The old depot of the VBK Verkehrsbetriebe der Stadt Karlsruhe is being transformed into an outwardly present, yet differentiated ensemble of buildings along Durlacher Allee.
The upgrading measures on Durlacher Allee promise an attractive address for the new service and residential buildings, which create differentiated urban spaces through their rhythm and staggered height. Two staggered buildings and a bridge structure form the clear edges for the new "Betriebshof" quarter. The buildings shield the inner area from the emissions of Durlacher Allee and Tullastraße. So that a new mixed area of living and working can be created there. The required eaves height of 18m is maintained along Durlacher Allee and Tullastraße, so that a respectful interaction with the neighbouring buildings is created.
The high points of the ensemble are placed in the second row and adapt in height to the EnBW building. This elevation allows a gross floor area of 31000m² to be realized. The available land is thus exploited to the maximum extent economically and yet hamonized in terms of urban development. Two openings in the ensemble provide the necessary permeability in a south-north direction. An open space on the eastern edge of the property leads the public green corridor from Otto-Dullenkopf-Park into the urban development and at the same time offers enough space for the necessary cold air. Extensive greenery on the roofs and a green inner courtyard adiabatically control the urban climate. In an east-west direction, the bridge construction creates a pedestrian connection from the residential development of the Oststadt to the new "Betriebshof" district square. At the same time, the building serves as a showcase for the VBK's exhibition vehicles. The new neighbourhood square will be kept free of any traffic use.
[...]
Source: Sacker Architekten
Photos: Faruk Pinjo
