The Koln Konzept

The Köln Konzept

| 2 |CARC 301 Texas A&M University

Foreword 4

Analysis 5

Master Plan 34

Analysis & Feasibility Study 52

Site Design 56

| 3 |Ashley . Mayra . Michael . Kenley

Subtitle


Program and Project Introduction

Study Abroad

The overall educational goal of the study-abroad program is to provide an experiential learning experience in a foreign environment and culture. The theme of the program is “cultural-sensitive design for sustainable development.” The program takes place in Bonn, Germany. Students involved in this program explored, interacted and were educated about sustainable practices and sites within Germany and surrounding areas. The learning outcome to be one of lifelong inspiration and a continuation to change the dynamics of landscape architecture and urban planning.

Situated along the Rhine River in the state of Nordrhein-Westfalen is the city of Cologne, Germany. The city’s immense historical value and ever-increasing modern urbanization provides for a unique urban fabric and is the site location for the KÖln Konzept. Cologne is an immensely diverse city with a bountiful history that shall provide for an interesting design context as the project moves through its many stages.

HistoryDevelopment trends in Cologne began 39 BC during in the late stages of the Roman Empire. The Ubii Roman tribe settled along the Rhine River in hopes of expanding their empire from the south. A quarter of a century later, irrigation was introduced to their settlement, now called Colonia, with the invention of the Eifel Aqueduct which brought 20,000 cubic meters of water to the city every day.

Colonia fell to the Ripuarian Franks in 462 AD. Charlemagne became Archbishop of Cologne

in 795, thus empowering the city as the Frank’s capital city. However, in the winter of 881, Vikings conquered the city and burned it down. Following its destruction, the Holy Roman Empire reconquered the city.

In 1288, Cologne became a free city. It has experienced the French Revolutionary Wars, World War I and World War II, and although it endured much destruction throughout this era, it has picked itself up from the ashes and carried on.Each layer of history has influenced the city as a whole in many ways involving architecture and planning. The street systems have changed substantially from the Roman period in the center of Cologne to the 19th Century city structure.

Overview of SiteFifth-year landscape architecture and fourth-year urban and regional planning students from Texas A&M University are given the opportunity to study abroad in Bonn, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany during every fall semester. While these students experience different cultures throughout all of Europe, they are responsible for creating a master plan for a specific site close to their residence. The project for Fall 2013 is located in the heart of Cologne and less than a kilometer from the Rhine River.

This site is home to the Großmarkt, a market center open from 00:00 AM to 02:00 AM, and several storage containers that receive little to no traffic during daylight hours.

The northern border is a ridge that showcases the diversity in invasive plant species. The ridge

includes four sets of train tracks that run parallel to the northern edge of the site. There is also a large green space that borders the site to the southwest and an agriculture garden to the east between the site and the Rhine.The purpose of this exercise is to build off of each student’s interest and background by creating a cohesive plan that is influenced by four major categories: urban agriculture, water, biodiversity, and recycling, reclamation and economic development.


City Development History

City structure in Cologne began when the Roman Empire extended up the Rhine River in 39 BC. The Ubii, an emperial Roman tribe, built its settlement on the Rhine for security and irrigation, and fashioned its street system in a rectangular grid like pattern with two main axes, the Cardo and the Decumanus Maximus. Its population had risen to approximately 20,000 by the time development had ceased. Very little further development was implemented until the Franks, a German civilization, under the reign of Charlemagne invaded the Roman Empire. In the early 800s.

The Franks introduced a new fluid street structure to Cologne. Rather than a grid like streetscape fashioned by the Romans, the Franks preferred casual meandering streets that attracted new building architecture and agriculture. By 1087, development was in full throttle, and by the end of Frankish influence, a new layer of culture had taken over Cologne. Much like the rest of Europe, very little changed between Frankish rule and the Industrial Revolution as a result of an economic depression. However, the 19th century forced Cologne to expand substantially, exploding to the size that it is today. The streets during this time period are a mixture of both Roman and Frankish styles. They are more angular than much like the Roman Empire, yet they provide crisscrossing diagonal streets reminiscent of the Frankish. Two greenbelts intersect Cologne and connect to the Rhine. These greenbelts, originally constructed for agricultural purposes, have

become parks for leisure and recreation. A greenbelt divides the Frankish empire from modern-day Cologne.

2010 501087


Site Location and Context

1km

Germany is located at the heart of Europe; this is showed in the top left map. The project site is geographically located to the south of Cologne, Germany. The following map on the top middle portrays the location of the City of Cologne in Germany. Cologne is situated in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia with the advantage of being located on both sides of the Rhine River.

The project site, GrossMarkt, is situated near the heart of Cologne. The GrossMarkt is in close proximity to an existing greenbelt the Rhine River and many commercial areas. Moreover, the GrossMarkt is conveniently located near Cologne South and Cologne West Eifeltor Stations, which facilitate the process of import deliveries.

Köln

maps.google.com

Cologne, Germany


Initial Impressions Diagram

Greenway

Major Intersection

Nodes

Site Entrance/Exit

Major

Paths

Intermediate

Railroad

Tram Line

Rhine River

Minor Interior

Districts

Edges

Major

Landmarks

Minor

RoundaboutWholesale Market

Grostmarkthalle

Industrial Chimneys

Hospital

Museum

High Rise

Friedenspark

Urban Ag.

Cologne Site Image Diagram LegendStephanie // Ellie // Emily // Kenley

Residential

0m 200m

The site Diagram was designed based on the Kevin Lynch Concept from his book “The Image of the City”. Lynch’s concept consists of five elements: (1) Paths, which consists of mainly streets and sidewalks, (2) Edges, boundaries such as walls, (3) Districts, large areas with an identity, (4) Nodes, such as intersections, and (5) Landmarks, distinguishable physical objects. These remarkable elements were taking into consideration when designing the diagram on the left to analyze the usage of space and how people relate to those spaces in the project site.

Many paths were found in the project site and represented by the black lines. The thick black lines represent the major streets running through the site. The red-stripped lines represent the railroads that intersect the project site. On the other hand the blue-stripped lines represents the Rhine River and the solid blue line shows the Rhine riverfront. The different districts are showed in distinctive colors. The beige district represents the GrossMarkt. The circles identify most of the nodes. The larger circles have a greater focal than the smaller ones. There are also found many landmarks shown by the yellow squares such a hospital, industrial chimneys, and a museum. The Initial Impression Diagram analyzed not only the GrossMarkt, but also the surrounding areas including the existing greenbelt and the Rhine River.

Site Diagram


Figure Ground Relationship

Examining the figure-ground relationship can reveal the urban context in which the site is located. One can also begin to get a feel for building dominance in the landscape. The purpose of such a diagram is to quickly and simply put into perspective the amount of built versus ground level environment. This allows the reader to begin imagining the site conditions

and interpreting what that could mean for site design further in the process.

The site, with its left boundary along the large curved road, is primarily dominated by built warehouses. This is distinctive, as the surrounding urban development has a varying structure and form. It is also easy to notice

the vast disconnect between the site and its surroundings. Major roads simply outline the site while interior street structure is convoluted and complex with no hierarchy of design.

