Path is being progressively unobstructed for a fresh city area; the museum is edging nearer.
The Demolition Ball's Rolling:
Demolition work is wrapped up, kids! Gypsum board walls, insulation, asbestos-laden plaster, and floor coverings are outta here. Get ready for more next week! In the days ahead, windows and doors will meet their fate, roof structures will succumb to disassembly, and safety precautions will be put in place. By the end of June, the buildings' external shell will take a dive, and we can expect demolition to wrap up roughly a month after that.
Mönchengladbach's own development company (EWMG) is taking the reins for this demolition spectacle. "With the acquisition of these buildings and the current demolition, we're laying the groundwork for a major revamp project in Gladbach's city center," says EWMG’s CEO, Dr. Ulrich Schückhaus. Mayor Felix Heinrichs emphasizes the urban significance of the project. "We're transforming a chunk of the city center into a fresh, modern urban hub," says Heinrichs.
As a cherry on top, the project will forge a direct connection between the internationally acclaimed Abteiberg Museum and the city center—just as star architect Hans Hollein envisioned back in the '80s. "This demolition is reviving a long-held vision for Mönchengladbach. We've been working with the public and politics to make this dream a reality, hosting events, consultations, and discussions with residents," says Technical Deputy Mayor Claudia Schwan-Schmitz.
Before we dive into designing the new urban space, a few steps are needed. Approval from political bodies is on tap for June, allowing for the completion of detailed planning and the tender and award of construction services. The brownfield site at the former Hotel Oberstadt and adjacent buildings will be remodeled starting in early 2026, with construction lasting around a year.
The heart of the reworked square will be a barrier-free pedestrian path that leads straight to the museum. Red mast lights will guide the way, and small pedestals for art exhibitions will create a link to the Abteiberg Museum. It's not just about giving the museum a new entrance—this space will be a green oasis in the city, with seating, trees, and lush greenery. Ten new trees have already been planted!
Amidst the greenery, you'll find inviting seating areas, and rainwater will be allowed to trickle through strategically. Excess water during heavy rainfall will flow into overflow channels directing it to the sewer system. Paved areas facing Hindenburgstraße will offer space for additional seating, al fresco dining, and playful kiddos, transforming into a "city terrace."
The breakthrough to the Abteiberg Museum is part of the urban development program "Social City Gladbach and Westend" and is tied to a series of measures in the Hindenburgstraße area, such as the permanent greening of Sonnenhausplatz, the upgrade of the youth center STEP, and the redesign of Johann-Peter-Boelling-Platz and Alter Markt.
Sustainability-focused projects are sprouting up all over the region, like the transformation of Rheinisches Revier into a climate-neutral area, which encompasses resource-optimized urban spaces and sustainable construction methods.
The home-and-garden makeover will be a significant part of Mönchengladbach's city center revitalization, as the remodeled brownfield site, previously home to Hotel Oberstadt, will feature a green oasis complete with seating, trees, and lush greenery, creating a vibrant urban hub. The lifestyle transformation of the city center includes the planting of ten new trees, the implementation of rainwater management systems, and the integration of inviting seating areas, contributing to a sustainable and welcoming environment.
