Real estate developer and operator Eurofund Group is continuing to drive the development of Rhein-Ruhr Zentrum. As the next step, the Foodlounge will be modernized during the summer of 2026. Around one million euros will be invested in a comprehensive refurbishment that will give the area a new look and significantly enhance the visitor experience.
At the heart of the project is a holistic design concept that creates different seating areas, each with its own character. The goal is a clear structure with distinct seating islands that offer both spaces for retreat and areas for social interaction. Visually, the new Foodlounge will follow a natural, minimalist-modern style with a Scandinavian touch. The approximately 2,000-square-meter area will be complemented by a large number of plants, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
As part of the modernization, the Foodlounge will receive new furniture in a variety of formats—from chairs and benches providing seating for 385 guests to counter elements. In addition, flooring will be replaced, walls redesigned, existing features such as glass structures removed, and balustrades replaced. The restroom facilities will also be completely renovated.
Construction work will begin immediately and is scheduled to continue through September 2026. The Foodlounge will remain operational throughout the entire project. Areas will be modernized in phases so that visitors can continue to use the space. Dust- and noise-intensive work will be carried out largely outside regular operating hours.
The visual transformation will be accompanied by a significant expansion and diversification of the food offering through the leasing of the two restaurant units that are currently vacant. On the southern side of the Foodlounge, a well-known pizza and pasta restaurant chain and a burger operator with a strong social media presence are planned to move in. In addition, the two currently vacant food stalls on the northern side will also be leased to new tenants. This will increase the attractiveness of the offering, particularly during evening hours, creating further synergies with the existing and future entertainment offerings (Cinemaxx, Adventica, and others). Well-known brands such as KFC, Maredo, NORDSEE, and WonderWaffel are already part of the Foodlounge’s dining mix at Rhein-Ruhr Zentrum.
“By redesigning the food court at RRZ, we are creating a destination that goes far beyond its basic function. Today, dining areas are key traffic drivers and important social gathering places. Accordingly, we have very high standards when it comes to design, quality, and length of stay,” says Olaf Ley, CEO Retail Germany at Eurofund.
For the implementation, Eurofund is relying on experienced partners. The underlying design concept was developed by Marta Banus Architects from Madrid, while the execution concept was created by Hüttenes Architekten from Mülheim an der Ruhr. The project manager is Cumming Group. FSL Ladenbau from Westerstede is responsible for construction planning and project execution.
“We are excited to be involved in this special project. The challenge lies in combining ongoing operations with a high-quality implementation that is carefully planned and precisely timed,” says Jan-Hendrik Vlijt of FSL Ladenbau.
In addition, the renovation will follow a resource-conscious approach. Large parts of the existing basic structure will be retained, allowing existing materials to continue to be used. In particular, movable elements will be selectively renewed and supplemented.
With the modernization of the food court, Eurofund Group is making another statement in support of the continuous enhancement of Rhein-Ruhr Zentrum and underlining the importance of food and beverage offerings as an integral part of modern retail real estate.
(dp)