From this information it is simple to draw conclusions and highlight issues and problems within the sight. This creates a platform in which

design decisions will be made. Furthermore this diagram will be important to consider as the design team makes decisions on how to improve the site conditions. In the end, it will be vital to compare and contrast the final site plan to the existing figure-ground relationship to quantify the design decisions that will be made.

Building Form

Transportation


Walkability

The GrossMarkt is located to the south of Cologne, Germany. The map shows the site and its relation to many points of interest throughout the city. Located within a ten minute walk of the site includes the existing greenway, urban agriculture, and a hospital. The Rhine River, Smend Galerie, and another hospital to the north are just over a ten minute walk from the site. From the GrossMarkt, one can walk to the Cologne Business School in under twenty minutes and to the shopping area in downtown Cologne within thirty minutes. Situated to the north, the Kolner Philharmonic as well as the Cologne Haupbahnhof and Cologne Cathedral are within a forty minute walk.

In Europe it is more suitable to walk and use public transportation to get to a destination than to use a personal vehicle. European countries have policies regarding traffic and the environment. These guidelines affect “approaches to planning urban networks for walking” as well as the “results of green mode encouragement” (Tolley, R). These policies effect the where housing is located within and near a city. Housing in European cities are located closer to the center of the city. These housing developments are “attractive and comfortable and where there are local destinations” which are associated with walking near home” (Pikora). This is in contrast to the American custom of using a personal vehicle to arrive at a destination. Western cities are becoming increasingly congested “due to the reliance on a flawed mode of transport” and trips that can be made “on foot or by bicycle” rather than by car (Tolley, R). †


Water

1. Analysis

intro to swot page

Stormwater goes through a variety of processes between the sky to the Rhine River. Rainwater begins in the clouds with little to no pollution contaminating it. As it falls from the clouds, it collides with many pollutants, which reside in the air molecules. The water than transports these pollutants onto either the rooftops of the storage sheds and Großmarkt or the vegetation on the greenbelt that surrounds the site to the north and southwest.

Water on Impermeable Surfaces:The some of the water that flows onto the rooftops becomes stagnant after rainfall and is then susceptible to toxins released by the roofing materials from sunlight and heat. Pollutants from the air molecules and toxins from the roofs soon fall with water onto the concrete that surrounds the buildings, which add yet more toxins into the water. Finally, the runoff reaches the Rhine River.

Water on Permeable Surfaces:Rainfall reaching the greenbelt is intercepted by vegetation, which takes in the nutrients and pollutants from water. Therefore, although the water has only just flown from the atmosphere, the vegetation on the ground floor still receives the pollutants that the water molecules picked up on the way down.

The Rhine River:Regardless of water flow from the clouds to the ground, the Rhine River is still receiving pollutants and toxins from the atmosphere, buildings, and pavement. It is of upmost importance to manage and preserve existing water bodies to their full potential.

Stormwater Quality and Management


Water Flow and Topography

The GrossMarkt is located next to the Rhine River. The diagrams show the water flow in the site’s area. Within the site, the land has a 0.067 percent slope. Otherwise stated, the area is very flat. Water mainly stays on site when raining. However, the low sloped topography shows that water is drained north to the train tracks. The tracks are on top of a berm which stops the water. The water has to be drained by pipe from here or pushed east to the river.

Surrounding Topography

Moreover, the streets are designed to drain water with their slope. Bischofsweg street and Markstrasse, the southern border streets of the site, act as drainage avenues. These streets drain most of the water east towards the river. At the top of Bischofsweg street, water is drained west. Around and within the site, water flows over impervious surfaces. In the process, water picks up pollutants as well as

total suspended solids. These pollutants and solids are transported to other areas within and around the site. Water continues to flow along the streets toward the Rhine River.

Regionally, water is pushed into depressions in the landscape. These are located on the both sides of the site. These depressions in the landscape allow the water to either sit or percolate into the soil depending on whether

the surface is impervious or pervious. The low point in the land west of the site is a park and part of the inner green belt to the city. This area allows water to percolate into the ground. The type of drainage on site is to push the water somewhere else. One consequence of this is urban flooding. Furthermore, erosion of streets can occur with flooding. Our site has the potential to let water percolate into the ground with pervious surfaces.


Site Stormwater Flow

Site Water Flow

Regional Water Flow

Street Water Flow


Sunlight and Shadow Model

As the urbanization of cities continues to grow more larger and at an ever-increasing rate, it is important to take note on the affects of thermal pollution in regards to stormwater quality and downstream pollution. Concrete and built environments have a higher capacity for absorbing heat produced by the sun and reradiating that heat throughout the day and night. When rainfall events occur, the radiated heat begins to warm the stormwater passing over the heated surfaces. The rise in temperature can have many devastating

affects on wildlife and aquatic species that may be living in the streams and ponds in which this heat polluted stormwater will end up at. Although, it has been found that thermal pollution is highly dependent on the rainfall events and local climate. This causes great fluctuation in the amount of pollution and where this type of pollution occurs. After much analysis, thermal pollution can be considered to be a low threat on our site due to lower average temperatures and thoroughly distributed rainfall events. †

Major

Average

Minor

Water Thermal Pollution

5.4˚C

6.7

10.9

15.1

19.3

21.9

24.4

24.0

19.8

15.1

9.5

5.9

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

62.1mm

54.2

64.6

53.9

72.2

90.7

85.8

75.0

74.9

67.1

67.0

71.1

Building Shadows

Risk of Thermal Pollution by Month


Pervious | Impervious

92.7%

Currently, the GrossMarkt is developed with warehouse-like buildings. These buildings are used to receive large vehicles car-rying goods to the area to sell. The common scene of trucks driv-ing in the area has led to the use of concrete roads and parking lots throughout the site. Because of the site has developed with concrete, most of the area is impermeable. In its existing condi-tion, the GrossMarkt only has 10.9 acres or 4.4 hectares of pervi-ous surface area out of the 148.4 acres or 55.6 hectares. Other-wise stated, 92.7 percent of the site is impervious. As you can see by the diagram, the areas in green that are pervious are small compared to the site as a whole. The site is governed by the buildings portrayed in black throughout the site. These pervious areas are not only small, but they are scattered. One effect of this situation is increased storm water runoff throughout the built environment.

Percent Stormwater Retained: 22.27%

Annual Runoff: 27.96”

www.epa.gov/nrmrl/wswrd/wq/models/swc/

S.W.O.T. Water

Regarding water, the site has no bodies of water within the site. It is located on a very flat piece of land. The slope of the area is .067 percent. Furthermore, the majority of the site is made of concrete and asphalt along the ground. These surfaces are impervious for wa-ter and run between the buildings. This creates a large impervious built environment. The few pieces of pervious land within the site are small and scattered. As a result, there is a threat of in-creased runoff of water within the site. This run-off travels along the streets till it gets to a drain or a depression in the landscape where water can percolate into the ground. Problems which increased runoff can present are flooding in parts of the site and street erosion. Although the site is flat and mostly impervious, t is located along the high point of a ridge. In other words, water will flow off the site to depressions in the landscape elsewhere. The site is also located next to existing green space. This green space is part of the inner green ring for the city of Co-logne. This provides the opportunity for a con-nection of the site to this green space. The site has the potential to reduce flooding through increased water percolation if re-designed. The area can become a unique avenue from the existing green space to the Rhine River in addi-tion to reducing unnecessary risks like increased water runoff.

