Vacancies are becoming an increasing challenge for many city centers. This trend is also evident in Mainz, even though the local vacancy rate is currently quite low at 6.5%. Vacant storefronts make streets appear less lively and negatively impact the quality of life and perception of the city center. To actively counter this trend, the Department of Economic Affairs and the Economic Development Agency of the state capital of Mainz, in collaboration with the Alma agency and illustrator Sophie Hertrich, have developed a new concept for designing the storefronts of vacant commercial spaces. The goal is not simply to let vacant spaces appear visibly “empty,” but to actively integrate them into the cityscape and give them a positive look. 

“With these designed storefronts, we are making vacant spaces a positive part of the cityscape again and aim to visually enhance them and make the shopping streets appear more lively,” explains Manuela Matz, Head of the Economic Affairs Department. 

At the heart of the design concept is a detailed illustration in the style of a hidden-object picture, inviting viewers to discover new details time and again. The decals use a milky, translucent film as a base, complemented by colorful accents and graphic elements. This offers the advantage that daylight can still enter the storefronts. The interiors also remain visible for viewings. 

“For the motifs, we deliberately draw on typical elements of Mainz that define its identity: our cathedral, St. Stephan, the Rhine, the Fastnachtsbrunnen, the Mainz Ferris wheel, wine as part of the regional culture, as well as scenes of urban life and public transportation. When making our selection, an emotional appeal and a sense of local identity were important to us. The window wraps are not only meant to beautify but also to convey a sense of connection,” says Matz. The “hidden object” principle offers high flexibility and adaptability and is suitable for any storefront size. It also allows owners to select individual image sections.

In addition, the motifs include a link to the “LeAn” vacancy and business attraction platform of the state capital Mainz. It specifically brings together property owners and those interested in starting a business, facilitating the placement of commercial spaces. This supports business establishment and reduces long-term vacancies.

A collaborative funding model is being used. In addition to a contribution from the property owners, there are grants from the Economic Development Agency and, where applicable, participation from other partners. The goal is to keep the entry barrier low in order to include as many vacant properties as possible. 

“The redesigned storefronts tell stories and greatly enhance the quality of the public space. Property owners who would like to join the project can contact the Department of Economic Affairs or the Economic Development Agency at any time,” say Manuela Matz, Head of the Department of Economic Affairs, and Teresa Klug, Head of the Economic Development Agency.

Further information about the project, the LeAn platform, and the support services offered by the Economic Development Agency can be found on the Mainz Economic Development Agency website at https://mainz.de/angebote-entdecken/wirtschaft/wirtschaft.