BOB CAMPUS – Transformation einer stillgelegten Textilfabrik

The transformation of a former textile factory into the BOB CAMPUS in Wuppertal-Oberbarmen demonstrates how an urban wasteland can be converted into a new space for community. In two volumes, the design processes of the award-winning site become visible. Volume 1, which will be published first, is dedicated to the building process and the gradually developing spatial qualities. Through the interplay of innovative solutions to architectural challenges, the appreciative treatment of the historic site and the existing building fabric, and a continuously coproductive process of many actors, a unique mix of uses emerges, including daycare centers, school rooms, offices, apartments, and communal spaces. Powerful images illustrate how it is possible to build for the common good—and what opportunities this offers for society. An incentive to imitate.

Montag Stiftung Urbane Räume is based in Bonn, and acts as an independent partner to municipalities, organizations, and civil initiatives in urbanized areas shaped by underprivileged social and economic conditions. Following its original approach with the name of "initial capital" and based on the concept of responsible ownership, the foundation develops estates offering new opportunities and providing a lasting contribution to their surroundings.
The foundation is currently exploring co-productive processes for urban development across six projects. Once the buildings are renovated and fully leased the projects become self-funding, and provide space for community engagement. Fair rents generate a moderate surplus which is used to support community projects in the immediate neighborhoods throughout the projects operating period.

„Das Buch veranschaulicht die Transformation der ehemaligen Textilfabrik durch rundgangartige Fotos des Areals aus unterschiedlichen Perspektiven. Spots auf den Arbeits-, Lern- und Freizeitbereich machen soziale Momente erlebbar. Fotos und textliche Beiträge verdeutlichen die besondere Nutzungsmischung, die aus einem kooperativen Prozess vieler Beteiligter entstanden ist. […] Nicht nur für Architekt*innen und Stadtplaner*innen, sondern für alle, die an einer lebendigen und sozialen Quartiersentwicklung arbeiten, ist BOB CAMPUS – Transformation einer stillgelegten Textilfabrik ein empfehlenswertes Buch!“ (Natalie Deissler-Hesse in Jugendhilfereport)