The controversial futuristic facade of a former Printemps department store in Strasbourg has become a defining feature of the city's skyline since 2013, but recent promotional materials suggesting its removal have sparked confusion among city officials. Real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield recently published renderings showing the building completely renovated with a traditional white exterior, prompting questions about whether the distinctive "champagne-colored" facade would actually be removed from the prominent location at Place de l'Homme de Fer.

However, Strasbourg city officials have firmly denied any formal plans for the facade's removal. Joël Steffen, deputy mayor in charge of commerce, stated that no building permits have been filed for such modifications. According to Steffen, the renderings published by Cushman & Wakefield are merely conceptual sketches created to attract potential tenants to the vacant commercial space. "These are just preliminary drawings made with the goal of finding occupants," he explained.

The building's location presents significant regulatory challenges for any major exterior modifications. The former Printemps store sits within the protected perimeter of Grande Île, Strasbourg's historic center that requires special preservation considerations. "[The building] is located within the safeguarding and enhancement perimeter of Grande Île. This requires discussions with the building authorities" before any facade changes could be approved, Steffen emphasized. This protected status means that any alterations to the building's exterior must undergo extensive consultation with local heritage preservation officials.

Safety concerns have already prompted some modifications to the building's exterior. Earlier this year, a piece of metal sheeting detached from the facade and crashed to the ground near pedestrians, raising alarm about the structure's condition. In response, building managers installed protective netting over the facade in May to prevent further debris from potentially injuring passersby. This incident highlighted ongoing maintenance issues with the distinctive exterior that has divided public opinion since its installation.

The building's current owner is taking a phased approach to the property's renovation, according to city officials. Following the safety incident, the interior has undergone cleaning and preparation work while the facade remains secured with protective measures. The property manager indicated that renovations are being handled "step by step," focusing first on safety concerns and interior preparation before addressing any potential exterior changes.

Despite the promotional renderings, the timeline for any significant changes remains unclear. The Cushman & Wakefield listing suggests availability only in the fourth quarter of 2023, indicating that any major renovations or tenant improvements would be far in the future. The building's owner has declined to comment publicly on plans for the property, leaving the ultimate fate of the polarizing facade uncertain for now.