Living Spaces with Demands and a Future
Interview with Constantin Schindler, Managing Director of AREAL Projektentwicklung GmbH
Living space is more than just a roof over your head. It shapes quality of life, connects people with their environment, and creates value for generations. Especially in times of growing cities, rising construction costs, and increasing demands for sustainability, project developers are needed who think outside the box. AREAL Projektentwicklung GmbH from Waldkirch sets standards in housing construction with a clear focus on quality, architectural design, and regional roots – proving that economic success and design excellence need not be contradictory.
AREAL Projektentwicklung GmbH is not a developer in the traditional sense - and does not want to be. Instead of focusing on a multitude of parallel construction projects, the company concentrates on individually developed projects that are convincing both architecturally and functionally. "We develop one to two projects per year - deliberately chosen and with the goal of creating real values for generations, tailored to our capacities and quality standards," explains Constantin Schindler, who leads the company in its 2nd generation.
Custom projects instead of mass production
The company was founded in 2000 by Constantin Schindler's father with the idea of offering architectural expertise in planning, design, and execution from a single source, while tasks such as sales or legal services are specifically outsourced to external partners.
A prime example of individually developed projects is the large-scale Sonnhalde project in Waldkirch, the company's home base. Here, on a sloping plot, a residential complex with 140 modern housing units is being created in several construction phases. The first phase will be handed over to buyers in fall 2025, with more to follow in the coming years. "Through a smart urban layout, we have managed to create many apartments with unobstructed views despite high density," says Constantin Schindler. "This shows that good planning and architecture achieve more than just optimizing square footage."
Sonnhalde was not only designed for sale – some of the units will remain in the long-term holdings of AREAL Projektentwicklung. "We also want to contribute to housing supply in the region on a long-term basis – especially in the rental segment, which is under strong pressure in many places," the CEO further stated.
Building on Existing Sites: Sustainable, Economical, Forward-Looking
Alongside new construction projects, building on existing sites is increasingly becoming a focus for AREAL Project Development. In Freiburg, the company is working on a demanding project involving adding levels and backyard densification. The goal is to intelligently develop existing urban structures without consuming new land. "Especially in urban areas, it is important to activate unused potentials," notes Constantin Schindler. He also makes it clear: "Demolition is no longer our standard solution. We check what can be preserved and enhanced – both ecologically and economically." The sustainable approach is also evident in the project development itself: AREAL prefers to work with long-term financial partners, avoids speculative models, and relies on solid, mid-sized structures. "We think of our projects from a human perspective – not from the perspective of maximum return on investment," explains Constantin Schindler.
Projects with Lasting Impact
A look at the recent past shows: AREAL Project Development GmbH has earned its reputation as a quality developer over the years. For example, in the Wiehre district of Freiburg, a multifamily dwelling with nine units was realized – a project that stood out for its clear architectural language and cohesive integration into the neighborhood.
Another project: the repurposing of a former smelting plant site in Waldkirch, which AREAL Project Development transformed into a high-quality residential location. A former kindergarten use was also reimagined and brought back to life by the company. These projects exemplify the company's philosophy: Instead of standardized solutions, each site is viewed individually – with respect for its history and with a clear view of the future.
Regional, Sustainable, Innovative
For the coming years, Constantin Schindler has set clear goals: "AREAL Projektentwicklung GmbH aims to further expand its strong position in the Freiburg region. Here, quality always takes precedence over quantity. We want to create special living spaces – not the fastest, but the best solution counts."
Despite or precisely because of the current challenges in the construction and real estate industry, Constantin Schindler looks ahead optimistically. "We need to bring back more experimentation in construction," he demands. He sees the new building standard model 'Building Class E' as an opportunity to build more cost-effectively and with design freedom – provided that the legislator creates the necessary legal certainty. Other trends that AREAL is actively addressing include the prefabrication of components to speed up processes, as well as new models in timber construction, such as through general contractor solutions. Here, Schindler remains pragmatic: "Not every project is suitable for wood. Concrete still has its place – for example, for underground parking or load-bearing components."
Internationalization is not currently on the agenda. The focus on the Freiburg region is a strategic choice. Here, Constantin Schindler sees great potential: a growing population, high quality of life – and a tremendous need for well-thought-out living space. "We want to contribute to making this wonderful region livable and sustainable for the future."