“Haus der Neugier”

It is the largest construction effort in Aachen’s postwar history: the transformation of the former Horten-Haus in the heart of the city. Once a bustling department store and symbol of mid-century consumer culture, the structure will soon become a dynamic center for learning, creativity, and community life. The project, known as “Haus der Neugier” – literally “house of curiosity” – aims to create a discovery center that serves as a vibrant public space where education, culture, and civic engagement intersect – a place that not only strengthens the city’s educational landscape but also revitalizes downtown.

From the outset, Aachen’s residents are being invited to take part in shaping the project. Reviving such a massive complex after years of standing vacant requires vision, persistence, and broad community support.

There’s no way around it: the entire neighborhood – including the former department store, the adjacent bus station, the city library, and the surrounding area with its current challenges – will be completely reimagined. Local retailers are already sensing the shift, expressing optimism and strong interest in the plans. The momentum is palpable, particularly along Dahmengraben, where new shops and creative business concepts are filling previously vacant storefronts, signaling a renewed spirit of entrepreneurship and confidence.

A Place to Gather, Exchange Ideas, and Explore

A feasibility study commissioned in 2022 identified the key to success: bringing together the Aachen Adult Education Center (VHS) and the City Library under one roof. This is not a merger, but a partnership – a way to weave together the distinct strengths of both institutions in a shared, open environment that invites people to linger, share ideas, and get involved. The “Haus der Neugier” will replace closed classrooms with open “fields,” spaces that invite people to debate, collaborate, play, create, and learn. Visitors might attend an exhibition, take part in a hands-on workshop, or simply meet friends and be inspired by the cultural life around them.

This discovery center is envisioned as a welcoming community space – accessible to all, whether or not they come specifically for educational programs. It will be a lively hub of diversity, discovery, and fun, where shared experiences are shaped by the evolving needs and interests of its visitors.

A Cornerstone of Aachen’s Downtown Renewal

The initiative has already achieved something rare in civic life: unanimous support from the Aachen City Council. Recognizing its potential as both a cultural and economic catalyst, council members voted to acquire the Horten-Haus and move forward with the project.

The project represents a key building block in the redevelopment and reorientation of Aachen’s eastern downtown. The nationally acclaimed, Aachen-based firm kadawittfeldarchitektur has been commissioned to design and carry out the renovation. Total investment costs are estimated at around 100 million euros. In a later phase, new residential units will also be constructed near the bus station, further strengthening the area’s transformation.

For now, however, all efforts are focused on the “Haus der Neugier.” If everything goes according to plan, the project will be completed in 2029. And best of all, the people of Aachen are fully on board!

– Author: Jutta Bacher