Grimshaw Architects, in association with local project partners Konrath & Wennemar and FSWLA were recently selected to deliver their visionary masterplan strategy for the city center area of Mönchengladbach, Germany. Through close collaborative working with the citizens of Mönchengladbach, the aim is to produce a strategy to optimise the quality of life, improve the economy and the appearance of the inner-city areas. More images and architects’ description after the break.
The competition for the masterplan was created by MG 3.0 Masterplan Mönchengladbach, an association of local, ambitious and innovative businessmen and entrepreneurs who see considerable need to promote the urban development of the city. This polycentric city known for its traditional association with the textile industry was formed when two historically separate cities of Rheydt and Mönchengladbach, merged in the 1970s. Following initial research it became clear that there is increasing disparity between the two centres, which is further exacerbated by physical connections that require fundamental improvement.
The Grimshaw team was appointed in October 2011 and has been carrying out key background analysis and consultation to develop a vision. The aim is to shape a city with ‘two hearts that beat together’ acknowledging the different identities and functions of each center, whilst ensuring that they function as a comprehensive whole.
To achieve this complex task, Grimshaw and its partners have introduced a visionary masterplan strategy for Mönchengladbach based on a ‘Charter for Urban Life’. The strategy is driven not only with a focus on the urban fabric of the city with its structure and movement networks, but also draws on the economic, social and cultural context of the city and its people.
On 23rd November 2011, Sir Nicholas Grimshaw and other members of the team launched the public consultation into the masterplan with MG 3.0. The event was well received and the team has been collating valuable feedback since. The consultation runs throughout the project and is scheduled to be completed in 2012. It will take place as a series of workshops, events and via a website to ensure that the revitalisation of Mönchengladbach will be a wholly collaborative effort.
