Railroad site rethought - old tracks, new life
The “Bahngelände neu gedacht” project (Railroad site rethought) transforms the old infrastructure of Stuttgart's main railway station into a sustainable city park that combines history and modernity through green spaces, watercourses, communal areas and flexible spaces.
Author: Youjin Kim, Germany
Imagine a place where past and future merge harmoniously. The “Bahngelände neu gedacht” project transforms the existing infrastructure of Stuttgart's main railway station into a vibrant, sustainable city park. The project not only uses the existing structures, but also integrates new components that give the park a modern flair. This combination creates an organic space in which history and innovation coexist.
Main features:
- Green spaces and water elements: Lush green spaces and artificial watercourses using old railroad tracks, with the tracks remaining visible underwater.
- Historical integration: Converted railroad carriages as cafés and exhibition spaces as well as uses of existing components (e.g. display panels).
- Sustainability: Solar panels, rainwater harvesting, smart lighting and Wi-Fi zones.
- Thematic zones: Areas for sport, recreation, art and education.
- Communal areas: Studios, cafés and flexible spaces encourage social interaction and community and cater to the needs of different target groups.
- Accessibility: open architecture, inviting design, low-threshold and barrier-free access in all seasons, day and night.
Architecture and design:
The new façade is inspired by the historic station architecture and at the same time creates an urban edge that represents modern Stuttgart. This façade is open in all directions and symbolizes a building that is accessible to everyone. This building functions as an urban hub and connects the new Rosenstein quarter with the architectural context of the existing station. It serves as a link between the past and the future of the city by combining historical elements with modern design principles, ensuring seamless integration into the urban environment.
Experiences:
- Climbing wall, basketball, table tennis and skate park: sporting challenges for young and old.
- Beach bar and kiosks: Relaxation areas with gastronomy.
- Citizens' steps: Stepped seating as a scenic meeting point.
- Market street: Area for temporary markets and events.
- Small stage: Platform for local artists.
- Exhibition spaces: For temporary and permanent art installations.
- Flexible box spaces: Can be used as toilets, showers, exhibition spaces, storage rooms, kiosks, small libraries, changing rooms, information stands, playgrounds, childcare spaces, photo studios, pop-up stores, etc.
Conclusion:
The project offers a unique opportunity to combine Stuttgart's history with modern, sustainable design principles and creates a space that serves as a retreat and meeting place for all Stuttgart residents and visitors to our city.