Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) is initiating the transformation of the former food court into the 'Wald Terrassen' at Westfield Ruhr Park in Bochum. This project aims to establish a modern open-air gastronomy and experience destination that appeals to both the local community and visitors from further afield. Across a total area of approximately 6,200 square metres, including 850 square metres of outdoor terraces, an expanded offering with twelve rental units will be realised. The concept envisions ten food and beverage outlets and two complementary retail spaces, nine of which are already pre-let.
The 'Wald Terrassen' will be complemented by spacious lounge areas, a centrally located children's play area, and an event space for cultural formats, entertainment, promotions, and brand events. The design concept is nature-oriented and characterised by striking timber construction and numerous green spaces. With this transformation, URW intends to enhance culinary diversity, extend dwell time, and improve the quality of stay. This development strengthens the experiential character of Westfield Ruhr Park and solidifies its positioning as a supra-regional shopping and leisure destination. The company thus continues the strategic further development of the centre, which was already marked by the rebranding to Westfield in autumn 2024 and significant leasing successes with brands such as Adidas, Bershka, and Sephora.
For the realisation of the comprehensive modernisation project, the area of the former food court has already been closed. Demolition and construction work began at the end of September. The opening of the 'Wald Terrassen' is scheduled for summer 2028. The future gastronomic hotspot will encompass a wide spectrum of concepts, from established food and beverage operators to new food and beverage offerings, complemented by attractive outdoor areas. Future tenants include, among others, ALEX, 60 Seconds to Napoli, Burgermeister, and Frittenwerk, which will introduce location-specific restaurant concepts. The existing Eiscafé Venezia will continue in the 'Wald Terrassen' on an enlarged area with its own terrace. Additionally, Thalia and Snipes will relocate within the centre, occupying new, spacious units within the 'Wald Terrassen' area.
Strategic Integration and Sustainability Concept
The central location of the future 'Wald Terrassen' between the so-called 'Fashionloop', which houses numerous fashion brands, and the leisure and entertainment hub with UCI Kinowelt and the Boda Borg concept, creates a more open and attractive connection within the centre and enhances visitor flows. The mix of gastronomy, retail, and leisure offerings is designed to generate a diverse overall experience.
Paul Douay, Managing Director, Asset Management, Central Europe, emphasised that the 'Wald Terrassen' represent a milestone project that will further strengthen the location as a destination for gastronomy, experiences, and leisure, and significantly enhance the quality of stay for visitors. He expressed satisfaction with the already high occupancy rate and the diversity of the concepts secured. Dr. Markus Bradtke, City Planning Officer for the City of Bochum, stressed that this investment by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield is a significant signal for the attractiveness of Westfield Ruhr Park and the entire Bochum location.
Architecture and Ecological Standards
Architecturally, the 'Wald Terrassen' integrate their natural surroundings through a nature-inspired, open design concept. Terraces, extensive green spaces, and an open architecture contribute to a high atmospheric quality and encourage longer dwell times. Characteristic is the resource-efficient timber construction. The southern buildings feature facades up to six metres high, which provide space for modern store concepts for the tenants. The design concept was developed by Saguez & Partners from Paris, while RKW Architektur + from Düsseldorf is responsible for the detailed planning and construction management.
Sustainability is an integral part of the project. Wood is used as a key building material. Green roofs and facades, as well as climate-resilient vegetation, create additional green spaces and an improved microclimate. Rainwater is used resource-efficiently, and photovoltaic systems on the roofs support the generation of renewable energy. The project aims for BREEAM Excellent certification, which underlines the high standards for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and user comfort. With approximately 118,600 square metres of retail space and over 150 stores, Westfield Ruhr Park in Bochum is one of Germany's largest shopping and leisure destinations, whose appeal was further strengthened by the new brand name Westfield Ruhr Park in autumn 2024.
