The former, vacant Karstadt building on Rheydter Marktplatz in Mönchengladbach is being revitalised in line with current needs and gradually repurposed for new uses. On the ground floor of the property, which is located right next to the future ‘New Rheydt Administration Building’, the new Rheydt District Library is being created across approximately 2,050 m², featuring various themed areas, reading and study zones, a gaming lounge and many other facilities.

A new, transparent entrance area featuring a large sliding door system visually opens up the building towards the market square, creating a seamless transition between the urban environment and the interior, and extending a warm and open welcome.

The bright, modernised spaces create a harmonious, continuous environment that is highly inviting; thanks to the understated colour and material scheme, it has a subtle and calming effect. The gently contrasting pastel tones of the speckled floor instinctively guide visitors through the library and highlight the various themed areas. A large library window overlooking the market square, complete with various seating options and charging stations, invites visitors to read, work and linger.

Exposed ceiling installations, exposed existing columns and sustainable, recyclable materials are testament to a revitalisation of the fully accessible spaces that is consistently resource-efficient. Energy-efficient lighting technology provides uniform and zoned illumination and can be controlled flexibly to suit different lighting scenarios.

Newly designed toilet facilities, featuring a dedicated children’s cubicle and an accessible toilet for all, a free drinking water station, and a library-owned office wing spanning around 400 m², which is flooded with natural light thanks to new openings in the façade, round off the forward-looking layout.

With a range of activities for children and young people, flexible event spaces and a ‘library of things’ where everyday items can be borrowed, the new district library will become an open, inclusive space for all residents, creating a welcoming environment for education, culture and social interaction, which, through its appeal, is set to make a lasting contribution to the revitalisation of Rheydt town centre.

Location:

​Mönchengladbach

Developer:

​EWMG - Entwicklungsgesellschaft der Stadt Mönchengladbach mbH

GFA:

​ca. 2.050 m²

Completion:

2026

Object planning:

work phase 1-5

Interior & design:

work phase 1-4

Sustainability:

Resource-efficient refurbishment of an existing property, use of recyclable materials