An unusual sight at Konstablerwache: Where commuters and shoppers usually bustle about in the city centre, on Fridays from 2 p.m. onwards, children's laughter and colourful play equipment dominate the scene. Until 26 September, the playmobile of the Riederwald Adventure Playground Association will be making regular stops there – following an idea that goes far beyond mere leisure entertainment.
The campaign is part of a strategy by Frankfurt's city marketing department, which no longer wants the city centre to be seen merely as a functional space. The declared aim is to turn it into a place of emotional attachment and lived urbanity – a living space that also offers families with children a permanent address. The Konstablerwache is thus becoming the stage for an invigorating intervention in public space. "The city centre is more than just a place of consumption," says Stephanie Wüst, head of the city's economic affairs department. "It is a space where people work, shop and live – and increasingly also one where families with small children should spend their free time." This is a concern that has emerged from the latest results of the "Vitale Innenstädte 2024" (Vibrant City Centres 2024) study. Three thousand people in Frankfurt and the surrounding area were surveyed – many said they wanted more quality experiences beyond shopping and dining.
The playmobile offer is primarily aimed at primary school children and, with a bouncy castle, climbing tower, roller slide and creative stations, offers an accessible and attractive leisure activity in the middle of everyday urban life. The programme is accompanied by snacks and refreshments that invite visitors to linger.
For Eduard Singer, head of the city marketing department, the project is a model case for forward-looking urban development: "When we talk about vibrant city centres, we don't just mean footfall figures, but also quality of stay, participation and encounters. Family-friendly offerings such as this are a building block for that." Michael Paris, chairman of the Riederwald Adventure Playground Association, also sees the playmobile as more than just a leisure activity: "For over 40 years, we have been getting children moving with the playmobile – both literally and figuratively. It is a place where community is created, generations are connected and urban space can be experienced in a new way that is suitable for children."
With the "Bespielbare Konstablerwache", Frankfurt is sending a clear signal for a change of perspective in inner-city design. What appears colourful and temporary today should become part of a lasting understanding of urban quality of life in the future. Parents and children alike have already accepted the invitation to "Family Time".
