BAHNHOFSPLATZ SÜD, HEIDELBERG Cooperation with CUT GmbH, Heidelberg // orangeedge, Hamburg // ATP sustain, Vienna

The new Bahnhofsplatz Süd sees itself as a strong connection. Both between city and country, station and Bahnstadt, as well as within the quarter, exciting spatial sequences are created.

As the "business card" of the Bahnstadt, there is the opportunity to capture the new character through a thorough, so to speak scientific analysis.

Sustainable, typological and economic goals are defined, a wide variety of components are examined, evaluated and then further developed in a harmonious design concept.

In this way, the design process already represents and strengthens the currently emerging 'genius loci' of the Bahnstadt:

Form and function in harmonious harmony.

The utilisation concept is developed from the building ensemble and the room sequences. Differentiated areas are created to match the "contents" of the buildings. Through a sculptural and considerate arrangement of the green spaces, spaces of different exposure continue to emerge. A smooth coexistence, linked with sufficient consideration is promoted. From quiet cafés to lively outdoor gastronomy, to quieter corners or places to meet, a variety of uses is made possible. A great deal of attention continues to be paid to generous open spaces that are open to all uses.

Festivals, markets and other events can be easily organized. Electricity and water connections will be provided in appropriate numbers.


For reasons of sustainability and as a representative entrance, the plaza paving will be in light beige natural stone (shell limestone). In the area of the plaza, large-format parquet tiles are used in rows. The same material will be used in the city loggia and the neighbourhood courtyard to create a uniform image. In order to create a subtle transition, these areas are executed with a slightly modified, uniform row bond. The joints meet the columns of the loggia.

Furnishings and backsplashes will be exposed concrete. Wooden supports provide appropriate comfort. Thus a simple and elegant ensemble is created.



The initial situation, as well as the analysis of pedestrian and pedestrian traffic flows clearly shows the conflict potential at the southeast corner of the station forecourt, which is to be solved creatively. The objective of the design is to clearly define the orientation and guidance of cyclists coming from the bicycle parking garage or from Max-Jarecki-Strasse onto the square by means of a structural/green separation. This also serves as a buffer zone to the Czernyring. The additional concentration of bicycle parking spaces and the nextbike station to the west of the bicycle ramp defines this part of the square as a clear interchange point for bicycle traffic and can be easily reached from all sides. Conversely, the concentration of the transfer point clearly defines the main area of the station forecourt as an arrival and staging area for pedestrians.

The design of the public space between buildings 1.1. and 1.2 follows a guidance of pedestrian and cyclist flows adapted to the hybrid uses of the buildings. Cyclists are placed on an equal footing with pedestrians here due to the expected lower intensity of use and can cycle directly to the northern end of the square, to their own homes, restaurants or the railway balcony.

In the evening hours, users are welcomed with a pleasant lighting concept. Attention is paid to a discreetly targeted illumination integrated into the outdoor facilities. The illumination strengthens on the one hand the guidance system and creates on the other hand by predominantly indirect lighting an atmospheric ambience. This way, dark rooms are not created at any time - but a high level of comfort and safety without producing unnecessary 'light smog'.



Vegetation in an underground car park must always be planned sensitively. The planting concept basically has three components:

- Large-crowned tree groups (trilogy) as space formers and shade providers

- Small-crowned deciduous trees for guidance and as a frame

- Low-maintenance grass planting as a green framework.

The planting areas are arranged in such a way that the microclimate is improved and heat islands are avoided. The trees are only arranged above the parking spaces - not above the traffic lane, so that sufficient root space is available.

Seasonal aspects of the plantings provide highlights in the respective vegetation periods.



The DGNB certification system for urban quarters can be used as a guiding principle in terms of sustainability, thus highlighting and relating integrated qualities in the design.

Relevant points that coincide with the specific wishes of the developer are:

Biodiversity, resilience and mutability, thermal comfort in open space, mobility infrastructure - non-motorized, Integral planning.