Haus 23552 — A Hanseatic Home, Restored for Purpose

Hanseatic History

Haus 23552 stands within Lübeck's Innenstadt, the medieval island city that once served as the capital of the Hanseatic League and remains one of Germany's most complete UNESCO-listed old towns. Its narrow gabled facade, characteristic brick construction, and interior beam structure reflect the Backsteingotik tradition that shaped Northern European merchant cities from the 13th century onward.

Like many buildings in the Innenstadt, Haus 23552 has cycled through generations of merchant families, guild use, and post-war repurposing. Today it stands empty — structurally significant, historically layered, and in need of a purpose worthy of its walls.

Architectural Significance

The property sits inside the protected historic core, meaning any restoration must respect Denkmalschutz (heritage protection) requirements. HanseHerz works with local architects and craftspeople trained in traditional Lübeck brickwork, timber framing, and lime-mortar techniques to ensure the building's material integrity is preserved while modern insulation, accessibility, and safety systems are added invisibly.

Restoration Roadmap

1. Phase 1 · Ground Floor Community Kitchen

   Daily nutritional support for 200+ individuals, operated in partnership with Die Brücke.

2. Phase 2 · Floors 1–3 Emergency Shelter

   Safety, warmth, and psychological care in the heart of the city.

3. Phase 3 · Loft IT & Vocational Lab

   Bridging the digital divide for the homeless through practical skills training.

Humanitarian Impact

In partnership with Die Brücke, Haus 23552 will become a full-cycle care hub — offering meals, beds, psychological support, and paths back to employment. Corporate partners funding the restoration receive a tangible, tax-deductible contribution to both Lübeck's heritage and its most vulnerable residents.