The Squaire.

Introduction: The Squaire’s Significance in Frankfurt

The Squaire is a groundbreaking structure at Frankfurt Airport, symbolizing the city’s role as a crossroads of global mobility and commerce. Opened in 2011, it is one of Germany’s largest office buildings, offering approximately 140,000 square meters of floor space directly above the airport’s long-distance railway station. Designed to echo the form of an aircraft fuselage, The Squaire stands as a testament to modern architectural innovation, sustainability, and urban integration. Its seamless connectivity to air, rail, and road networks makes it not just a commercial hub, but a vibrant “micro-city” catering to travelers, professionals, and visitors alike (Archello, The Squaire Official Website, Discover Germany).

Origins and Development

Conceived in the early 2000s as a visionary “New Work City,” The Squaire was developed to support Frankfurt’s expanding role as a European business and transportation hub. Construction began in 2006, with the building officially opening in 2011. Its strategic location directly above Frankfurt Airport’s long-distance railway station allows for effortless transitions between global air travel and Europe’s extensive rail network (Archello).

Architectural Vision and Design

The Squaire’s design, by JSK Architekten, is notable for its aerodynamic, elongated form—measuring 660 meters long, 65 meters wide, and 45 meters high. Its glass and aluminum façade maximizes natural light and energy efficiency, while the structure itself hovers above active railway lines, showcasing remarkable engineering prowess (Archello).

Structural and Engineering Innovations

Building over active rail infrastructure required advanced engineering solutions. The Squaire is supported by intricate steel trusses and reinforced concrete, allowing it to span the railway without disrupting operations. Its façade provides both thermal insulation and noise reduction, vital for a site adjacent to the airport and Autobahn (Archello).

Mixed-Use Spaces and Amenities

The Squaire houses two major Hilton hotels (Hilton Frankfurt Airport and Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport), over 93,000 square meters of office space, and 5,900 square meters dedicated to retail, dining, and essential services. The central atrium, lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops, fosters a sense of openness and community. Major tenants include KPMG, Atos, Michelin, Porsche Consulting, and Regus, ensuring a dynamic business environment (Archello, FlexifyHQ).

Interior Design and Visitor Experience

Inside, The Squaire features contemporary, minimalist design with premium materials, abundant natural light, and clearly marked wayfinding. Amenities include quiet zones, co-working spaces, parking with over 3,000 spaces (including 80+ EV charging points), luggage storage, and direct access to trains and airport terminals (Roschmann Group, The Squaire Parking).

Dining options range from Bavarian cuisine at Paulaner to Italian specialties at Little Italy, while supermarkets (REWE) and drugstores (Rossmann) provide everyday essentials. The central atrium often hosts exhibitions and public events.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

• Public Spaces: Shops and restaurants generally open from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Office and hotel areas have varying access depending on tenancy or booking.
• Entry Fee: Free for public areas. Access to offices or events may require prior booking or tickets.
• Guided Tours: Not regularly available but can be arranged for special groups or events via the official website or concierge (The Squaire What's On).

Accessibility and Transportation

Location Advantages:

• Directly above the Frankfurt Airport long-distance railway station (ICE, S-Bahn, regional trains).
• Covered pedestrian connections to Terminal 1 and easy access to Terminal 2.
• Adjacent to Autobahn A3 and B43, with more than 3,000 secure parking spots.

Accessibility Features:

• Full barrier-free access: elevators, ramps, and wide corridors.
• Clearly marked, multilingual signage.
• Concierge services for assistance and information.
• Accessible MiniMetro shuttle linking the car park to The Squaire (FlexifyHQ, Future Airport).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Frankfurt City Center is only 12–15 minutes away by train. Notable attractions include:

• Römerberg & Old Town: Medieval city hall and half-timbered houses (Holidify).
• St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral: Iconic Gothic architecture.
• Museumsufer: The Museum Embankment with the Städel and Jewish Museums (Visit Frankfurt).
• Main Tower: Panoramic city views.
• Kleinmarkthalle: Traditional indoor market.

Day Trips from The Squaire include:

• Burg Eltz: Medieval castle (Grumpy Camel).
• Mainz: Historic city, 30 minutes by train (TravelTriangle).
• Darmstadt: Art Nouveau architecture and Waldspirale.
• Baden-Baden/Black Forest: Thermal baths and scenic hiking (TravelTriangle).

Practical Tips:

• Luggage storage and concierge services are available.
• Consider a Frankfurt Card for unlimited public transport and attraction discounts (Visit Frankfurt).
• Weather is not an issue, thanks to covered walkways and climate-controlled interiors.

Special Events and Guided Tours

The Squaire regularly hosts business conferences, exhibitions, and public events in its spacious atrium and hotel conference facilities. While public guided tours are uncommon, special group tours may be arranged upon request (The Squaire What's On).

Sustainability Highlights

The Squaire is a recognized leader in sustainable commercial real estate:

• Certifications: BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and LEED® Gold (Discover Germany, Roschmann Group, Yuanda Europe).
• Energy Efficiency: Advanced HVAC systems expected to save 11,500 tonnes of CO₂ by 2025 (Discover Germany).
• Water Conservation: Smart monitoring systems immediately detect leaks and optimize usage (Smartvatten).
• Sustainable Mobility: Over 80 EV charging points, 20 of which are Tesla Superchargers, with plans for further expansion (Discover Germany).
• Adaptive Spaces: Flexible layouts and abundant daylight through a glass roof, designed for occupant well-being (Roschmann Group).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are The Squaire’s visiting hours?
A: Shops and restaurants operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM; the building is accessible 24/7 for hotel guests and tenants.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, access to public areas is free. Special events or exhibitions may require tickets.

Q: Can I take a guided tour?
A: Guided tours are not regular but can be arranged for groups or special occasions by contacting the concierge.

Q: How do I get to Frankfurt city center?
A: Take the S8 or S9 S-Bahn from the station beneath The Squaire—about 12–15 minutes to the city center.

Q: Is The Squaire accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the complex is fully barrier-free, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are there EV charging points and parking?
A: Yes, over 3,000 parking spots and 80+ charging points, including Tesla Superchargers (The Squaire Parking).