From the living experiment to decay: the Habiflex in Dorsten in view

From the living experiment to decay: the Habiflex in Dorsten in view

The Habiflex: A historic ruin and the return of nature
How the "Lost Place" Dorsten reflects

Stefan Diebäcker
Editor-in-chief

16.08.2024 6:00 p.m.

The Habiflex in Dorsten is more than just an abandoned place; It is a symbol of past experimental living and the unstoppable return of nature. The building on Jägerstraße has been falling for several years, while the flora is gradually recovering the property.

The story of the Habiflex

The Habiflex was originally designed as part of a living experiment that was supposed to promote innovative concepts of life. But this idea has fallen behind over the years. Today the building is empty and remind you of past ambitions. The facade is covered by ivy and other plants that impressively illustrate the decay of the building.

A withdrawal of nature

It is fascinating to observe how nature is slowly getting back the Habiflex. More and more plant species sprout through cracks in the walls and cover the property. This change not only has aesthetic, but also ecological importance, since it shows how the environment adapts and develops in unused areas, while at the same time the questions about the future use of such places arise.

A riz for urban development

The condition of the Habiflex raises important questions about urban development in Dorsten. How can the city deal with such “Lost Places” that once promised hope of innovative living, but today only as relics of past days? The fate of the Habiflex could be an example of similar structures in the region and lead to discussion about sustainable living concepts.

The meaning for the community

For the residents of Dorstens, the Habiflex represents a fascinating, but also anxious symbol. While some admire the return of nature, others find the structure abandoned as a loss of colonial living dreams. There is hope that the city and local initiatives will find ways to integrate the Habiflex back to the community, be it through renovation or creative conversions.

In summary, it can be said that the Habiflex is not only a "Lost Place" in Dorsten, but also offers a platform for important discussions about urban development, natural design and our relationship with unused rooms. While nature is recovering the Habiflex, we as a society are also required to think about our ideas of living and living space.