Urban Dome
The “Urban Dome” project in Stuttgart, Germany, aims to create a comprehensive, sustainable, and culturally rich space to integrate transportation, leisure, and work, while preserving
the city’s historical heritage.
Author: Yi Liu, China
Introduction
In the 21st century, with rapid urbanization, Stuttgart, Germany faces unique opportunities and challenges in development. Citizens seek spatial diversity, ecological sustainability, and cultural heritage. The “Urban Dome” is an innovative design concept that integrates transportation, leisure, and work, fostering equitable exchange and sustainable urban development.
Design Background and Philosophy
- Background Analysis: Stuttgart, an industrial city and transportation hub, has limitations in its traditional railway station area. The growing population and transport demands necessitate improvements. Fragmentation and isolation of urban spaces hinder community integration and cultural exchange.
- Design Philosophy: The “Urban Dome” addresses these issues through:
- Mixed Space: Integrating transportation, leisure, office meetings, and other functions.
- Equal Communication: Column-free design promotes interaction among diverse citizens.
- Green Ecology: Eco-friendly materials and technologies ensure energy conservation, emission reduction, and self-sufficiency, preserving historical elements.
Design Plan
- Overall Layout: Located in Stuttgart’s central railway station, the “Urban Dome” covers the former platform area with a massive, enclosed yet transparent dome structure. It adheres to aerodynamic principles, enhancing interior comfort.
Structural Features
- GLT Structure: High-strength, lightweight, earthquake-resistant, and environmentally friendly. It achieves a column-free interior.
- Solar Panel Coverage: Converts sunlight into electricity, powering the building with renewable energy.
Functional Zones
- Transportation Hub: Connects trains, subways, bicycles, and other modes, enhancing travel efficiency.
- Leisure and Entertainment Area: Cafes, restaurants, and bookstores foster social interactions.
- Office and Meeting Spaces: Repurposed train carriages offer flexible, efficient work environments.
- Cultural Exhibition Area Showcases Stuttgart’s cultural heritage and artworks.
Environmental Protection and Sustainability
- Rainwater Harvesting: Purifies rainwater for use in toilet flushing, irrigation, etc.
- Green Vegetation Coverage: Purifies air, regulates temperatures, and beautifies the environment.
Cultural Heritage and Historical Memory
- Preserving Historical Traces: Parts of the original platforms and structural elements are preserved and restored, connecting the past with the future.
- Incorporating Historical and Cultural
- Elements: Historical photographs, replicas, and artworks decorate recreational, office, and exhibition spaces, showcasing Stuttgart’s history.
- Establishing a Historical and Cultural
- Exhibition Area: Uses multimedia and virtual reality to immerse visitors in Stuttgart’s history. Regular historical and cultural activities attract attention and promote inheritance.
- Encouraging Community Involvement: Volunteer teams and collaborations with schools, museums, and institutions foster interest in Stuttgart’s culture among youth.