Urban planning competition Cambrai-Fritsch Barracks and Jefferson complex
Darmstadt, 2017
Integrated urban, open space and transportation planning concept for the conversion of the former Cambrai-Fritsch-Barracks and the adjacent Jefferson Settlement with 1,300 residential units, 1st price in urban design competition
Use
Urban Planning
Timeframe
2017
Client
Wissenschaftsstadt Darmstadt
Diverse building typologies
In 2017, the "Neues Quartier Ludwigshöhe" proposal won an anonymous urban planning competition by the City of Darmstadt for the conversion of the former Cambrai-Fritsch Barracks and the Jefferson estate. It is an excellent example of sustainable, integrated urban, open-space and transportation planning. The spatial concept reflects the historical structure of two independent areas while expanding them to form compact residential developments. The two quarters are linked by a heritage-listed central ensemble which is known as the Carrée. This central complex serves as the arrival and service hub, with mobility and facilities management, a family center with residential facilities for senior citizens, a childcare center and local amenities. The Carrée also forms part of the "landscaped steps", which function as a green axis between the two quarters and emulate the terraced slope on the western flank of the Odenwald forest. The terraces also feature diverse leisure facilities and green spaces with play and recreational areas, neighborhood gardens and meadow orchards. The diversity of building typologies ensures there is housing for the various different segments of the population. Thanks to the amenities offered by the "landscaped steps" more compact private plots were possible and combined with several plazas this will help promote a strong neighborhood feeling and greater identification. Both parts of the development will be accessed and connected to the surroundings by a network of play streets and shared space pathways. Adequate parking spaces are provided in shared car parks that can respond flexibly to requirements and allow for future technical developments such as e-mobility. The design aims to foster sustainable development with contemporary mobility, and seeks to create a vibrant, socially well balanced neighborhood with short distances for around 3,000 residents on 34 hectares.
Genius loci: forest clearing
Terraced sloped location
Urban village cluster
Village cluster
Parking cluster