Leerstand als Begegnungsraum Bonn

In the location's words:

In the heart of Bonn's city center, we transform vacant stores into lively meeting spaces. We create places where people can come together outside their usual bubble, exchange ideas and simply be there - without any pressure to consume. We have already moved a few times on our "wild journey" through Brüdergasse: After nine months at Brüdergasse 4, a fast food outlet moved in. So in July 2024, we filled the next vacancy at Brüdergasse 11 with life before moving on to Friedrichstrasse 5 in January 2025. That's where you'll find us now!

The idea behind it is simple: instead of seeing vacancies as a problem, we want to see them as an opportunity. Our project "Vacancy as a meeting space" creates spaces for dialog, exchange and community - with creative and experimental formats that help to overcome prejudices and discover new perspectives. In times when online shopping is displacing more and more bricks-and-mortar stores, we want to ask the question: Does the next fast-fashion chain really have to move in? Or can we rethink the city center together - as a place for culture, encounters and togetherness, away from consumption?

It is striking: There is a lack of spaces where people can simply spend time. Parks are a nice alternative in summer, but when the weather is bad, there are hardly any places where you can relax, read or meet up - without having to buy anything. This is exactly where our meeting space comes in.

The project was launched in October 2023 by four students: Theresa, Toni, Hannah and Rosa. Since then, the team has grown and many dedicated people ensure that the space is open every day and offers a varied program. Anyone can join in - maybe you too?

The whole thing was initially financed with the support of Alanus Impact e.V., the Friends of Alanus University, the "Engagiert in NRW" funding program and a crowdfunding campaign by Stadtwerke Bonn. Further crowdfunding campaigns secured the space in the winter months of 2023/24. In spring 2024, the Bonn Cultural Office took over the funding, followed by the Bonn City Centre Management from April 2024. Since February 2025, we have been delighted to receive generous support from the Bonn Donations Parliament, which also makes our free store "für LaU" possible in the meeting space.

The legal sponsorship lies with Alanus Impact e.V. - and our sincere thanks go to all our supporters. Together, we are creating a place where encounters, culture and togetherness are once again given more space in the city center!