| Client: | Senatsverwaltung für Stadtentwicklung, Bauen und Wohnen |
| Cooperation: | Christoph Kohl Stadtplaner Architekten ⎜ HOFFMANN-LEICHTER Ingenieurgesellschaft ⎜ Katharina Cordsen |
| Activity: | Urban design qualification (structural and land-use concept) |
| Period: | 2025 |
| Dimension: | 100 ha |
| Location: | Berlin-Baumschulenweg |
The Dreieck Späthsfelde project exemplifies the next generation of sustainable urban neighbourhoods in Berlin. Within the framework of a qualification procedure and preparatory studies pursuant to §165 (4) BauGB, a development vision was formulated that interweaves housing, commerce and infrastructure with a deliberate strengthening of nature, the existing tree nursery and the city’s network of allotment gardens. The guiding idea centres on innovative approaches to open space, ecology, rainwater management and climate resilience – key parameters for forward-looking urban development.
At the end of 2025, the second phase will commence, focusing on the revision and further development of the structure and land-use concept. Building on this, the framework plan for Dreieck Späthsfelde is scheduled to be prepared from mid-2026, with the preparatory investigations expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Urban Design – A Compact Neighbourhood in the Green
The masterplan proposes a compact, mixed-use urban quarter accommodating around 3,600 dwellings at its core, with capacity for a further 1,000 units. The resulting urban density ensures efficient land use and minimises new surface sealing. A central public transport hub forms the vibrant heart of the district, establishing the foundation for sustainable mobility options. The residential programme is complemented by local retail, social infrastructure and high-quality commercial spaces, conceived in vertically stacked typologies to optimise land use. The block structure draws inspiration from Berlin’s characteristic Kieze, creating an intimate, human-scale urban fabric. Emission-intensive and innovative industries are strategically positioned along the perimeter, where noise protection and functional transitions to adjacent residential areas are carefully managed.
Open Space and Ecology – Sponge City and Urban Biodiversity
The open space strategy is a defining element of the project’s sustainability concept. A car-free, green axis traverses the neighbourhood, linking generous public parks at either end. The Späthi Loop – a continuous circular promenade – provides accessible recreation spaces and contributes to a richly green urban landscape. The existing tree nursery, a key identity-giving element of the site, is retained and expanded into a “Tree University”, reinforcing its educational and ecological role. Allotment gardens are largely preserved and sensitively integrated into the new urban structure.
Rainwater management follows the Sponge City principle: precipitation and surface runoff are retained, infiltrated and evaporated locally. Expansive infiltration areas, biotopes and retention zones enhance flood protection and improve the local microclimate. Rainwater is regarded as a valuable resource that supports biodiversity and ecological resilience.
The open spaces are designed to accommodate both recreation and habitat creation. Nature-oriented parks and biotope corridors act as ecological stepping stones, connecting habitats for flora and fauna across the urban area. Targeted greening, ventilation corridors and the integration of water features improve the microclimate and elevate the quality and comfort of public spaces.
Mobility – Sustainable Access and Innovative Transport
The mobility strategy aims to significantly reduce private car use in favour of public transport, cycling and walking. Car traffic is intercepted at the edges of the neighbourhood in multi-storey garages, keeping inner streets free from parking and allowing for safe, high-quality public realms. The central public transport stop lies within walking distance of all residential areas and, together with the district garage, provides strong incentives to use shared and public mobility options.
Cycling routes are extended to connect with the nearby Blaschkoallee and Baumschulenweg stations. A new cycle bridge and attractive routes overcome existing barriers such as the canal and motorway, strengthening connections to North Neukölln. Separating public transport corridors from car traffic enhances spatial quality, reduces noise and creates a calm, people-centred urban environment.
Urban structure plan
Guiding concept
Open space and Ecology
Allotments | Local green spaces | Ecological network and compensation areas
Surface water management and Urban climate functions
Private transport | Public transport | Cycling