A house steeped in history, now filled with new life

A small architectural gem has been created in Wiesbaden-Biebrich—and, above all, a place where children can grow, play, learn, and feel safe. The new EVIM daycare center, “Haus der Kinder Rheingaustraße,” was officially opened today with a festive inauguration ceremony. The guests agreed: What has been created here is far more than a successful blend of old and new. It is a building full of life and community.

Located in the immediate vicinity of the Rhine and the castle park, the facility in Wiesbaden’s most populous district offers additional childcare spots: a total of 50—including 40 spots in the preschool program and ten nursery spots. This is a significant contribution to local families, as Wiesbaden’s Director of Social Affairs, Dr. Patricia Becher, emphasized. The state capital is well-positioned with many dedicated providers, and EVIM plays an important role as a reliable partner. She particularly highlighted that inclusion is a natural part of EVIM’s culture. That is exemplary. Biebrich’s mayor, Markus Michel, was also impressed: “Every euro is well spent here.” Places of encounter like this are important for the neighborhood and deserve support. He is always open to suggestions and feedback. He is particularly pleased that a Biebrich-based company helped shape the project. 

Old and new buildings with special charm

Those who remember the building from earlier times are witnessing a remarkable transformation today. With great sensitivity, the historic structure was preserved and seamlessly integrated with a modern new building. Bright rooms, large windows, carefully planned sightlines, and high-quality materials create an atmosphere that is both open and serene. Thoughtful details and a clean design ensure that functionality and a sense of well-being come together in a special way.

The spatial design ideally supports the daycare center’s Montessori educational concept. “The setup of the group rooms allows each group to work largely independently,” explains facility director Mara Evermann. Each group room has its own small children’s kitchen with a refrigerator and dishwasher. Here, children chop, cook, and experiment together—everyday activities that foster independence and build community. The nursery area in the lovingly renovated historic building exudes a special charm. Sanded-down historic floorboards, arched doorways, and preserved elements such as the checkerboard tiles in the entrance area or the delicate wrought-iron stair railing still tell the story of the building today.

Places of security and connection

For Carlos Müller, Managing Director of EVIM gGmbH in the Education Division, the inauguration was also a personal matter close to his heart. As a “Biebrich boy,” he still feels a close connection to the neighborhood. He is particularly moved by the connection between old and new—not only architecturally, but also between generations: The proximity to the EVIM senior living facilities creates opportunities for encounters between young and old.

“These spaces have become a reliable and warm-hearted place,” said Carlos Müller. A place where children make friends, find comfort, and are encouraged to try new things. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who made the project possible—the planners and construction managers, the staff, the participating committees, the City of Wiesbaden, and all those who have supported and accompanied the project over a long period of time. He and Commercial Director Jörg Wiegand praised the excellent collaboration among all involved—from the EVIM team to the partners at BAI Planung GmbH & Co. KG. The existing building was extensively renovated and energy-efficiently modernized. Both the old and new buildings are equipped with heat pump-based underfloor heating and operate fossil-fuel- and CO₂-free. A photovoltaic system is planned for the roof of the new building. The rather challenging construction task was excellently solved through joint efforts. 

The real stars of the day had already won over the new daycare center long ago: the children. They delighted the guests with a short performance. Afterward, there was still time for conversations and socializing in the lovingly designed courtyard, accompanied by culinary delights from the EVIM service kitchen. (hk)