Am Schlaatz - Potsdam, Germany
In 2021, the city of Potsdam hosted a competition to solicit redevelopment concepts for a district in the south east of the city called Am Schlaatz. The district is comprised of mostly prefabricated housing blocks assembled in the 1980’s. Generally of uniform density and housing type, it is the youngest district in the city, with the highest proportion of low-income households, recent immigrants and groups at high risk of poverty. The district has several key strengths however which competition organizers see as an opportunity for growth. Namely, the district is well connected through public transit, has access to natural areas, and by nature of the initial master plan, a high percentage of open green space. Maximizing the impact of these strengths was our core focus.
Urban Identity - Create a more clear urban identity by strengthening the existing Lange Line promenade through shifting density to this area, consolidating transit in this zone, and introducing flexible commercial spaces to punctuate each block and vary the urban street wall.
Interconnected Natural Space - Maintain the potential for high-quality courtyards and nature by maintaining existing building footprints to the greatest extent possible regardless of demolition or renovation. Connect those courtyards to create a semi-public green ring allowing all residents connection to ample natural space.
Improve Housing Options - Create a broad variety of housing typologies and sizes to support a range of individuals, couples and families across all ages and demographics. We proposed adding new units on top of existing buildings along the Lange Line, and town house units in the semi-private courtyards.
Strengthen Connectivity - Further strengthen the districts ties to the central city through better mobility connections, including extending the tram line through the district, and expanding the existing Nuthe bike trail to incorporate a future autonomous bus route.