Gustav-Hertz-Platz, Berlin

Berlin-Adlershof is continuously developing into one of the largest and most important science and technology locations in Germany. To the north-east, along the railroad and S-Bahn line, there is another 40-hectare development area, the so-called "Gleislinse". A service and commercial quarter is currently being built on the elongated, lenticular site of the former Schöneweide depot. Part of the site is a near-natural, 800 m long green corridor parallel to the railroad line. This open space represents an important element in the green space and pathway network between the Plänterwald and Grünau as well as between the Köllnische Heide and the Johannisthal Landscape Park. The Johannisthal S-Bahn station with the new Gustav-Hertz-Platz is located at the center of the green corridor, which is characterized by ruderal vegetation.



As a neighborhood square, it not only forms the entrance to the new district, but also marks the interface between landscape and urban space. With its natural yet representative character, Gustav-Hertz-Platz offers a high quality of stay. The square is divided by two oval gravel surfaces. As a kind of medallion, with ballast, sleepers, rails and a switch system, the two planted areas refer to the history of the former shunting yard. The drought-loving perennials and grasses planted there, combined with site-appropriate shrubs, emphasize the natural atmosphere of the entire green space. The combination of robust, spatially functional design and ecological sensitivity creates a new address with a lot of character and high recognition value.