Stadtreparatur

Places of encounter beyond home and work, known as “third places,” are central spaces in urban life. They are where informal encounters and social interaction take place. At the same time, such places are coming under increasing pressure: public spaces are becoming more densely populated, places to spend time are being commercialized, and non-commercial meeting places are becoming increasingly rare. This makes it all the more important to highlight where such places exist in the city—and where they are lacking.

The format, City Repair—Discussion about Frankfurt's “Third Places,” makes this question the starting point for a public debate about Frankfurt's social spaces.

Two weeks before the event, a low-threshold participation station will be set up in the Central Library. Visitors can participate via interactive boards and contribute their perceptions of the city. On a large map of Frankfurt, they mark places where they feel welcome, linger longer, or where they feel something is missing. Additional boards invite them to describe their favorite places, name the qualities of good places to spend time, or formulate visions for new meeting places.

The perspectives gathered will form the basis for a public evening event on September 3, 2026, at which experts from various fields will discuss the significance of such places for the future of the city with the audience, drawing on the contributions made by citizens.

KSP Engel is an internationally active architectural firm with five locations in Germany and over 200 employees. We realize challenging new buildings and revitalization projects—always with a focus on sustainability and the highest planning standards. The Frankfurt Central Library, which we revitalized, is a cooperation partner and venue for the City Repair format—a discussion about Frankfurt's “third places.”