Strengths• Located along ridge high point• Connection to greenspace• Divided water flow

Opportunities• Reduced Flooding• Increased water percolation

Weaknesses• Large built environment• Lack of permeable coverage

Threats• Increased runoff amount/rate• Increased risk of thermal pollution in

summer


Biodiversity

This graphic shows the differences between evergreen trees and deciduous trees, which may both be planted in this region. These tree types, hypothetical to the site, showcase the different opportunities of biodiversity.

The deciduous trees (upper left) allow for varying sunlight penetration throughout the four seasons, thus allowing other plant species to receive sunlight for a part of the year. This deciduous tree can survive with many other plant species, such as flowering bushes and shrubs, that require sunlight. Winter (W) is perhaps the most opportune time for biodiversity because the sunlight peeks through the trees at different angles, while Summer (S) is the least opportune time because the sun barely shines through the trees. Spring (S) and Fall (F) are adequate in terms of sunlight penetration; these seasons allow enough penetration for life, but not enough for sustaining it. Regardless of the time of year, deciduous trees will be able to sustain biodiversity.

Evergreen trees (lower left) are unable to let sunlight penetrate its way to the understory of the forest and are therefore unable to sustain other life throughout the year. Therefore, by using evergreen trees rather than deciduous trees, the vegetation will always be green but will never sustain biodiversity.

Animal and Plant Biodiversity


Green Space Connection Potential

biotop map overlayed on figure ground map

The city of Cologne was designed to have a green ring around the inner city. Our site is located at the south end of this ring next to the Rhine River. The area was not designed with the continuation of this ring in mind. As seen in the diagram, the site poses as a direct halt to the green ring. It is a separation between the green ring and the Rhine River. Within the site, there are four green spaces. These spaces

are small and separated from each other by the built environment which includes concrete roads and parking. These spaces within the site are not helpful to the biodiversity of the area as a whole. The green ring is terminated abruptly because of the site thus breaking a green corridor. Without the continuation of this corridor, many animal species are not able to move within the city safely. Animals are forced

to travel longer distances across dangerous streets with vehicles to get to the next green area. Furthermore, native plant species are not able to become firmly rooted within the green spaces that are left within the area. The spaces within the area that are left green are generally used as a park and public space. Otherwise stated, the remaining green areas are used mostly by humans who leave inadequate

space for plant growth. This in turn affects the lack of biodiversity in insects due to the lack of plant species within the existing green. A continuous green corridor to the Rhine River has the potential to provide an aesthetically pleasing and healthy-bio diverse area.

City Greenbelt


Animal Species

There are several animal species native to the Rhine River valley. Birds are the most common class in Cologne; for example, there are over 100 species of duck along the Rhine River alone. Pidgeons and parrots are also common birds known that inhabit the site. Mammals include rodents, red foxes, wild boars, red squirrels, and hedgehogs, who used to be endangered to the area but have since multiplied in numbers and are now at a healthy number). Finally, insects include ants, bees, wasp, and cavedwelling spiders.

Invasive species continue to compete for land that native species reside in. In the 3rd and 4th century, the sika deer was introduced into Germany. Later in 1928, the fallow deer pursued the German country. In 1892, the green parrot ventured into the country from India, and in 1970, the ring-necked parakeet followed. The parrot and parakeet are now locally established. The nutria, american mink, and muskrat have all migrated into the country over the centuries, and they have also established themselves as successful invasive species.

Although there are many species that have migrated into the country, bears and wolves have actually emigrated from Germany as a result of climate changes and security. They are now seldom seen in Germany.


Plant Species

Native

Invasive

Birch and oak tries are two of the most common native trees in Cologne, Germany. Other native plants include beech trees, oak trees, chamomile, hornbeam, heather, and cornflower, which is Germany’s national flower. All of these plants are prominent in the region, although some do not exist in the site. Many wildflower species, such as chamomile, heather, and cornflower, have grown along the railroad corridor on the northern border of the site and inside of the site in unused space.

Many invasive species are prominent along these railroad corridors due to their accessibility to the rest of the region. The willow tree is a prominent invasive plant that has become locally established throughout the region.

Birch Hornbeam Chamomile Oak

Heather Beech Juniper Cornflower

Willow

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Railroad Ecological Corridor

Complex Simple

High

Low

Low

High

Edge to Interior Ratio

Connectivity

Plant Community Structure

Corridor Structure Characterisitics

Potential Prairie Corridor

Ecological corridors occur along continuous divisions in the landscape such as rivers, railroads and highways. The connection of the railroad from our site to the surrounding areas near Cologne provide for unique conditions to create vegetation and wildlife corridors. The complexity and connectivity of these corridors determine the level of species diversity and how beneficial these landscapes can be to the environment. As seen in the three images to the right, there are varying types of corridors. Like these examples, our site is a homogenous mix of plants that do not provide for intense wildlife diversity. In addition the capacity for these landscapes to benefit the environment is unfortunately low. The more species diversity the better the soil conditions typically are, meaning that percolation of stormwater occurs more quickly and in a healthier manner.

This will be an important consideration in bringing wildlife to an area of Cologne that is urbanized in a way that prohibits many species of plants and animals from existing.

Existing Conditions

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S.W.O.T. Biodiversity

In terms of biodiversity, this site is virtually a petri dish filled with opportunity. Although it is mainly covered with concrete and various forms of industrial infrastructure, the railroad that runs along the site’s northern border carries several species of plants as seedlings that later turn into diverse growth along the track. With this already-implemented process as a jumping point, the opportunities available for this site are plentiful.

However, although plant life will be fairly simple to enhance along the site, providing incentives for wildlife may be more complex. Currently, there are three green spaces that border the site, and although several types of birds, insects, and small mammals utilize these three spaces, bridging a connection between the three spaces may not bring the wildlife into the site. While plants are virtually stationary, animals are more mobile, moving from place to place.

One thing is for certain, though. This site is a clean slate for development, open to enhanc-ing opportunities for plant life, wildlife, and hu-man life, alike.

Strengths• Several parks• Location to greenbelt• Plants that have begun growing

Opportunities• Promote wildlife diversity/connections• Reduces urban heat effects • Blank slate for development• Railroad corridor

Weaknesses• Strong disconnect between greens-

paces• No room for creating new habitat• Unorganized and ill-maintained Threats

• Transportation creates dangerous habitat


Urban Agriculture

1. Analysis

Urban agriculture is simply the growing of plants and the raising of animals in and around an urban area. More specifically, UA is a way of integrating these things into the economic and ecological fabric of the city, allowing them to interact as part of the urban system as a whole. UA first began taking roots around 3500BC in Mesopotamia where farmers began to set aside plots of land in their growing cities. In the 1880s, the Salvation Army set up farm colonies within industrialized cities to help citizens become more self-sufficient. Over

time, as industrialization led to higher densities within cities, urban agriculture slowly grew into more of an anarchist, grass-roots movement as citizens began fighting for a sense of self-fulfillment and empowerment in large urban systems. Today, UA is becoming more and more common as our we continue to learn about its potential benefits.

Access to fresh healthy foods within the urban environment is the most obvious benefit of urban agriculture, but there are many others.

