This is what "Loom" shall look like after the extensive modernization.
Source: ECE Projektmanagement G.m.b.H. & Co. KG
In the last week the city of Bielefeld has granted approval for the construction of a new shopping center in the downtown area. As of early October, the old "City Passage" will be demolished, and gives way for the new project "Loom" by center operator ECE.
Like many other current projects the construction of the "Loom" means no new development of a site but rather a modernization to meet today's customers requirements. The old "City Passage" will therefore be partly demolished, the remaining parts then extensively modernized, redesigned and expanded.
Focus on fashion
After its completion the "Loom" will provide a modern mix of brands and products, with a particularly high number of tenants from the fashion sector. But not only big brands will move into the new center, many local retailers have already expressed an interest. Some of the current tenants of the old "City Passage" will also remain on site and open new salesrooms in the "Loom".
Connection between center and city with gastronomic offers
The food court reflects the industrial history of the site where Bielefeld's first sewing machine factory was located.
Source: ECE Projektmanagement G.m.b.H. & Co. KG
Also in Bielefeld, ECE puts an emphasis on providing diverse dining options, making the new center an attractive place not only for shopping but also making customers feel at home and thus reaching longer stays in the center. The food court on the second floor with its approximately 10 gastronomic outlets is set to wake the interest of visitors with an unusual "vintage look" after completion. Industrial surfaces and tables with prints and patterns shall reflect the history of the site where Bielefeld’s first sewing machine factory was located. The gastronomic offers will continue on the ground floor with additional outdoor space in the pedestrian zone and longer opening times, thus building a link between center and city.
Opening of the new center in 2017
After the reconstruction works which start in January 2016 are completed, the opening of the modernized center is then planned in fall 2017. "We are very pleased with the Loom. The shopping center will be a focal point for the city", says Dr. Sandra Harms, Project Manager at ECE.
Further information is available on the project website www.loom-bielefeld.de.
Author: Daniel Stöter, iXtenso.com
