Architecture in transition: Neustadt's inner cities need new ideas!

Architecture in transition: Neustadt's inner cities need new ideas!

In the vibrant city of Cologne, the topic of urban development is becoming increasingly explosive. The changes in the city centers in particular have heightened public awareness. According to a conversation with architecture critic Ulrike Mansfeld, it becomes clear how important thoughtful planning is in order to create lively and safe cities. The Rhine Palatinate reports that Mansfeld is critically concerned with current developments in Neustadt, where modern construction projects often ignore the needs of residents.

The last few years have shown that shopping streets and department stores are increasingly losing importance as a classic form of supply. The Corona lockdowns in particular have forced many shops to close, which has left numerous inner cities significantly desolate. Planet knowledge highlights that architects and urban planners are relying on new mixed concepts to reverse this development. An example is the Breuninger department store in Stuttgart, which retains the old facade but at the same time integrates modern elements and creates a place that includes not only retail but also restaurants and offices.

Resource-saving solutions instead of demolition

The trend is clearly towards resource-saving solutions rather than simply demolishing existing structures. Mansfeld advocates preserving old department stores such as the Karstadt in Berlin, which is to be filled with wood, as part of the city's identity. This type of urban development takes into account not only the preservation of buildings, but also the creation of safe and welcoming public spaces, which are particularly relevant for women and girls. Planet knowledge points out that poorly lit sidewalks and unsafe places are a major problem for many people.

In addition, it is important that urban planning includes the voices of all parts of the population. As Mansfeld emphasizes, safe public spaces can be created through citizen participation. This is where the example of Eva Kail from Vienna comes into play, who shows that public spaces can be made safer and more inviting through participatory approaches.

A holistic approach to the future of cities

As urban space expands, the need for a holistic, sustainable approach is becoming increasingly clear. The Federal Agency for Civic Education points out that up to 70% of the world's population could live in cities by 2050. In order to meet this trend, new mobility concepts must be developed and made accessible. City dwellers today expect more than just easy access to housing; They also need good access to income-generating, educational and health-promoting structures.

The redesign of public space is also central: from the introduction of climate-neutral buildings to more green elements in urban design - everything contributes to the quality of life in urban centers. Mansfeld calls for cities to be created as “sponges” that are able to retain rainwater and thus improve the microclimate. Techniques such as retention roofs are innovative approaches to realizing this vision.

The transformation of our cities is not only shaped by the housing needs of the present, but must also take into account the challenges of future generations. It is time to act with a good hand and more foresight to create livable cities that work for all people - a goal that we should tackle together.