The Prüfening campus of OTH Regensburg is gradually developing into a modern and identity-forming place of learning and work. Following numerous upgrades in recent months, further renovation work is now planned: as part of a so-called ‘minor construction project’, parts of the façade and individual roof areas of the listed building on Prüfeninger Straße will be repaired. The aim is to improve the quality of life and study conditions at the location in the long term and to preserve the historic ensemble for the future.
An important contribution to accessibility was already made in spring 2025 with the commissioning of a new external lift. Three newly created disabled parking spaces have also been added in front of the external lift. In addition, a ‘Studiloft’ has been opened as a learning space with team work areas and screened workstations, modelled on the student house on the main campus. Here, students were not only able to contribute their ideas and wishes in advance, but also actively participate in the design. The colour scheme of the furniture is adapted to the interior design of the building complex, which was built in the 1950s. Another component of the modern teaching and learning infrastructure is the new scale-up room, which enables collaborative work with learning islands and its own technical equipment.
Historic building fabric, forward-looking concept
‘We want to further develop the Prüfening location as a lively learning and working space, in harmony with its historic building fabric and with the involvement of our students,’ says Chancellor Peter Endres. ‘The upcoming façade and roof renovation is a further step towards ensuring the long-term attractiveness and usability of the building.’
Particularly noteworthy is the close integration of science and administration: OTH Regensburg is taking on the role of building owner for the project – a first, as Vice-Chancellor Utto Spielbauer emphasises. At the same time, research and teaching are being actively involved. As part of a teaching and research project by the Faculty of Architecture, the building's architectural history, structural and climatic analysis, as well as design and renovation concepts, are being developed. On 1 November, a new project employee will also start work to provide planning and organisational support for the energy-efficient roof and façade renovation.
Step by step towards a modern place of learning and work
Elke Würth, deputy head of the Buildings and Technology Department at OTH Regensburg, is responsible for the further development of the site: ‘The building in Prüfening is a special place with its own atmosphere. With each measure, we are creating more comfort, more safety and an environment in which learning and working are a pleasure. However, we still have major tasks to tackle in terms of infrastructure, which we intend to address gradually.’ Despite the restrictive requirements of monument protection, the Studiloft offers an open and cosy atmosphere for teaching, learning and spending time.
‘For us, the project is a successful example of how monument protection, sustainability and university development can go hand in hand,’ emphasises Gerhard Haslbeck, Head of University Construction at the Regensburg State Building Authority. ‘Together with OTH Regensburg, we are succeeding in preserving historical substance while at the same time implementing modern requirements for energy efficiency and user comfort.’
The students are also enthusiastic about the changes, especially the Studiloft: Judith Gabriel and Lukas Läpple from the student council are convinced of the high quality of the modern ambience.
With the ongoing development of the Prüfening site, OTH Regensburg is implementing the goal formulated in the 2023 University Development Plan to design its campus areas as living spaces – with excellent study conditions, a high quality of life and responsible handling of existing buildings and history.
