Foster Mutual Assistance Amongst Yourself
In the heart of Düsseldorf, a unique multi-generational housing project is underway at Schloss Benrath. The initiative, named "Gemeinsam Leben am Schloss Benrath e.V.", was launched by the association of the same name on the grounds of the former Benrather Hospital.
The project, located at Hospitalstraße, aims to combat loneliness and anonymity among the elderly by promoting active community living. A partnership with the Arbeiterwohlfahrt Duesseldorf sees the operation of a care facility for eight people, while a group home for eight elderly residents will be located in the north-eastern building on Benrodestraße.
The historic chapel at the centre of the quarter will serve as a reminder of the former hospital. A staircase will be built on the open side of the chapel for future users to access this symbolic heart of the community.
SWD, the project's primary investor, has committed approximately 31.7 million euros to this construction project. Of the 60 apartments reserved for the Hospitalstraße 1 housing project in four houses, 35 will be publicly funded or subsidized, ensuring affordable housing for people with lower incomes.
Cold rent for the publicly funded apartments ranges from 6.80 to 10.80 euros per square meter, making them an affordable option for many. Cold rent for the privately financed apartments is expected to be 13 euros per square meter, which is below the average for new apartments in Düsseldorf.
Marion Warden, CEO of AWO Düsseldorf, has stated that new life is emerging around the remaining chapel on Schlossallee. The project encourages mutual assistance between young families and older residents, with shared leisure activities planned to foster a sense of community.
The housing project's website, www.gemeinsam-leben-am-schloss-benrath.de, provides more information about the project and its progress. The project continues to be open to more young families, offering a unique opportunity to be part of a vibrant, multi-generational community in the heart of Düsseldorf.
This project, strategically located at Hospitalstraße, not only offers affordable home-and-garden living options for individuals with lower incomes but also aims to improve the lifestyle of the elderly population by promoting communal living. The historic chapel, serving as a symbolic heart of the community, will be accessible via a new staircase, fostering a sense of unity among the residents.
