WHY DÜSSELDORF – STEFANIE LÜTTEKE
From the northern Ruhr region via the United States, to Aachen, Lisbon, Helsinki and Berlin, and back to the Rhineland: Stefanie Lütteke has lived in many different places, including while studying architecture and construction and property management. This has given her a unique perspective on urban spaces. Since 2008, she has been applying her expertise at the international consultancy firm Drees & Sommer in Düsseldorf as well. She is currently a partner responsible for the NRW region.
What makes Düsseldorf special to you?
For me, Düsseldorf combines an international flair with a pleasant compactness. You frequently bump into people again, much is within walking distance, and networks function quickly and directly. Added to this is the Rhineland mentality – a blend of professionalism and ease that makes the city very accessible.
Düsseldorf in three words
Cosmopolitan. Forward-looking. Charming.
Düsseldorf is a good location for the property sector because …
… economic strength, talent and a drive to shape the future all converge here. Düsseldorf is one of Germany’s leading economic and service centres and one of the top five office locations, home to many companies, including international ones. As the state capital, the public sector also plays a particularly significant role as a client. Added to this is a strong higher education landscape and a remarkable concentration of project developers. This mix makes the city particularly dynamic for our industry.
Düsseldorf is exciting from an urban planning perspective because …
… the city began reinventing itself very early on. Projects such as the Rhine Bank Tunnel, the transformation of the Media Harbour from an industrial port, and later the redesign of the city centre with the Kö-Bogen demonstrate the city’s consistent approach to urban development. Urban projects such as Raumwerk D and the new opera house continue along this path today. I can hardly think of another German city that approaches its urban development with such courage and a long-term vision.
Here in Düsseldorf, I feel in happy …
… when the sun is shining on the Rhine. Then the city almost feels like a holiday – whether on a terrace in the Medienhafen or in a beer garden on the Kaiserswerther Ufer. The excellent and diverse international restaurant scene also puts me in a good mood. And as a very organised person, I also appreciate that so much works well here in Düsseldorf, both in politics and in business.
Here in Düsseldorf, I find inspiration …
… above all through interacting with people. Whether that’s in our office, at networking events, or simply out and about in the city. In Düsseldorf, I often meet people who are passionate about making a difference. For me, inspiration rarely comes from a quiet corner, but rather from where ideas come together. •
Text: Tom Corrinth
Pictures: Klaudia Taday