Urban agriculture also provides food security for those with lower incomes and makes a city more resilient. It greatly reduces the amount of energy used to produce a food by eliminating gas-powered equipment from the process of cultivation and transportation. Urban agriculture encourages physical activity, provides education opportunities, and promotes socialization within the community. Urban agriculture can also stimulate the economy. When urban farms produce more than the local residents can consume, the

excess usually goes to local farmers’ markets. This can prove quite profitable. According to Lovell, “one urban farm in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, grosses more than $200,000 per acre.” Urban agriculture also supports biodiversity by attracting and providing habitat to small animals and important pollinators. Finally, urban agriculture plays a role in urban greening which reduces the heat island effect and stormwater runoff.


Site Location | Benefits/Risks

95.3%

Benefits Perceived RisksHealthy Food Hinders Urban Development

Heath Risks

Not Profitable

Negative Environmental Impacts

Food Security

Energy Reduction

Physical Activity

Educational

Social Interaction

Access to fresh healthy foods within the urban environment is the most obvious benefit of urban agriculture, but there are many others. Urban agriculture also provides food security for those with lower incomes and makes a city more resilient. It greatly reduces the amount of energy used to produce a food by eliminating gas-powered equipment from the process of cultivation and transportation. Urban agriculture encourages physical activity, provides education opportunities, and promotes socialization within the community. Urban agriculture can also stimulate the economy. When urban farms produce more than the local residents can consume, the excess usually goes to local farmers’ markets. This can prove quite profitable. According to Lovell, “one urban farm in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, grosses more than $200,000 per acre.” Urban agriculture also supports biodiversity by attracting and

providing habitat to small animals and important pollinators. Finally, urban agriculture plays a role in urban greening which reduces the heat island effect and stormwater runoff.

Opposition to urban agriculture can occur quite frequently. There are many stakeholders involved to ensure that these systems are viable, safe and sustainable in character. Because of this, there are varying opinions and suggestion on when, how and who should command these UA efforts. Common arguments made against or in concern to UA are that it hinders urban development, poses potential health risks, has possible negative environmental impacts and is not highly profitable. As UA has major beginnings in the U.S. only since the 1990’s, the factual data is still being produced, leaving much to be researched and further explained.

Urban Agriculture Site Occupancy Percentage


Climate for Food Production

Climate plays a major role in the production of food crops and agriculture world wide. It de-termines what crops are able to be grown and how long those crops are able to survive. Two major components of climate are sunlight hours and precipitation which are shown in the dia-gram on the left.

Urban agriculture is a relatively new practice making its way into the urban fabric of cities. The urban context can allow for elevated heat conditions due to the reflectivity of building ma-terials like metal and concrete. This elevation in temperature can provide climates conducive for plants not originally grown in some regions. The chart highlights the growing seasons in which food crops can be grown in Cologne, Germany. Listed types of crops include; apples, pears, grapes, peas, lettuce, cabbage, squash, watermelon, potatoes and tomatoes. These are common vegetable and fruits produced by local farms and existing urban agricultural farms in the area.


S.W.O.T. Urban Agriculture

Strengths• Existing agricultural site• Promotes biodiversity• Focus on healthy living• Favorable climate

Opportunities• Bring together communities• Increase green space• Can be increased to other locations

Weaknesses• Aesthetics• Access/Findability• Only constitutes 4.6% of site

Threats• Prohibits urban development• Health risks

Most striking in regards to urban agriculture is the vast potential to incorporate new agricul-tural practices into the site design. Currently, there are very few and under utilized sites that are operating. Sites like these have the po-tential to become cultural hubs of community interaction providing a space to grow food and interact. After examination, it seems that the current larger site is performing well under its current condition. Although, only 4.6% of the site is currently being used for agriculture. We hope to expand this percentage by implement-ing varying forms of urban agriculture through-out the site.

The climatic conditions of Cologne seem to be favorable for a range of typical fruits and vege-tables. Sunlight hours and average rainfalls pro-vide favorable growth environments for many agricultural plants. Applying these sites will be tricky as to not hinder urban development. This is a major concern that arises from many stake-holder groups.


Industrial Recycling | Economic Development

As the world continues to develop, natural resources are rapidly depleting, energy consumption along with waste management and the abandonment of existing spaces are becoming crucial issues. However, industrial reclamation plays a vital role in reducing the consumption of natural resources, reducing waste disposal, assisting in energy efficiency and converting unused spaces into usable ones. Today, industrial reclamation is referred to as a beneficial use or recycling by-product materials generated from industrial processes in an environmentally responsible manner. These materials can often be used as substitutes for raw materials in the manufacture of consumer products, roads, bridges, buildings, and other construction projects.

Through industrial recycling, applying adaptive programs and making careful considerations of the environment, something that is no longer an eyesore for the surrounding community becomes a usable and workable space. Furthermore, by changing the blights of abandoned spaces back into something that can be reused, reinvestment is encouraged and promoted into unused areas to bring back businesses and live to a once undesirable area. An excellent example showing how a space can be used through the means of industrial recycling is the Zollverein industrial complex located in Essen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany. This site consists of the complete infrastructure of a historical coal-mining and coke manufacturing site that includes 20th century buildings. This unique site demonstrates

both the evolution and decline of the essential coal mining industry of Germany over the past 150 years and clearly shows that industrial recycling works and is beneficial.

Industrial reclamation can only bring benefits to the city as it enhances the economic opportunities for revenue and it has the potential to become a scenic site that serves many purposes. Therefore, industrial reclamation plays an essential role in the move towards sustainable consumption and production – not only in terms of energy but in terms of all resources we produce and permitting the reclamation of abandoned spaces into usable ones.


Land Use | Reclamation Potential

The Grossmarkthalle site consumes half of the overall site, while high density residential and business take up the other half. Industrial zoning and all three types of residential zoning surround the site. Very few park buildings are allotted around the northern border and west of the site.

The green spaces inside of the site supplement the few green buildings that surround it. These green spaces take up the spare space not shown in the graphic to the left, and they are vital to maintaining a natural balance consumed by man-made structures.

Each building on the site was analyzed and graded on its ability to be re-used in site development and design. It was chosen based on several varying categories from location, orientation, structure or other unique characteristics. The materials were also taken into account, as they may provide interesting visual assets or landscape design aspects. The idea of reclamation and reuse of site materials adds depth to the design and creates a new unique and dynamic landscape. It also incorporates the very non-wasteful and progressive nature of the region and country.

Land Use MapReclamation Potential


Transportation | Waste | Demographics

Existing transportation routes provide great external access to the site. Although major high traffic roads, these routes have the capacity to handle more forms of transportation which provides more flexibility in site design. Oppositely, the site is very divided by these traffic routes, which will prove difficult to bridge. The interior is fairly unused by the public, rather it is larger trucks transporting supplies to and from the site. Bordering the north edge is a

major railroad track that serves as a large divide between the old city and the new. The green squares represent existing waste management locations. These are large noise concerns as well as aesthetic barriers. Inversely, it won’t be a large concern in design development, as waste sites like these are easily changed depending on land use and design.

