In everyday university life, concentration, exchange and interaction are central components of learning and working together. At the same time, many members of the university community are increasingly seeking a place that deliberately provides a counterbalance to the often hectic daily routine – a space that offers tranquillity, allows for retreat and supports personal reflection. Against this backdrop, a space for quiet reflection in room 4.044 is currently being created at HCU.
In the future, this space will provide all members of the university community with a place that can be used for slowing down, contemplation, meditation and prayer. The space is open to a variety of personal needs and is intended to offer a safe environment to people regardless of their religious affiliation, worldview or individual way of life.
The creation of this space is directly linked to the core values of our HCU. Our university sees itself as a place where mutual respect, appreciation, diversity in practice and equal opportunities form the cornerstones of our shared community. The quiet room is intended to reflect this ethos.
To enable work on the project to begin, the post boxes and printers previously located in the relevant area have been moved from the former Room 4.044. This means that the physical conditions are now in place to carry out the structural and design work on the room.
Further steps towards fitting out the room will take place in the coming weeks. The aim is to create an environment that is functional, understated and yet inviting, and which meets the various requirements of such a space.
The Quiet Room will complement our university’s existing facilities. Further information regarding its final completion, fittings and future use will be announced in due course.
How do I use the room for myself?
When I enter the Room of Silence, I leave the daily routine of university life behind me for a moment. Before the door, I take off my shoes and leave my jacket and larger personal items in the designated cloakroom. This is how my time in a quiet and orderly environment begins.
Inside the room, I find a spot where I can find peace for a few minutes – to sit, reflect, meditate, pray or simply to be still for a moment. I use the room for myself alone and ensure that others can also enjoy this time undisturbed.
Food and drink are kept outside the room so that the space remains clean and pleasant for everyone to use.
When I leave the room, I take everything I brought with me, leave my spot tidy and exit the room quietly, so that the next person also finds the same open and well-maintained space.
Through my behaviour, I help ensure that the Room of Silence remains a reliable place of peace and retreat for all members of the university community.
Refreshed, I return to my daily routine at a slower pace.
Terms of Use
The Room of Silence is subject to the Terms of Use and, underpinning these, the House Rules of HafenCity Universität Hamburg.
