Once the city's landmark and gathering heart – left neglected for decades and falling into disrepair – Willich's market square surrounding the imposing St. Katharina Church underwent a transformation process in 2012. The goal was ambitious: create a vibrant, entirely car-free public meeting space that would breathe new life into the urban landscape. Among four competing design firms, Kraft.Raum. from Krefeld won the competition after an intensive two-week workshop, engaging directly with residents in a vacant storefront. The result: a thoughtfully reimagined plaza that honors both commercial and social needs through restrained, high-quality design. The refined approach balances retail and outdoor dining requirements with the diverse aspirations of the community.

The design creates a clear spatial hierarchy between the church and surrounding commercial buildings, distinguishing areas for quiet reflection, lingering, and activity. Inlaid like marquetry into a unified natural stone base, these zones preserve the square's visual continuity while connecting seamlessly to surrounding pathways. Every element—from furnishings to materials—was chosen to cultivate an inviting, distinctive atmosphere steeped in local identity. The vision embraces inclusive access, multigenerational activities, and flexible event hosting for weekly markets, festivals, and beyond. The original globe arborvitae trees were removed to unveil the historic church façade, replaced by honey locust trees that will offer respite during hot summers. Portuguese granite slabs, installed via Metten's innovative "Ecostone System," span the entire square. These modular plates, mounted on rails, resist wear and minimize maintenance demands over time. The plaza's heart serves as a fully adaptable stage for markets and city events. A striking integrated fountain feature anchors the southern end—a playful destination where water jets and mist emerge at varying heights from the pavement, captivating children while remaining visible from an adjoining bench. Along the church wall, a generous 12-meter table with generous seating creates an open stage for connection: picnics, spontaneous conversations, or simply lingering with a mobile phone (free WiFi included). In reclaiming its role as the city's vibrant public living room, the market square has become what it was always meant to be.

www.kraft-raum.com

Photography Credits:

Nikolai Benner
www.nikolaibenner.de

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 04|20)