There are 1.017 million people within the city of Cologne, Germany as of 2012. The city is very dense in terms of population. More than two thousand people per square kilometer live in the city. First, within the green inner ring of the city, there is over seven thousand to over eight thousand people living. Second, to the east of the site outside the green inner ring, there are over forty eight hundred to six thousand people living. Lastly, around and to the south of the GrossMarkt site live over one thousand to eight thousand people. One trend in the population growth is to the south of the inner city of Cologne towards the site. This allows an opportunity for the site to develop a better transportation system as well as an amenity within the site which will attract people to the area.


S.W.O.T. Industrial Recycling & Reclamation

Strengths• Abundant material• Large Available Area• Strategic Location

Opportunities• Design inspiration• Material reclamation• Connectivity

Weaknesses• Excessive material• Infrastructure

Threats• Lack of economic boosters

The industrial reclamation capabilities of this site could be very exciting in terms of urban design form, reuse and reclamation. Many sites in and around Germany have set extreme precedents for intellectual reuse of industrial developments. The Grossmarkt site has many buildings, including the Grossmarkt itself, that can be reclaimed for future use in the development of the site. Additionally, buildings that are demolished can provide material to the site which may be implemented into the landscape design. This framework is advantageous in creating a unique, lively and functioning space for the city of Cologne.

The GrossMarkt has abundant material that has the potential to be recycled and reused in a different method. Moreover, the wholesale market is significantly large and spacious to accommodate many uses. There are many opportunities in terms of design, material reclamation and connectivity that are possible in the project site that can lead to increase the aesthetic value of the site.

Although, having a significant amount of material is a positive thing and can also be considered a weakness since excessive material leads to the potential of being misused. Another weakness of the site is the fact that the area is surrounded by infrastructure that is no longer being used. Since the site is not appealing at the moment and it lacks connectivity one of the threats that the site faces is the lack of economic boosters.


Proposed Master Plan

The city of Cologne has thoroughly analyzed conditions within the city and has created a proposed master plan that includes our site. We consider this to be the city’s own KÖln Konzept. The city envisions a unified and connected greenway along with much mixed use development along the outer edges of the site. This addresses many of the issues we have uncovered on the site through extensive site analysis. It will be important to consistently look at the city’s vision as we develop our own visions for the area of Cologne.

There are many aspects of the site that provide technical solutions to the many issues we are facing. Although, we feel as though a thorough and more thoughtful resolution can be made. Like this design we plan to continue the greenbelt all the way to the Rhine River, making a connection that has been decades in waiting. Additionally, increasing the built structure of the site that takes advantage of the vast green space is quite positive. We disagree with the total removal of the Grossmarkt site. We believe there is value in history and this site has great potential to create a new branding image for the site.


Potential Site Programming

Site Program• Create a better balanced pervious to impervious ratio

• Increases percolation and stormwater retention• Increases stormwater runoff quality by decreasing

potential for thermal pollution

• Increase site accessibility and interior mobility• Spurs economic prosperity within the site by

increasing the amount of people

• Connect greenway to the Rhine• Increases biodiversity by creating extended

ecological corridors and nodes• Creates a thriving corridor along the railroad

• Increases plant and anmial species diversity• Increases aesthetic value

• Reuse structures and materials • Enhances historical context• Creates unique fabric for design

• Expand urban agriculture• Increases green space within the site• Adds community social interaction


Resources

† Sources

Herb, W. R., Janke, B., Mohseni, O. and Stefan, H. G. (2008), Thermal pollution of streams by runoff from paved surfaces. Hydrol. Process., 22: 987–999. doi: 10.1002/hyp.6986

Tolley, R. (Ed.). (1990). The greening of urban transport: planning for walking and cycling in West-ern cities.

Pikora TJ, T. J. (2006). Neighborhood environmental factors correlated with walking near home: Us-ing SPACES. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(4), 708-714.

Images:

Page 19walking-on-water.orgglory2godforallthings.comwww.123rf.comwww.ashridgetrees.co.uktreepicturesonline.comen.wikipedia.org www.bhg.comwww.billcasselman.comshanasparkles.wordpress.com

Page 20vulcanmaterials.comdbiservices.combeyondpesticides.org


Master PlanConcept to Final Master Planning Phase

Rapid Idea GenerationTwo Initial Concepts

One Combined Plan

Final Master Plan


Initial Concepts

Concept 1 takes preexisting building structures from the storage units and applies them in a new shopping and retail district that celebrates the history of the site. The Grossmarkt is kept as a reminder of the site’s history, yet its new convention is undecided. A large portion of the site is allotted to the continuation of the greenbelt, providing forest, prairie, and lawn in the southern region for recreation and connectivity. Urban agriculture has been moved from the eastern part of the site to just south of the Grossmarkt, intending to increase

frequent traffic around the Grossmarkt. Finally, the increase in permeable surfaces helps to decrease runoff contamination as well as flooding on impermeable surfaces.

Concept 2 focuses more on the natural aspect of the region, leaving most of the site bare in terms of building structure. The whole site, intended as a recreational development, keeps the Grossmarkt as a recreation facility, partially taken over by greenscape. A few buildings have been left as rock wall facilities. The greenbelt gives plants and animals more opportunities to thrive through three different green ecosystems: forests, prairies, and lawns. The topography of the site has been inverted; the eastern edge next to the Rhine River is now

the high point, thus forcing water to instead run off into a retention pond rather than the river. This pond, located in the heart of the site will be the main attraction, offering recreation and relaxation to the region.

Concept 1 Concept 2


Combining Ideas

Our combined concepts feature the structure of concept 1 with the greenscape of concept 2. The greenbelt continuation is the most important piece that we hope to apply in our master plan. The continuation includes three types of greenspace: forests, prairies, and lawns, and the green belt runs directly through the site from west to east. The pond from concept 2 is also in this collective concept plan; it is located directly on the center of the green belt and intersects Bonner Strasse, which has been raised into a bridge that allows the pond to float underneath it. We have applied the concept of adaptive reuse to several storage containers on the northwest side, embracing the history of the site while modernizing its presence. We have also allotted space on the northern and southern edges for commercial and residential development. Finally, we have added a programmed space on the eastern border next to the Rhine River for active recreation.

Combined Initial Concept


Refinement | Sketches

As we went through the refinement process, our team discussed the feasibility of many of our concepts. Slowly, our concept molded into what we call our master plan.

While following closely to our original concept plan, we changed very little in our first refinement. As a simple modification, we added interior street systems that would transport people to different destinations inside of the site. We then removed the proposed buildings south of the Grossmarkt in order to expand the proposed urban agriculture center north.

Our second refinement focused primarily on connectivity. We immediately removed the pond in the middle of the site and

replaced it with open space and walking trails. The pond was 1) too large, 2) too expensive, and 3) too unfeasible; it would likely disrupt current underground transportation and utility systems. We instead created a new water feature close to the Rhine River, adjacent to the existing wavy building. We refined our streets, making them easier to maneuver around. The streets are now grid-like instead of winding. Furthermore, we extended certain industrial storage units in the northwest of the site to create pedestrian boulevards and cozy shopping spaces.

