Solingen's Transforming Gardens turns urban spaces into green community hubs
A new community project called Transforming Gardens will launch in Solingen’s city centre at the end of May. The initiative aims to bring more greenery into urban spaces while encouraging local residents to get involved in shaping their neighbourhood. The project kicks off on Friday, 29 May, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at MITTEndrin on Hauptstraße. During the event, the first five planters—made from corrugated steel pipes—will be installed. Organisers have invited everyone to join, share ideas, and help plant the new greenery.
After the launch, a guided walk through the city centre will highlight further potential locations for the project. Two more sites, at Fronhof and the corner of Fühlstein and Linkgasse, are already planned for future installations. *Transforming Gardens* is part of Solingen’s *Integrated Urban Development Concept (ISEK) 'City 2030'*. The city, design studio *Studio Quack*, and local volunteers are working together to improve public spaces. The goal is to make the downtown area more attractive while fostering stronger community ties through shared green spaces.
The project combines urban greening with neighbourhood participation. By installing planters and encouraging public input, the city hopes to create more inviting and socially active spaces. Residents are invited to contribute their ideas and help shape the future of Solingen’s city centre.