The Stadthalle Dillenburg was constructed following an architectural competition in 1968, based on a design by Rainer Schell, and opened in 1974. The elongated structure sits at the foot of the “Weinberg” hillside and opens toward the city, integrating sensitively into the terrain. The hall is built in boardmarked exposed concrete, articulated by sculptural elements such as outwardly visible round stair towers, flat concrete canopies, and plastically shaped volumes. The lower level’s raw concrete is contrasted by a dark anthracite cladding on the upper floor—emphasizing the horizontal stratification of the building. Inside, Schell continues his architectural staging with clarity and intention: from low to high, from dark to light. The main entrance on the valley side is deliberately low. The path through the building is illuminated by a circular skylight in the first stairwell, leading to a bright and spacious foyer with views of the old town and the Schlossberg hill. The main hall receives no daylight at floor level; instead, it is lit solely by side-mounted skylight strips. Schell again plays with the interplay of space and light. Upon entering, the space initially appears compact due to the gallery above, before revealing its full height and volume. A defining feature of the interior is its artistic furnishing: eight vividly colored, geometric wall tapestries—designed by Schell himself—were integrated as an essential part of the architectural concept.

Written by Tim von der Heyde

After its closure in 2016 and an initially planned demolition, the Stadthalle Dillenburg was preserved in 2022 following a successful citizens’ petition. A renovation has since been initiated and is currently in the planning phase. The building is still considered to be under threat because it is unclear whether the original design, including the brutalist features, will be preserved under the renovation concept. The association “Pro Stadthalle Dillenburg e.V.”, which emerged from the citizens’ initiative, supports the municipal committees in the renovation process with critical commitment and expertise (last updated on January 30, 2026).