Student housing
Gescherweg project - new build and energy-efficient refurbishment
Living space is scarce in Münster. The Studierendenwerk therefore continues to pursue the strategy of creating new living space through densification on its own properties. Important milestones were reached in 2024, firstly for the Gescherweg III new-build project on a parking area of the existing student residence and secondly for the energy-efficient refurbishment of the existing building at Gescherweg 50-64.
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Awarding and start of planning
The entire tendering process for both measures was successfully carried out and completed. The conceptual planning then began. Initial drafts for the new building were agreed with the City of Münster. Due to urban planning concerns – particularly with regard to an originally planned seven-storey building – the plans were changed: instead of one large building, two smaller structures with the same total capacity of 190 residential units were created. This solution was developed in close consultation with the city planning office.
Energy-efficient refurbishment Gescherweg 50-64
Planning for the energy-efficient refurbishment was largely completed in 2024. The aim is to significantly improve the building’s energy efficiency and make use of subsidies – including from BAFA.
Planned measures:
- Roof renovation
- Replacing the window hinges
- Installation of a photovoltaic system to cover the base load
- Examination of the façade: Renovation was not pursued for economic reasons.
The heating system will also be renewed. A central wood pellet system is planned for the new building, which will supply both buildings with heat in future. The background to this is the expiry of energy contracting, which makes it necessary to realign the heat supply.
Funding application for new building project Gescherweg III
An application for funding under the “Young Accomodation” program was submitted to the Accomodation Office for the new construction project on time in December 2024. Despite delays in coordination with the city, the application was submitted in 2024 in order to secure funding from 2025.
A photovoltaic system is also planned for the new building to ensure a sustainable basic supply of electricity.
Dormitory councils ensure a lively atmosphere
In many halls of residence, students volunteer as student council members. The Studentenforum-Heekweg e.V. is one of these councils. Its aim is to bring residents closer together.
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The Studentenforum-Heekweg e.V. hall of residence council currently consists of twelve members: 22-year-old Josef is one of them. He has been involved in the Heekweg hall of residence council since September 2023. “The great thing about the hall of residence council is that we can easily change things,” he explains. The hall of residence council plans parties, barbecues and games evenings. In the “Pömpel” bar, which is located in the basement of the residential complex, people laugh and celebrate together. The diverse activities are intended to bring the residents closer together. “We want to get people out of their rooms, so to speak,” explains the business informatics student. All activities are free of charge and are primarily aimed at Heekweg residents. However, other young adults from the neighborhood are also welcome to take part.
Support for students in everyday life
In addition to events, the hall of residence councils also have another important function: as representatives of the interests of the tenants, they are to initiate their ideas and suggestions for improvement with the Studierendenwerk. The council thus acts as an interface between the residents and the Studierendenwerk. In addition, the hall of residence council supports students in their everyday lives.
Apartment instead of kiosk
In 2014, the whole of Münster was under water due to heavy rainfall. The kiosk at Rudolf-Harbig-Weg 55-61 was not spared either. After the previous operator was unable to reopen, the Studierendenwerk started looking for a new operator. As this was unsuccessful, various concepts were developed internally to make the space usable again. Ultimately, the decision was made to convert the premises into urgently needed living space.
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Most of the walls could be retained
Due to other measures that tied up personnel resources, the construction project could only be implemented in summer 2024. Despite the change of use, most of the walls of the former kiosk were retained. New walls made it possible to separate the planned two shared apartments. The passageway between the apartments and the former kiosk storage area was bricked up. The bathroom posed a greater difficulty: As the previous drainage was not found in the appropriate places, the entire floor had to be raised. Overall, the rough installation was completed in 2024. New window fronts and doors were installed in line with the latest energy standards.
The new wash bar is currently being renovated alongside the new residential units. It is being created from an old storage room of the former kiosk. The room has been re-tiled and a platform built to make it easier to load and unload the machines. A total of five washing machines and three dryers are planned for use by students. In addition, a Studierendenwerk snack vending machine in the anteroom of the laundry bar will round off the offer.
Reliable relationships with contractors
Marion Nopto and Sebastian Becker, a clerk from the building management department who are supporting the project, said the biggest challenge was the availability of tradespeople. “It’s not easy to get the right workers at the right time. Overall, however, we benefit from the good and reliable relationships with our contractors.” Completion of the premises is scheduled for Easter 2025. The Student Accomodation department expects the four rooms to be let quickly due to the ongoing housing shortage in Münster.