Our third refinement focused on walking paths and movement. After removing the pond in our second refinement, we had an empty space to fill with movement, recreation, relaxation,

and connectivity. We proposed a system of walking paths that would coincide with the lines of the storage units that would become a retail and restaurant district in the northwest portion of the site. These paths would cross at convenient intervals and move pedestrians easily from west to east and vise versa. Our new water feature was then moved just south of the preexisting wavy building, thus reflecting the architecture of the building.

Pedestrian Movement Improved Contextual Access Sight Lines


Final Master Plan

Development:The final master plan is the result of the modification of the combined concept. Some of the elements from the combined concept were modified to highlight the structure and greenscape that we intend to achieve. Street structure was improved to provide adequate infrastructure for all modes of transport in addition to increasing mobility and accessibility. Pedestrian boulevards were added to enhance connectivity throughout the site. Site lines defined the orientation of building and leads to focal points that become destinations.

Features:In terms of water, the pond initially proposed to be in the center of the greenbelt near the Grossmarkt was strategically located in the eastern edge near the Rhine River. The new location makes the pond feasible and cost effective. Building reclamation is also a significant feature of the final master plan as it conserves the history of the site. The reclaimed buildings will serve as a hub to attract people to a destination that is historically and culturally rich.

Greenbelt Connection:Continuing the existing greenbelt to the Rhine River is one of the major goals of the final master plan. Concept 2 defined the intentions of creating three types of greenspace: forests, prairies, and lawns. These types of greenspace provides a space for recreational and leisure activities for residents and non-residents of the area. The greenbelt consists of pedestrian and bike paths to accommodate alternative methods of transportation. The design of the greenspace reflects the importance of including aesthetic features, but it also reflects the importance of preserving biodiversity. The final master plan also addresses the need to residential areas.

400’


Connecting the Greenbelt

Previously the Grossmarkt site blocked the connection of the greenbelt to the Rhine River. The over built, industrial site hindered any productive or enjoyable movement through the site. To the right you can see the improved site conditions in relation to the figure-ground diagram above. We have provided

comfortable connections in several locations throughout the site to maximize access and movement to, from and through the site. The experience is vastly different and much greener than before. We hope the site will attract new and vibrant users and create a new district in the city of Cologne.


Mixed Use Shopping Corridor Section

This section facing towards the west displays the main mixed used shopping area. From left to right the forest transitions into the main pedestrian pathway. Beyond the pathway that includes both bike and pedestrian is one of the main interior streets that links into an existing intersection on the west side of the site. The first and second buildings are existing industrial structures that will be re purposed

into retail, restaurant or entertainment space. The historical context and unique urban dynamic add a fun and playful element into this district. On the far right is a new mixed use center with existing buildings on the bottom that are incorporated into the new building structure. Between the two structures lies the water feature that represents the transition from modernity to nature.


Site Perspectives

View looking north over the site. You can see the transition between the forest to the open green space.


View from the Rhine to the Grossmarkt shows how the paths follow the building sight lines into the main mixed use area of the site.

Site Perspectives


View towards the Rhine shows how the forested park on the southern side is connected into the site.

Site Perspectives


The density of the forest gives the impression of a natural area but allows for visibility to increase safety sight lines.

Site Perspectives


By calculating the increase in pervious surfaces and greenspace in impervious/pervious models, we are able to measure the decline of water runoff and contamination.

Currently, the site is 92.7% impervious, and the percent of storm water that is retained is 22.27%. This means that most of the water that intercepts the site flows off of it and into the Rhine River. While flowing through the site, the water becomes contaminated and virtually unusable. This is caused by storm water accumulation of suspended solids and pollutants from paved surfaces such as streets and sidewalks.

Our concept plan projects rainfall to fall onto the greenbelt and pervious surfaces, thus retaining most of the potential groundwater. We also speculate in our plan that the rainwater will percolate through the trees, into water-cleansing water features, and through water-suitable paths to recirculate into the

atmosphere and Rhine River.

Our plan incorporates pervious pavements such as cobblestone and gravel to allow water to seep through our infrastructure and into the ground.

We propose to increase the site’s greenspace to 81 ac./33 ha., taking up 34% of the site. Interior pervious roads take up 6 ac./2 ha., and pervious courtyards inside of residential buildings take up 16 ac./7 ha. The impervious pedestrian boulevards between the industrial storage units take up 17 ac./3 ha. In total, the amount of pervious space is equal to 110 ac./45 ha., thus making up approximately 60% of the site.

By Increasing the greenspace we calculated, using the epa.gov storm water calculator, that 66.73% of annual rainfall is retained on-site, an increase from 22%. Also, the annual runoff has decreased from 26” to only 11.96”.

By addressing the needs of plant- and animal-life and providing new ecosystems to the site, we are able to measure new opportunities through impervious/pervious models and plant plans.

Currently, the site is 92.7% impervious. Because it is impossible for water to reach the ground surface in most of the site, the most biodiversity on the site is along the railroad tracks on the northern edge. Here, passerby may recognize several species of wildflower, brush, and grass, but regardless of his or her observation, biodiversity even along the railroad is virtually inexistent in the site.

Our master plan incorporates three versions of greenspace that provides opportunities for various plant species to thrive in the environment: forest, prairie, and lawn. The greenspace constitutes 43% of the site, flowing in free form from west as forest and gradually decreasing in density to lawn at the eastern border with the Rhine River. We propose to keep the ecological corridor along the railroad in order to promote biodiversity through invasive species inside of the site. The forest, prairie, and lawn constitute 34 ac./14 ha., 11 ac./4 ha. and 20 ac./8 ha., respectively.

We propose to increase the site’s greenspace to 81 ac./33 ha., taking up 43% of the site.

92.7% (previous condition)

40%60%

Water: Impervious to Pervious Ratio

92.7% (previous condition)

57%43%

Biodiversity: Adding Greenspace

Metrics | Quantifying Design Decisions


We determine the percentage of buildings kept in the site in order to understand our progress in urban reclamation.

Currently, most of the site is inhabited with ill-maintained industrial structures, under used residential buildings, and underrepresented businesses, which are not utilized to their full potential. There are 99 buildings in our site; 60 are part of the Grossmarkt, 30 are business, and 9 are high density residential. They take up a total of 33 ac./13 ha.

In our master plan, we propose 912,949 ft² of new buildings and 523,323 ft² of reclaimed buildings, signifying that the reclaimed buildings

yield 20% of the new development. In total, we save 37% of our preexisting buildings and re purpose them for new uses; we plan to save several Grossmarkt buildings, one residential building, and one business building.

New building uses for these reclaimed buildings range from retail, event space to recreational. We highlighted the existing layout of the buildings by using the natural sight lines to draw people into the Grossmarkt area, as well as from the park to the plaza space where the buildings are located.

37%

Industrial Reclamation: Percent of Reused Buildings

In order to analyze the advancement and prominence of urban agriculture on the site, we perform a size comparison of urban agriculture space. The size comparison allows us to understand the additional square footage of urban agriculture that we are adding to the site.

Currently, on 4.7% of the land is being utilized as urban agriculture. The applicable vegetation on these allotments includes apples, pears, grapes, peas, lettuce, cabbage, squash, watermelon, potatoes, and tomatoes.

We propose 1 ac. or 1/2 ha. of urban agriculture and 1527 m2 of agriculture in a living wall along the southern wall of the Grossmarkt in our master plan for the site.

