Solar kindergarten

The listed Esche-Stift next to the CFC stadium in Chemnitz was converted into a modern solar daycare center after years of vacancy. Eugen Moritz Otto Esche, once the owner of one of the largest hosiery factories in Germany, donated 300,000 marks for workers' housing, but his plans were never fully implemented. After being used as a retirement home until 1970, the building fell into disrepair. Renovation began in 2018, taking into account the preservation order and energy-efficient construction methods. The "Naturkinderhaus Esche" daycare center for 30 children opened on 1 September 2020, with a planned expansion to 100 places by spring 2021. A 120 m² solar thermal system covers a third of the energy requirements. Parts of the building and the top floor are offered as commercial space for offices and doctors' surgeries. The revitalized complex contributes to sustainable building culture and supports Chemnitz's bid to become European Capital of Culture 2025.