Wiesbaden's Red Tower: Deterioration, Rodent Infestation, and Destructive Graffiti
In the heart of Wiesbaden's Schelmengraben neighbourhood lies the "Red High-Rise," a building complex that has fallen into disrepair over the years. As of mid-2025, there is no specific information available about the current status or future plans for its renovation.
The "Red High-Rise" has faced various issues, including obstructed escape routes due to glass shards in the stairwell, graffiti-covered walls on the 16th floor, and a lack of door handle on an emergency exit door. The basement is inaccessible via the elevator due to a destroyed card reader, and the stairwell lacks sufficient lighting. Garbage piles up on the concrete walls, and a warning sign at the entrance indicates the use of rat and mouse control agents.
Despite these challenges, the city's Traffic and Building Commissioner, Andreas Kowol (Greens), sees the purchase of the "Red High-Rise" by the city development company (SEG) as an opportunity for the entire residential quarter. The SEG has plans for a comprehensive renovation of the entire building complex, including the preservation and supplementation of vacant retail space with a new supermarket.
The "Red High-Rise" is situated near the HSK (Helios Dr. Horst Schmidt Clinics Wiesbaden), a forest area, and an adjacent wine landscape. However, its dilapidated state has prevented it from becoming an attractive residential area. The city of Wiesbaden is now responsible for renovating the "Red High-Rise," which was constructed in 1978.
Residents of the "Red High-Rise" have reported issues such as a rat infestation and elevators that only work intermittently, posing a problem for elderly residents living on the 16th floor. Additionally, a dark discoloration above a balcony suggests a fire or mold, and the inside of the functioning elevator smells strongly of urine. The fire hose cabinets are damaged and difficult to access in case of a fire.
The modernization measures aim to counteract the current poor development of the building complex and make Schelmengraben an attractive residential area. For the most accurate and updated information, it would be advisable to consult local Wiesbaden municipal planning offices, housing authorities, or news outlets specialized in regional real estate developments.
- The city development company (SEG) is planning to invest in the renovation of the "Red High-Rise," aimed at enhancing the housing-market value and making Schelmengraben an attractive residential area.
- The comprehensive renovation of the "Red High-Rise" by the SEG includes plans for preserving and supplementing vacant retail space with a new supermarket, which may positively impact the local finance sector by stimulating real-estate investments.