Since the once temporary urban agriculture site has become permanent in our master plan,

we expect a growth in production yield due to change in plant density. The site currently allocates 4.7% of its land to urban agriculture, but only roughly 20% of that allotment is actually used for crops and plants. The conceptual master plan instead assigns only .4% of its land to urban agriculture, but 90% of the allotment will serve as urban agriculture, meaning that the space will be utilized much more efficiently.

Although the size of urban agriculture has decreased on the site, its location has become more centralized. The location enhancement is projected to make the site more successful in terms of usage and performance. Furthermore, the “living wall” of agriculture on the south side of the Grossmarkt is expected to bring more attention to the multi-purpose event hall and the area around it.

70% (unused space)

90%

Urban Agriculture: New Permanent Usage

Metrics | Quantifying Design Decisions

30%


The entire area of the greenspace is 81 ac./33 ha., taking up 43% of the site. Our master plan incorporates three versions of greenspace that provides opportunities for various plant species to thrive in the environment: forest, prairie, and lawn. The greenspace constitutes 43% of the site, flowing in free form from west as forest and gradually decreasing in density to lawn at the eastern border with the Rhine River.

Forest:The forest, located on the western side of the greenbelt, takes up about half of the proposed greenbelt addition, its area estimating a total of 34 ac./14 ha. The forest is the densest portion, providing a dense tree line with little visibility apart from a direct view to the Rhine River and the Grossmarkt. Walking and biking trails are available and ample throughout the forested area.

Wildflower Meadow:The prairie, located near the Grossmarkt, takes up 11 ac./4 ha. The prairie features a transition between forest and lawn. It will supply few trees and overgrown grass that gives the area a “natural” aura. The gardens and Grossmarkt wall featuring urban agriculture are both in the prairie.

Green Lawn:The lawn, located on the eastern side of the greenbelt, is 20 ac./8 ha., a features finely groomed landscape for active programming. The forest and prairie open up to the lawn, where the Rhine River can easily be seen. Although certain parts of the space are planned for active programming, pedestrians can walk, bike, and relax in and around the lawn.

Greenspace Allotment


The 50’ streets include four 10’ lanes divided by a 10’ planted buffer zone for increased traffic calming. Paths for pedestrians are located on the edges separated from the street by a tree line.

The 40’ streets include two 10’ lanes, two 4’ parallel parking lanes, and two 6’ sidewalks. Plantings also line the streets and divide parallel parking locations along the street.

All modes of transportation were taken into consideration when creating the final master plan. The master plan shows the existing infrastructure and the proposed inner streets for to increase mobility while enhancing accessibility. The planning efforts show the proposed improvements for the area to accommodate future residential and commercial traffic as well as public needs. Many of the inner streets were added to facilitate access for deliveries and incoming goods into the Grossamarkt and the future shops in the proposed plazas. Some roads were completely eliminated, as they were no longer needed for the proposed development.

Instead, pedestrian boulevards were added to expand walkability opportunities and make the plazas pedestrian friendly. Bicycle movement was also a goal of the master plan. Bicycle paths were integrated along the greenbelt that leads to many desirable destinations, such as the Grossmarkt and the Rhine River. Adequate infrastructure was proposed to expand the service of the subway. Finally, the proposed subway station located on the greenway and Bonner Strasse will attract more people into the area. Roadway connections for automobiles have also been modified to provide greater mobility.

Transportation

U


Sight lines are an important concept in our master plan because we want to ensure that wandering visitors can look around and fully enjoy their surroundings by having a direct line of site to an important and exciting landmark. For example, the preexisting industrial storage units create beautiful sight lines that extend all of the way to the Rhine River. The site lines traverse from northwest to southeast, overlooking the Grossmarkt and the greenway, opening up at the water.

The finely groomed park in the center of the site replicates the lines created by the buildings by offering diagonally crisscrossing pathways that follow the site lines. These pathways offer easy transportation for pedestrians and bikers who prefer scenic views and eye-opening experiences.

The streets pose an interesting contrast, representing the grid-like 19th century street system located south of the site. Although different from the building and pathway direction, the street systems offer a different line of site from west to east and north to south, looking at the Grossmarkt, the greenway, and the Rhine River from different angles.

Sight Lines


Reclaimed Buildings Retention PondsWater Features

Natural Forest

Wildflower Meadows

Urban Agriculture Industrial Apartments Programmed Park

Open Space

Modern Plazas

Picture Examples


Reused Building Program

ROCK CLIMING WALLS

ZIP LINING

ROPES COURSE FACILITY

PAVILION

GROSSMARKT

ROCK CLIMING WALLS

ZIP LINING

ROPES COURSE FACILITY

PAVILION

GROSSMARKT


The first major intersection of the site is on Bonner Strasse and the major train track on the northern border. It includes two lanes of traffic on the road, two large pedestrian sidewalks, and a train platform that hovers above the intersection. On all four corners of the intersection, there are stairwells, escalators, or elevators that allow pedestrians to reach the train platform.

To the north of the intersection are two underground tram terminals that will further allow pedestrians access to the site. These two terminals exist on both sides of Bonner Strasse, thus providing easy transit to and from the site.

Analysis and Feasibility StudyBonnerstrasse Intersection


Parking and Multi-Modal Transportation

Cologne does not explicitly discuss the necessary parking space allotments for their accommodations, but according to the city of Frankfurt’s parking regulations, there must be a total of 10,000 parking spaces in our site.

Approximately 5250 parking spaces are allotted for courtyard parking. Parking will take up about half of the actual courtyard space, while the other half will be allotted to gardening and other communal activities.

About 3500 parking spaces are allocated for underground parking. Two underground parking garages will be built in the site; one parking garage is on the northwest corner, providing easy access from all of Cologne, and the other parking garage is located

directly below the Grobmarkt. The northwest parking garage will provide parking for both the retail and restaurant district and the sports arenas on adjacent to the site. It will hold about 1250 cars. The Grobmarkt’s basement will be restored into a parking garage. It will provide parking for both the greenway and the Grobmarkt. The Grobmarkt parking garage will hold about 2250 cars.About 1000 parking spaces are along the streets. These spaces are for retail and restaurants, the greenway, and the housing allotments.

Finally, approximately 250 parking spaces are allotted for sports, located adjacent to the programmed space.

The multi-modal transportation map displays the different transportation methods running through and around the site.

Certain tracks, such as the tram and train tracks running along the northern and eastern border, are unchanged. However, we propose a new train stop at Bonner Strabe; it will serve as a portal to the site, bringing more people to the surrounding area.

One new bus stop is proposed next to the revitalized retail and restaurant district. This stop will take the bus further into the site, coming from the preexisting bus stop on the eastern side of the site.

Pedestrian routes, labeled in pink, are ample in and around the greenway. Likewise, the bike route, labeled in red, follows the path of the greenway from the sports facilities west of the site, through the Grobmarkt, and all the way to the Rhine River.


Schönhauser Straße and 51 Intersection

Safety for pedestrians and bicyclist is a significant factor when planning and determining the future traffic. For this site plan the exist-ing infrastructure on the intersection of Schönhauser Straße and 51 will be kept. The proposed site designed a diagonal pedestrian pathway to bring people to the existing crossing.

