Preserving history

Historical background and development of the Oxford Quarter

The Oxford Quarter is being built on the site of the former anti-aircraft artillery barracks in Münster as a sustainable residential and living space. In 1945, the British Army took over the barracks and subsequently expanded them into the Oxford Barracks by 2013, a city within a city with its own kindergartens, playgrounds, a school and various pubs. Even before the British withdrew in 2013, a conversion agreement was signed in 2012 by the city of Münster and the Federal Agency for Real Estate Tasks.

Neighbourhood development under the motto "preserve. create. experience."

Since 2018, neighbourhood development has been underway under the motto ‘preserve. create. experience.’ based on designs by Berlin architect Francis Kéré, in collaboration with Prof. Schultz-Granberg. The aim is to preserve history by maintaining the historically grown building fabric, old tree population and existing path structures. Building on this, new, future-oriented living spaces are being created that form a symbiosis with the existing structures, both architecturally and in terms of urban planning. Diverse meeting places are being created, while at the same time soil sealing can be reduced. A variety of green spaces contribute to the quality of life.

Open-plan furniture as a combination of historical and modern elements

The connection between history and modernity is also evident in the outdoor furniture. The ‘Oxford’ elements, specially designed by the City of Münster's Department of Green Spaces, Environment and Sustainability and constructed by Thieme, respond in their design to the existing evidence of military use – rusty metal structures and robust constructions made of U-profiles. The functional and minimalist design of the benches invites people to linger. The robust frame made of 15 mm thick hot-dip galvanised steel ensures long-term durability.

Sustainability and design features of the furnishings

In the same way, it should be possible to maintain the furniture in an economical and sustainable manner. For example, the recessed metal surface under the planks prevents excessive soiling and also improves the structural protection of the wood. The use of wood from ecological forestry for the seat cushions emphasises durability and sustainability. The furnishings are complemented by seating/reclining platforms. The clear, sober design language is also embodied here by a frame made of hot-dip galvanised steel profiles. Continuity is also evident in the use of the same wood as for the bench. The platforms in the recreational sports area were dimensioned to accommodate small teams.
The powder coating is a special feature of the elements in the Oxford Quarter. To create the impression of rusty steel but avoid staining clothing, a coating consisting of two different shades of iron mica brown was designed. This created the unmistakable impression of Corten steel while avoiding the disadvantages of the material.