ZUKONFD BLÄDDZLE
The idea of the square is to take up the history of the location and at the same time respond to the diverse demands of the residents and a city of tomorrow.
Team name: ensphere GmbH
Authors: Dimitra Theochari, Jonas Kramer, Germany
The new ‘ZUKONFDS BLÄDDZLE’ at Stuttgart's railway station will not only be the prelude to the planned Europaquartier. Rather, the square will serve as a meeting place and recreational area for all Stuttgart residents and visitors to the city with a wide range of utilisation qualities. The square takes up the structure of the former railway station by bringing tracks 5-16 to the surface. Platforms and ‘track beds’ alternate. As a detail and to preserve the unique character of the station, the old track numbers are embedded in the paving on the corresponding platforms. Each platform has a different focus in order to cater to the different wishes of the population.
Gleis 5&6 - Multi-generational sport
Young and old come together here and can play sports on various equipment. There is a boccia area in the centre that invites you to play together.
Track 7&8 - Research forest
A ‘Tiny Forest’ with dense vegetation and a small path invites you to explore. Information boards explain natural processes and raise awareness of urban nature. A small covered pavilion is available for free use.
Track 9&10 - quiet grove
Under a dense canopy of leaves, seating areas invite you to linger. Whether as a group or alone, you can take a break here, use the place as a meeting point or rest in the shade of the trees.
Platform 11&12 - fun and games
This platform invites the youngest visitors to play and run around. A neighbouring water area offers a welcome way to cool off, especially on hot summer days.
Platform 13&14 - Marketplace
Whether flea market or weekly market. A wide variety of stalls can be set up on this platform. There is a permanently installed small café and enough space for a changing programme, which can also be combined with the adjacent multifunctional area.
Platform 15&16 - multifunctional area
Here there is a covered bicycle parking area with an adjoining bicycle workshop and information boards about the new square and neighbourhood. This large open space can also be used for a wide variety of activities and events and incorporate the neighbourhood.
Intermediate space - track beds
Succession areas are created in the ‘track beds’. Planted with a few pioneer trees, nature is given free rein here. Spontaneous vegetation can establish itself and become increasingly dense over time. Furthermore, these areas can be used as water reservoirs according to the sponge city principle. This place continues to change like the city around it and thus demonstrates the dynamics between city and landscape.