Carved out of the existing structure - an open quarter is created from a closed large-scale structure
The transformation of existing buildings offers enormous potential for sustainable urban development. Instead of demolition and new construction, the focus is on resource-conserving conversion, from repurposing to loft conversions, extensions and the transformation of functionally obsolete large structures. New, mixed urban quarters are being created in former shopping centers or office complexes. In addition to the sustainable aspect of reuse, such projects also make an important contribution to social mixing and the revitalization of urban districts – but are complex in their actual implementation.
One example is the Blauquartier in Ulm, developed by ASTOC and bauchplan where the largest shopping mall in Baden-Württemberg is being transformed into an open urban district. Instead of demolition, we focus on preservation and further development from the underground parking garage to the supporting structure. Around 45,000 m² of formerly single-use retail space will be transformed into mixed urban uses, communal spaces and new living space for over 2,000 people. The Blauquartier is being transformed from a closed space into a centrally located, identity-creating place for the urban community.
Our approach is interdisciplinary from a very early stage: the planning of urban development, architecture and the supporting structure are interlinked from the outset and integrate for example rainwater management. We build with and on top of the center’s existing load-bearing structures, reusing existing building materials and infrastructure and supplementing them with lightweight, modular superstructures.
Transformation is not a temporary solution, but a conscious attitude. It is a key to the sustainable development of urban spaces – resource-conserving, socially effective, identity-defining and at the same time a major challenge to implement. We like that!
Photo credit: ASTOC