Preservation of sandstone facade to remain extensive at the old Kaufhof building site
The renovation of the Station Mitte, a future learning, culture, and meeting center in Offenbach, is underway, and the dialogue for the tender of the general contractor responsible for the project is currently in progress.
One of the key aspects of the transformation is the restoration of the historic sandstone facade, which was previously hidden under aluminum panels. The preserved sandstone facade, a remnant from the 1907 original building and the 1930 extension, will be integrated into the redeveloped structure.
According to Paul-Gerhard Weiss, building commissioner and deputy chairman of Station Mitte GmbH, the plan is to preserve and restore this historical architectural element. The expert's report confirms that despite numerous structural changes, the remaining sandstone facade is in good condition.
The condition of the sandstone itself is also favourable, with Dr. Anette Ritter-Hoell, a sandstone expert, concluding that it has suffered minimal weathering. However, the specific details about how the sandstone facade will be made visible during the Station Mitte project are not yet explicitly described.
Offenbachers have expressed their desire to see the historic facade restored, but the costs for a possible restoration must be checked and integrated into the existing renovation plan. The financial resources for the redesign of Station Mitte are limited, and large parts of the building, including the attic and the corresponding facade, were rebuilt without sandstone in the late 1940s.
Despite these challenges, the intention to preserve and showcase the remaining sandstone facade is clear. The uncovering of the historic sandstone facade has already caught the attention of passersby and experts alike. In the coming months, it will be decided to what extent the sandstone facade can be made visible again and integrated into the redesign of the building.
The transformation of the former Karstadt building into Station Mitte is planned for completion in 2026, and the restored sandstone facade will be a significant part of this modernized city library and cultural center.
What will be the interior design focus of the renovated Station Mitte, given the importance placed on preserving and showcasing the historic sandstone facade? Could this lifestyle revamp extend to embracing eco-friendly materials and embracing a home-and-garden aesthetic, reflecting Offenbach's growing commitment to sustainability and community development?
