NINO-Hochbau

NINO-Hochbau, the crown jewel of Nordhorn, Niedersachsen, stands as a testament to the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural innovation. This impressive structure, once the epicenter of the bustling textile industry, now serves as a vibrant hub for business and culture. Its transformation from a textile powerhouse to a modern economic and cultural center is a story of resilience and reinvention.

The Architectural Marvel

Designed by the renowned Stuttgart architect Philipp Jakob Manz, NINO-Hochbau was constructed in 1928/29 for the company Niehues & Dütting, later known as NINO. This monumental building, with its clean lines and expansive window bands, reflects the ambitious high-rise projects of the 1920s. The structure is a striking example of industrial architecture, characterized by its cubic form and flat roofs. It’s no wonder that architectural historians laud it as a “jewel of industrial architecture.”

The building’s grandeur is further enhanced by its towering staircase at the northeast corner, which rises over 40 meters. This tower not only serves a functional purpose but also adds to the building’s imposing silhouette. Originally, the NINO-Hochbau was designed to be expanded southward if needed, showcasing the foresight of its creators.

A Journey Through Time

NINO-Hochbau’s story is intricately tied to the rise and fall of Nordhorn’s textile industry. During its heyday, the building housed state-of-the-art spinning machines capable of handling 50,000 spindles. By 1929, the company had grown to become Germany’s largest cotton spinning mill, employing thousands, including many from neighboring Netherlands. The 1950s and 60s marked another golden era with the success of a water-repellent and breathable coat fabric, further solidifying its status in the textile world.

However, the global shifts in the textile market during the 1980s and a failed restructuring plan led to the company’s bankruptcy in 1994. The once-thriving factory stood silent, a relic of a bygone era, until visionary planners saw potential in its sturdy walls.

The Renaissance of NINO-Hochbau

In the early 2000s, a group of local investors, along with the city of Nordhorn, embarked on an ambitious project to revitalize the NINO-Hochbau. The transformation, guided by the design of the Münster-based architecture firm Kresing & Lindschulte, was completed between 2008 and 2010. With a budget of approximately 29 million euros, the building was reborn as a “Competence Center for Business,” while preserving its historical façade.

Today, NINO-Hochbau boasts over 10,000 square meters of usable space. It houses a variety of offices, a conference hall, seminar rooms, and a city museum gallery. The building’s interior is a blend of modern functionality and historical charm, featuring a glass-covered atrium that floods the space with natural light.

Exploring NINO-Hochbau

Visitors to NINO-Hochbau can explore a range of attractions within its walls. The Nordhorn City Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial past, while the conference and seminar facilities make it a bustling hub for business and innovation. The building’s preservation as a historical monument ensures that its architectural beauty can be appreciated by generations to come.

For those interested in architecture, NINO-Hochbau is a must-see. Its unique blend of functional design and aesthetic appeal makes it a standout example of early 20th-century industrial architecture. The building’s transformation from a textile factory to a modern business center is a testament to the power of adaptive reuse in preserving cultural heritage.

A Symbol of Transformation

NINO-Hochbau is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of Nordhorn’s ability to adapt and thrive in the face of change. Its history reflects the city’s industrial roots and its ongoing evolution into a center of commerce and culture. As you walk through its halls, you can feel the echoes of the past intertwined with the vibrant energy of the present.

In conclusion, a visit to NINO-Hochbau offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of industrial history that has been skillfully integrated into the modern landscape. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about Nordhorn’s past, NINO-Hochbau is an unmissable destination that showcases the enduring spirit of innovation and resilience.