dominic’s Fair that is held in Długi Targ Boulevard, it’s the oldest dated from the 13th century, the most famous, and one of the largest open air events in Europe that attracts about 6.5 mln guests to Gdańsk every summer.

‘Długi Targ’ Hotel Project will be the first development project of Von der Heyden Group in Gdańsk and the Group is actively observing the local market for further opportunities there.

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VDHG Press Release 28-04-2016 ENG

Ground breaking ceremony of hotel development project ‘IBB Hotel Długi Targ’ in Gdańsk

Location: Długi Targ 14-16, heart of the Old Town in Gdańsk
Estimated investment budget: Euro 11 million
Total area: 4.500 m2
End of Construction: late summer 2017
Investor and Developer: Długi Targ Sp. z o.o. (Von der Heyden Group, Adam Trybusz)
Project Manager: Probuild Sp. z o.o.
Architect: Biuro Projektów ‘Architectonica’ S.A.
General Contractor: Allcon Budownictwo Sp. z o.o. sp. k.
Interior Design: TOYA Design Sp. z o.o.
Financing Bank: Alior Bank S.A.
Hotel Operator: IBB Hotel Collection

The ‘Długi Targ’ development project (estimated development budget: Euro 11 million) is based on refurbishment and conversion of three historical semidetached city houses into a unique 90 room hotel with a total area of app. 4.500 m2.

With history of over 1000 years, Gdańsk is one of the oldest, one of the most dynamic, most popular tourist destinations in Poland. Together with Gdynia and Sopot, Gdańsk forms a conurbation of over 1.2 million inhabitants. Gdańsk, as the capital of the Pomerania Province is also an important academic and business centre in the country.

‘Długi Targ’ Hotel Development Project is a unique property acquired by Von der Heyden Group in a complex tender from Bank Millennium S.A. some years back and is located in the most attractive part in the heart of Gdańsk, at the corner of historical Długi Targ Boulevard and Mieszczanska Street, almost opposite to the Neptun’s Statute and the Dwór Artusa Building.

A complex tender for a General Contractor for construction works has been won by the locally based, renowned company, Allcon Sp. z o.o. sp. k. and the construction agreement was signed in April 2016. The chosen architect for the ‘Długi Targ’ Project is also a locally based company ‘Architectonica’ S.A. and the interior design is made by ‘TOYA Design’ Sp. z o.o. from Poznań. The Project Manger is ‘Probuild’ Sp. z o.o. The financing Bank for the Project is Alior Bank S.A.

The initial concept of Von der Heyden Group was to create a top 5* refined boutique hotel, however, due to changing market environment, the initial idea responded the local market needs and an efficient and trendy 3* Superior hotel will be created. The building will also have prime retail space on the ground floor. The characteristics of the external façade will be preserved, however at the same time, the interiors will be modern and full of innovative solutions.

The IBB Hotel Długi Targ in Gdańsk will be opened in late summer 2017 and will be managed by IBB Hotel Collection (IBBHC). In Poland, IBBHC successully operates two renowned 4* hotels: IBB Grand Hotel Lublinianka in Lublin and IBB Andersia Hotel in Poznań, both enjoying the best results in terms of REVPAR and occupancy. IBBBHC operates as well two 4* hotels and two 3* hotels in Germany, as well as three hotels in Spain: one 5* hotel, one 4* hotel and one 3* hotel (more info about IBBHC: http://www.ibbhotels.com).

In the new hotel in Gdańsk, guests will have 90 rooms and comfortable apartments at their disposal located on five above-ground storeys. The hotel will offer business facilities such as free in-room internet and business corners with a computer/printer for a public use. The hotel will also be focused on touristic groups with a drive-in access for busses, being the only hotel in the area with such a convenience. The venue will also offer retail lease and exquisite boutiques.

The city of Gdańsk will offer unforgettable memories and numerous events like e.g. St. Dominic’s Fair that is held in Długi Targ Boulevard, it’s the oldest dated from the 13th century, the most famous, and one of the largest open air events in Europe that attracts about 6.5 mln guests to Gdańsk every summer.

‘Długi Targ’ Hotel Project will be the first development project of Von der Heyden Group in Gdańsk and the Group is actively observing the local market for further opportunities there.

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Symbolic laying of the foundation stone for the Bavaria Towers in Munich!

Festive event for a groundbreaking high-rise development: Symbolic laying of the foundation stone for the Bavaria Towers in Munich

  • Festivities attended by more than 200 guests and prominent representatives from politics
  • Futuristic “Martian” arrives with time capsule
  • Construction of the 4 highrise towers already in advanced stages
  • The 380 million Euro project is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2018

