RATISBONA Handelsimmobilien, a Regensburg-based investor and project developer for sustainable retail properties, has started the revitalization of the well-known "Hohendorfer Marke" area at Hallesche Straße 120 in Merseburg. A modern Netto store with around 1,125 m² of retail space and 1,475 m² of total lettable space is being created on the approximately 16,450 m² site – while at the same time retaining and reusing large parts of the existing building stock. Completion is scheduled for autumn 2026.
In addition to the new construction of the Netto market, a bakery with a café as a meeting place for the neighbourhood and a new vivaFitness location are being built. For the fitness studio with around 1,050 m² of rental space, the former Norma market will be completely gutted and renovated. The technical equipment is also being comprehensively modernised – including the use of air-source heat pumps for a future-proof energy supply.
In addition, barrier-free rental space of between 30 and 170 m² is available in the adjacent commercial building – flexibly usable for practice, shop, studio or office.
Revitalization instead of demolition
With this project, RATISBONA Handelsimmobilien proves that the future can also be created from the existing. Instead of demolishing, they are thinking ahead: Around 75 percent of the existing areas will be retained and will be led into the future with new uses and modern technology. In this way, a place is created from the existing that continues to have an effect – resource-saving, economically sensible and with tangible added value for the city.
"With this project, we are showing that local supply and preservation are an excellent match. Instead of demolition, we focus on further development – well thought-out, economically and with a view to the region. This will create a retail location in Merseburg that secures supply and brings new life to existing structures," says Michelle Deobald, project developer at RATISBONA Handelsimmobilien.
New market in RATISBONA. ECO. Construction
The new Netto market will be launched after the RATISBONA. ECO. construction method and meets the BEG-40 energy standard. High-quality materials such as cellulose insulation and wooden elements are used in the interior, which ensure a pleasant indoor climate. Photovoltaic systems and heat pumps ensure an efficient energy supply. 128 parking spaces will be created for customers, including six fast charging points for electric vehicles.
Open spaces with function
Every detail counts in the outdoor space, too. The areas will remain largely paved, but will be reorganized and designed to adapt to the climate. Groups of trees and plant islands provide shade and improve the microclimate, while green peripheral zones and flower strips promote insects and create structure. Drainage areas and targeted greening reduce heating and drain rainwater in a controlled manner. This creates a functional location that shows that even asphalted surfaces can have an ecological and design effect.
Attractive location with future prospects
The location scores with its central location, good accessibility and integration into existing structures. The further development of the Hohendorf brand will create a lively retail and service location that combines local supply, leisure and new jobs. RATISBONA Handelsimmobilien is thus leading the location into the future – solidly, forward-looking and with a clear appreciation for the existing.
