Published on 27/09/2026 – 12:22 GMT+2
Living above a discount supermarket on the otherwise exclusive North Sea island beloved of high earners: how this new Lidl is set to completely transform the world-famous luxury holiday destination of Sylt, with its dunes and thatched-roof houses.
On Sylt, the traditional shopping experience is being completely reimagined. On a 16,000‑square‑metre site, Lidl is combining a state‑of‑the‑art store on the ground floor with 15 new apartments directly above. The homes, ranging from 44 to 78 square metres, are designed for permanent residency. For the island, this represents a genuine breakthrough, aimed primarily at providing commuters with affordable housing near their workplaces. Mayor Tina Haltermann praised the project, calling it a pioneering step that demonstrates how modern retail and residential space can be combined while using minimal land.
The old building becomes a new XXL hub for everyday needs
The assumption that the old structure has been demolished to make room for the new build is incorrect. The existing Lidl building is being retained and repurposed. It will be integrated with the new complex to form a vibrant local services hub. Plans already call for a pharmacy, a health and beauty shop, and several regional businesses to occupy the existing spaces. This will create a new central point of contact for both residents and visitors of Sylt.
Eco milestone: a supermarket made entirely of wood
Lidl is employing a resource‑efficient hybrid timber construction method, partially greening the façade and roof, and radically recycling materials. Outside, re‑processed concrete is reused as paving; inside, secondary plastics, recycled glass, and aluminium are used.
From an energy perspective, the complex is designed to be completely self‑sufficient. A large photovoltaic array on the roof generates green electricity, while waste heat from product refrigeration is captured through advanced ventilation systems and heat pumps to provide heating and cooling for the building.
XXL shopping comfort and high‑speed charging stations
For shoppers, the new development brings upgrades across the board. The 1,600‑square‑metre sales floor features extra‑wide aisles and a completely refreshed product presentation. With 184 parking spaces, shopping remains as relaxed as possible. A particular highlight for electric‑vehicle drivers: three ultra‑modern charging columns, each offering six charging points, are being installed on site, delivering ultra‑fast direct current power between 60 and 180 kilowatts to charge vehicles.