“What if buildings could inspire creativity?” That is exactly what the Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna achieves. Right here on Liebstädter Straße 29 in Dresden, stands the Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna. It is also known as Schieferburg. This unique building is more than just a youth center. It’s a work of art and a space for imagination.
The Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna is a project for open child and youth work. The Stadtjugendring Dresden e. V. operates this facility. Weise & Treuner, two architects from Dresden, designed the building. They completed it in 1996. The location was once a construction waste dump. The architects embraced organic building principles. They created a space that feels like a fairy tale.
As you approach the Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna, notice the unconventional shapes. You won’t find many right angles here. Natural materials dominate the construction. Look for wood, loam, clay tiles, and slate. These elements create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The design draws inspiration from famous artists. You can see influences from Friedensreich Hundertwasser. His playful details and irregular floors are evident. The Jugendstil forms and ceramic mosaics remind us of Antoni Gaudí. There are even nods to Bruno Taut’s Worpsweder Käseglocke.
Inside the Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna, a central Kuppelhalle dominates the structure. Arend Zwicker, an artist from Dresden, created a light installation here. It features a steel construction and a zinc sheet body. The surface has many etched openings. A bright light projects these shapes onto the cupola wall. This creates a dynamic display of light and shadow. The light installation rotates slowly and changes height.
The Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna includes several spaces. These include a play area, a café, and a dance house. There is also a household hall, a creative space, and a workshop area. Outside, an earthen wall surrounds the complex. This provides both protection and space for outdoor activities.
The architects wanted to create something special. They succeeded in making a place that encourages creativity. The Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna is a significant building. It claims its own architectural style of uniqueness. It fulfills this claim with a near poetic gesture.
The Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna celebrated its 20th birthday in 2016. The staff developed a bonus point system. This system rewards children for their activities. They can earn points by helping in the café or participating in workshops. They can also earn points by making themselves useful in the Schieferburg’s outdoor area. These points can be redeemed for prizes.
The Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna is more than just a building. It’s a space where children can play, dream, and be creative. It’s a space where young people are supported in all their complex creativity. The fairytale architecture provides an ideal setting. The Kinder- und Jugendhaus Gruna stands as a testament to the power of imagination and the importance of creating spaces that inspire.