The Future of Craftsmen in Düsseldorf: Innovative Solutions and Urban Development
The Challenge of Finding Suitable Locations for Craft Businesses
Craft businesses in Düsseldorf are facing a significant challenge: finding suitable locations. Many centrally located areas, often in backyards, are being displaced due to various factors. Residents are increasingly critical of emissions, property owners are seeking more profitable uses in the competitive housing market, and there are logistical issues for fleets in extended residential park areas. This displacement is a growing concern for the Düsseldorf Chamber of Crafts (HWK), which is actively seeking solutions to meet the needs of many craft businesses.
The Südring: A Promising Location for New Craftsmen
One potential solution is the development of new craftsmen facilities on the Südring. This area is already seeing significant development, with the new high school, Luisen-Gymnasium, being constructed nearby. The Greens have recognized the potential of this location and are focusing on developing a new area on Tetelberg. The site, located near the Chamber of Crafts between Volmerwerther Straße, Südring, and Völklinger Straße, has already defined six construction fields aimed at creating favorable living spaces, including trainee apartments and multi-generation projects.
The Vision of a Multi-Story Craftsmen’s Campus
The Greens’ vision for the Südring involves creating an innovative "master quarters" in the form of stacked craftsmen. This concept, developed in collaboration with the Stöbe architecture firm, aims to house 50 to 100 craft businesses under one roof. Clara Gerlach, Green Mayor and OB candidate, emphasizes the urgency of this project, stating that every fourth craft business in Düsseldorf is currently looking for a new location. The proposed multi-story craftsmen’s campus would accommodate a variety of trades, from car operations to carpentry, locksmithing, and even goldsmithing.
The Architecture and Design of the Craftsmen’s Campus
Architect Kaspar Stöbe and his team have developed a concept that addresses the diverse needs of craftsmen. The proposed craft center along the Südring would feature a flexible, shelf-like structure that can accommodate different sizes and types of operations. This sustainable building would be highly adaptable, allowing for easy conversion and removal of areas as needed. The design includes a photovoltaic (PV) system for inexpensive energy, further enhancing its sustainability.
The Benefits of the Tetelberg Location
Frank Schulz, spokesperson for the Green Council Group, highlights the ideal nature of the Tetelberg location for the project. The area, previously considered for office development, is now seen as a prime spot for the stacked craftsmen’s courtyards. This development would not only provide noise protection along the Südring but also create a vibrant, mixed-use quarter with opportunities for learning, working, and living.
Additional Potential for the Tetelberg Area
From Gerlach’s perspective, the Tetelberg location offers even more potential. In addition to the multi-story craftsmen, the area could also host inter-company training for district craftsmen, who are also seeking new locations. The adjacent housing areas could be supplemented with trainee apartments for craftsmen, further enhancing the area’s utility and appeal.
Industry Expert Insights and Feasibility
Dr. Axel Fuhrmann, managing director of the Chamber of Crafts, is impressed by the Greens’ idea. He notes that if suitable areas are not found in Düsseldorf, craft businesses may migrate to the surrounding areas, as seen with the recent relocation of the Soeffing company. The study shows opportunities for units of 100 to 300 square meters, which are often uninteresting for normal developers. The focus on sufficient floor loads and ceiling heights, crucial for craftsmen, is a key aspect of the feasibility study.
Future Steps and Feasibility Study
The Greens plan to present their idea in the council meeting and request a feasibility study from the administration. While the study is underway, which could take a year or two, the construction plan procedure should be coordinated to enable this option. The advantage is that the entire area already belongs to the city, simplifying the development process. However, even with general approval and all permits, attracting craftsmen to the area remains a challenge.
Did You Know?
The concept of vertical integration in craftsmanship is not new, but the scale and sustainability focus of the proposed Düsseldorf project are unprecedented. This innovative approach could set a new standard for urban craftsmanship development.
Pro Tips for Craft Businesses Seeking New Locations
- Evaluate Sustainability: Look for locations that prioritize sustainable practices, such as renewable energy sources and efficient use of space.
- Consider Flexibility: Opt for spaces that can be easily adapted to changing business needs.
- Engage with Local Governments: Collaborate with local authorities to identify potential sites and negotiate favorable terms.
FAQ Section
Q: What are the main challenges faced by craft businesses in Düsseldorf?
A: Craft businesses in Düsseldorf are facing issues such as displacement from centrally located areas, emissions concerns, and the competitive housing market.
Q: What is the proposed solution for these challenges?
A: The Greens propose building a multi-story craftsmen’s campus on the Südring, which would house 50 to 100 craft businesses under one roof.
Q: What are the benefits of the proposed location on Tetelberg?
A: The Tetelberg location offers noise protection, a mixed-use quarter, and potential for inter-company training and trainee apartments for craftsmen.
Q: How does the proposed design address the needs of craftsmen?
A: The design features a flexible, shelf-like structure that can accommodate different sizes and types of operations, with a focus on sustainability and adaptability.
Call to Action
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