Four million euros for Robotron canteen: cultural center becomes reality!

Four million euros for Robotron canteen: cultural center becomes reality!

In exciting times for the Robotron canteen in Dresden, there is reason to be happy! The federal government has approved funding of an impressive four million euros for the renovation of the architectural monument of Eastern Modernism. This project, which is funded as part of the “National Urban Development Projects” program, is intended to transform the former VEB Robotron canteen into a lively international cultural and meeting place. Weekly Courier reports that the OSTRALE art biennale will find a permanent home there, while the Kunsthaus Dresden would like to use the new premises all year round.

What exactly is planned? Extensive measures are planned as part of the renovation. This includes repairing the building shell, comprehensive roof renovation, repairing structural damage and installing modern building technology for energy, water and heating. The whole thing will also be preceded by a planning competition to ensure that the project meets the high standards. The total costs for the renovation amount to around 6.1 million euros, which consists of four million euros in federal funds, a generous donation of 1.5 million euros from the Arnhold family and other own funds from the state capital Dresden. The city of Dresden provides information that construction is scheduled to begin at the end of 2027 and the work should be completed by the end of 2028 at the latest.

Cultural significance and historical background

The Robotron canteen has an eventful history. It was built between 1969 and 1972 and impresses with its pavilion-like character with eye-catching turquoise-blue ceramic tiles on the facade facing Lingnerallee. The interiors offer space for two dining rooms with 800 seats as well as a kitchen and food servery, equipped with artistically designed molded stone walls by sculptor Eberhard Wolf. The “Moki ceiling” made of plaster and the terrazzo floor are also striking features of the building to this day. The local press emphasizes that the OSTRALE Biennale has found a permanent place in this unique location since its establishment.

The tireless efforts of initiatives from the city society and the cultural and creative industries have made a significant contribution to ensuring that this building, which was threatened with demolition for a long time, was placed under protection. This crucial measure now leads to the renovation and cultural use of the Robotron canteen.

Outlook and opportunities for the future

After the Robotron canteen remains accessible until the construction phase, art and culture lovers can look forward to a diverse program. The OSTRALE Biennale is currently taking place from June 7th to October 5th, 2025 in the Robotron canteen, and offers art-loving visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of contemporary art on Thursdays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The city affirms, that future use will include a wide range of events, which could give Dresden's cultural life a new boost.

For anyone who would like to find out more about the possibilities for financing and support in the cultural sector, take a look at resources such as Creative Association to. The future of the Robotron-Kantine art and culture location certainly looks promising.