Munich, June 22, 2017 – Tomorrow starts today! The festive laying of the foundation stone for the Bavaria Towers in the eastern part of the capital city of Bavaria marked the beginning of one of the most spectacular developments in the recent history of Munich. Three office towers and a hotel tower will redefine the skyline of Munich and make an impressive visual statement on the main access to the district of Bogenhausen. The festive event was attended by Munich‘s Deputy Mayor Josef Schmid as well as the Head of the Urban Planning and Construction Authority, Prof. Dr. Elisabeth Merk, the architects and others involved in the project alongside the 200 guests from both business and public administration. They accepted the invitation by developer Bayern Projekt and its investment partners Von der Heyden Group und Zurich Group Germany. The symbolic foundation stone was placed in the center of the development among the well progressed highrise towers, in order to ensure its visibility for future occupiers and visitors. The White Tower will be leased by the new premium hotel Hyperion and has already been completed up to the 14th floor. The highlight of the event was the „landing“ of a „Martian“, who handed over a time capsule holding plans, daily newspapers and coins to be immured into the foundation stone. Sven Renz, Managing Director of Bayern Projekt GmbH during the ceremony: „As strong as the State of Bavaria, as pioneering as our capital city Munich – the Bavaria Towers will make an important contribution to shaping the new face of Munich and the entire precinct around the eastern gateway to our beautiful city. This important contribution to contemporary urban planning was always a top priority on our agenda and it is the reason why we created an architectural highlight that will make the residents of Munich proud of their city and at the same time will make the quality and standards of tomorrow available to be enjoyed by its occupiers today – in keeping with our motto ‚Tomorrow starts today‘.“

The laying of the foundation stone kickstarts one of Munich‘s most important development projects. The 380 million Euro development at the corner of Einsteinstraße and Prinzregentenstraße is the first highrise development project to have received planning permission in Munich for many years, and only because it does not impact on the city‘s visual axis. The urban significance of the site necessitated many years of development planning with the city administration as well as an architecture tender, which saw the project being awarded to the Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos team of architects. They designed four towers with a pentagonal building shape, which will raise the benchmark in the eastern city fringe to building heights of 46 to 84 metres.

White tower leased by Hyperion Hotel
Three office towers with a total floorspace of 62,000 sqm tenanted areas and a hotel tower leased by H-Hotels‘ new premium brand Hyperion to open in October 2018. The hotel occupies the 54 metre high White Tower and will become one of Munich‘s premier destinations for business travellers – the hotel scores with its direct proximity to the Munich exhibition centre. Services geared towards business travellers, such as valet parking, business lounges featuring dedicated check-in and concierge services are among the many highlights offered by this new hotel with its 345 guest rooms. The central (neighbourhood) square will be located between the towers and bestow the entire precinct with a welcoming campus flair boasting inviting facilities and services. The profile of Munich‘s new architectural highlights is complemented by 960 car spaces in two underground car parks, office space starting at 250 sqm to accommodate single offices or open plan layouts as well as a pioneering sustainability concept. The towers will hold the prestigious LEED Gold or DGNB Gold sustainability certifications.

Construction works progressing well
The construction works at the high-profile project are on track. Sven Renz: „We will complete the building shells for all four towers before the end of the year. Completion of the entire project is currently planned for the third quarter of 2018.“ The biggest progress has so far been made at the White Tower, with 14 of its 15 floors already completed. 8 out of a total 20 floors have been completed in the 84 metre high Sky Tower, while the Blue Tower has 12 out of 18 completed and the Star Tower 6 out of its total 9. Installation of the facade has already commenced for the lower parts of the White Tower.

Successful marketing campaign
Promising negotiations with prospective tenants interested in the prestigious office spaces at the gateway to Bogenhausen are currently underway. The attractive White Tower with its long lease to tenant H-Hotels AG has already been acquired by Swiss Life Asset Managers in the context of a forward deal. Sven Renz: „There‘s an extraordinary level of interest from prospective tenants for all available spaces and types of floor plans – from single floors to inquiries from large corporations concerning expansive accommodation for their new headquarter offices. We are not ready to disclose any names just yet, but expect to present reputable and renowned tenants in the next few months.“

The project is the brainchild of development company Bayern Projekt GmbH, who have teamed up with the investment partners Von der Heyden Group and Zurich Group Germany to bring this exciting new development to life.

Facts & Figures

Sky Tower
Height: 83,60 m
Number of floors: 20
Gross floorspace: 26.246 sqm
Roof terraces: 2. and 19. upper floors
Underground car park spaces: 380
Certification: DGNB-Gold
Owner: Zurich Insurance plc.

Star Tower
Height: 46,10 m
Number of floors: 9
Gross floorspace: 11.908 sqm
Roof terraces: 2. and 8. upper floors
Underground car park spaces: 140
Certification: DGNB-Gold
Owner: Zurich Insurance plc.

Blue Tower
Height: 72,30 m
Number of floors: 18
Gross floorspace: 24.347 sqm
Roof terraces: 2. upper floor
Underground car park spaces: 300
Certification: LEED-Gold
Owner: Bogenhausener Tor Immobilien GmbH

White Tower
Leased by Hyperion Hotel
Height: 53,60 m
Number of floors: 15
Gross floorspace: 15.150 sqm
Roof terraces: 2. and 8. upper floors
Underground car park spaces: 140
Certification: LEED-Gold
Owner: Swiss Life Asset Managers

Bavaria Towers Ground Breaking – Press Release EN – 22 06 2017