The roads will be stripped in continental style to give priority to pedestrians when crossing. The existing pedestrian island in the intersection will be modified to improve access and attract pedestrians to cross safely. The pedestrian island will be modified with a different type of pavement and ground fill will be added. A well epresented pedestrian crossing with a clear view from all ways is vital to prevent pedestrians from crossing anywhere else. With these improvements to the existing infrastructure pedestrians and bicyclist will be able to cross safely from the greenbelt to the U Tram stop or to the Rhine River and vise versa.

Major RoadU TramPedestrian CrossingPedestrian Island

Major RoadU TramPedestrian CrossingPedestrian Island


Zoning Map and Floor Area Ratio

The zoning map shows the various land uses for the proposed site. The existing site has a significant number of unused buildings in the Grossmarket area. The proposed site saw a potential for reclaiming various buildings from the Grossmarkthalle. The reclaimed buildings will have a new use such as retail shown in red and 4-story mixed-use showed in pink. The Grossmarket (shown in purple) will be turned into a multi-purpose event center with urban agriculture. More reclaimed buildings can be found in the forest. These 2-story buildings will be use for recreational purposes shown in a pale blue. A significant amount of new residential buildings (shown in orange) is also proposed along the northeast and southeast of the site. A few office buildings are also included in the zoning map.

The Grossmarkt area lacks density and the master plan strives for a high dense area. The master plan proposes to extend the greenbelt, more retail, residential, and mixed use, and less industrial. Based on the master plan the total Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of the proposed development is .78/1. The FAR seems as a reasonable number since the residential buildings are 4-stories and the mixed-use as well. The residential apartments in the north subzone has a higher FAR of 1.9/1 as oppose to the south subzone, which has a FAR of 1.6/1. The reclaimed buildings have a total FAR of 1.2/1. The higher the FAR the denser the development is and that can be seen in the north subarea of the site.

1.6/1

1.2/1

1.9/1

Mixed-UseRetailRecreationalMulti-Purpose Event CenterResidentialOfficeOpen SpaceForest


Site DesignThe New Grossmarkthalle Site

Located within the selected boundary lies a very important aspect of the Grossmarkt master plan. This site will incorporate retail, restaurant, and residential, making it the economic hub for the area. A highly unique experience is created by using the industrial buildings saved from the existing site and combining them with new, architectural and geometric elements. This modern urban space highlights the historical Rhine River located only within a few minutes walking distance away.


Subtitle


Subtitle

Warm bleibenAUF DIE NEU GROSSMARKT


Subtitle

Liebe fidenAUF DIE NEU GROSSMARKT


Subtitle

LebenAUF DIE NEU GROSSMARKT


The Braided River Concept

MIXED USE

INDUSTRIAL REUSE

INDUSTRIAL REUSE

INDUSTRIAL REUSE

INDUSTRIAL REUSE

INDUSTRIAL REUSE

INDUSTRIAL REUSE

MIXED USE

INDUSTRIAL REUSE

RIVER STARTING POINT BRAIDED RIVER COLORED BENCHESBIRCH TREE POCKETS

BIRCH TREE ALLEES

SPLASH PAD

RETAIL CORRIDOR

DESIGN INSPIRATION

BRAIDED RIVER

TREE TRUNKS

400’0’


Natural River Concept

Located on the northwest corner of the site is the start of the braided river water feature that runs throughout the area. This concept was conceived by examining the distinction between nature and the built environment. Taking natural forms and creating a geometric pattern highlights the idea of human control over nature. From beginning to end, the river is meant to tell the story of pre-existing conditions along the Rhine River. Braided channels deposited silt along inside banks allowing for vegetative growth while oppositely depositing debris along the outer banks. The birch tree plantings and brightly colored benches depict these historical processes.


Year-round Appeal

Season appeal is very important for the economic viability of any development. Germany can have very harsh winters, but with tall building structure and reflective surfaces, the design creates habitable micro climates year-round. Additionally, the braided river feature allows for a lengthy ice skating rink during cold months. This capitalizes on the human fascination with whimsicality and fantasy during the winter months.


Views to the Großmarkthalle

The major building that is being preserved on the master plan is the Grossmarkthalle, seen here in very back of the image. This active area provides ample space for relaxing, people watching, eating, playing and shopping. The braided river islands are able to be climbed on and provide individual experiences to each user.


Site Materials

BRAIDED RIVER ISLANDS BENCHES

BIRCH TREE POCKETS GRAY COBBLESTONE


River Section

42’/ 13m Pedestrian Walkway

20’/ 6m Birch Forest

27’/ 8m River

52’/ 16m Pedestrian Walkway


Site Design: Grossmarkthalle Plaza

The GrossMarkt is located in the center of the new greenway to the Rhine. The GrossMarkt was chosen to be an event center in which large groups of people could attend. Ecents like concerts and public speeches would take place at the GrossMarkt. The surrounding plaza is large enough to let large crowds walk around and relax before and after an event. During event days and non-event days, people are free to walk around and enjoy the area. The surrounding plazas are used for enjoying the day. The areas around the GrossMarkt include cafes, a trellis garden, and a programmed fountain.


Grossmarkthalle Plaza



The areas around the GrossMarkt provide easy circulation for people. The main boulevard passes along side of the GrossMarkt allowing people to pass along the site easily and quickly. As people arive at the site through the boule-vard, they are invited to walk through the differ-ent areas and experience their attractions.

Through the areas of the GrossMarkt, people can go through a unique experience. Mimick-ing the design of the overall sight of the green-way connection, the GrossMarkt Plaza design allows sight lines to dominate the area. People are able to see and walk along these sight lines . These lines provide a comfortable program and atmosphere to the area while creating a unique experience of being in a forest-like set-ting.

CIRCULATION SITE LINES


Sections

A’ B

B’

C C’

B

C’C

A A’

B’

CAFE BOULEVARD

GREEN WALL/ TRELLIS GARDEN

ENTRYWAY/MAIN GROSSMARKT PLAZA


Grossmarkthalle Plaza: Entry Way

The entryway to the GrossMarkt Plaza is one which eximplifies the GrossMarkt itself. It is lo-cated along the boulevard which connects the greenway to the Rhine. In this way, people have to see and experience the GrossMarkt and its attractions located in front of it; a pro-grammed fountain. Leading the eye to a large fountain are huge ligted columns. This fountain exemplifies the GrossMarkt and attracts people to experience the plazas and areas around the GrossMarkt itself.


Grossmarkthalle Plaza: Fountain

The fountain is programmed to have shows for people to enjoy. Through the day, the fountain will be flowing naturally for people to enjoy. Starting at dusk through certain seasons and days, the fountain will allow people to enjoy lighted shows with music. This attraction will allow people to enjoy the site both during the day and at night. It will attract people to the GrossMarkt throughout the year.


Grossmarkthalle Plaza: Trellis Plaza

The Trellis Garden is a plaza which people can enjoy the day. These long, metal trellices are located along the sight lines of the GrossMarkt area itselt. These trellises allow people to sit underneath plants which provide shade to the area underneath. While people are in the pla-za, they are able to enjoy the green roof which encoumpasses half the GrossMarkt. This roof is an appeasing visual for people to enjoy as they sit or walk through the area.

The Koln Konzept

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