New construction housing: Green building for new ideas

The self-proclaimed garden city is innovative, modern and ahead of classical urban planning, because it incorporates the environment and local conditions and integrates them into the cityscape. You can find out here how the north of Cologne is to be strengthened by Kreuzfeld and what special features the district brings with it.

The new district is to be built in the Chorweiler borough, adjacent to the Blumenberg borough to the north:

Cross field at a glance + location

First the key figures:

• Location: Cologne
• District: Chorweiler
• Size: 80 ha (Comp. soccer field approx. 0.7 ha)
• Population: 8,000

Project and planning time:

• Planning: 2021-2022
• Plan / Landscape: ADEPT + Karres en Brands
• Consulting: Metabolic, Argus

Urban development project of the city of Cologne

Kreuzfeld, or WoodHood is the result of a new urban development project of the city of Cologne. The ambitious 80-hectare project was penned by the planning team led by ADEPT and Karres en Brands (Plan and Landscape) in collaboration with Argus (Mobility) and Metabolic (Energy).

Mayor Henriette Reker convinced

Their project design for a green city convinced the committees as well as Mayor Henriette Reker and is now to be implemented. Wood Hood is more than a classic garden city. According to the developers, the new district requires a new approach to planning, rethinking the connection between city and nature, landscape.

Green urban development: “Back to nature”.

Instead of defining the new urban structure through buildings, streets and technology, WoodHood’s urban layout builds on the landscape, surrounding forests, use of water, play with the sun, planting and local conditions. True to the motto: Back to Nature! For many who want to live close to nature while enjoying the benefits of the city, perhaps a reason to move to Cologne.

Martin Laursen (partner of ADEPT): “The whole process of developing the new district in Cologne-Kreuzfeld, WoodHood, was carried out with a view to the future and in dialogue with numerous local stakeholders (…).”

She goes on to say:

“WoodHood is a new kind of city that focuses on collective communities in close relationship with nature.”

Goal: Jobs, open spaces

The goals of the new district are clear: Strengthen the north of Cologne! Numerous new residential units for up to 8,000 residents are to be created on a total of 80 hectares. In addition to new jobs, the focus will be on multiple-use open spaces, social, cultural and educational facilities.

Structure, hoods, use of space

WoodHood is not intended to be just an extension of the existing city, but a neighborhood in its own right that is adjacent to the others through innovation, sustainability, and village-like community. The district consists of 5 individual hoods, each with its own character and individual function. The main focus is to promote community and collective and shared functions, with the goal of minimizing private space and strengthening the quality and use of public spaces. WoodHood will provide versatile opportunities for activities and recreation.

Climate protection & infrastructure with water storage

In addition to social coexistence, Cologne Kreuzfeld promotes climate protection, ecology and water storage through open green spaces and a complex ecosystem. The infrastructure and mobility network is also more differentiated and makes the use of bicycles and walking more attractive.

Henriette Reker (Mayor of Cologne): “The selected design is in line with our great ambitions and high standards, because we want to launch a particularly innovative, sustainable and multi-layered urban development and open space concept.”

Further, she said stressed:

“(…) We also place high demands on the topics of environmental compatibility, energy efficiency and sustainability.”

Tip. How to create a neighborhood in Berlin Schöneberg

The Bricks in Berlin Schöneberg is one of the flagships of the renowned Berlin architectural firm Graft, as you can also read in our interview with the architects: Residential Real Estate Graft. What was and is particularly exciting about this project is the aspect of historic preservation and revitalization. The aim here was not a pure new building, but the upgrading and preservation of a former post office site.

• Quartier Berlin Schöneberg

Schwabing: Chic district with park & historic villas

Munich Schwabing is probably one of the best known districts of the big city. It is a chic district that tends to be considered a more exclusive residential area. Especially Schwabing- Freimann is known for exclusive fashion, jewelry and traditional costume boutiques, as well as gourmet restaurants and numerous wine bars. Schwabing is also home to the beautiful English Garden, which invites you to linger and stroll. The district is particularly charming due to its numerous Art Nouveau buildings – which are typical for Munich. In addition, the Isar also flows through this district and thus beautifies the cityscape of the quarter. Schwabing is known as the bohemian quarter and is one of Munich’s most populous districts.

Parks, English Garden & Old Building Apartments

Munich Schwabing is without a doubt one of the more expensive areas of Munich, but it also has a lot to offer. Restaurants and cafés, as well as bars and shops are plentiful, and the proximity to the Isar and the English Garden make Schwabing particularly attractive. Many well-preserved art nouveau mansions offer apartments in old buildings with high ceilings and stucco. The district is also popular with artists and students, who are happy to pay a euro more rent for the charming ambience.

Key figures:

• Population: over 100,000
• Area: 25,6 km²
• Population density: approx. 4,700 inhabitants/km²

Altstadt-Lehel: old town flair and central location with shopping possibilities

Altstadt-Lehel is the first and at the same time the most central district of Munich. It is made up of the districts Altstadt and Lehel, whose residents still do not feel that they belong to each other, despite the merging of the districts. The Altstadt is an absolute highlight, especially for tourists, with many sights, shops and gastronomy. Lehel, on the other hand, is more of a typical, Munich residential district with many apartment buildings and flats. Besides the central location, the highlight is the daily (on weekdays) Viktualienmarkt, for which Munich is known far beyond the city limits and is considered a fixed institution. If you like it central and have no problem with hustle and bustle, Munich Altstadt-Lehel is exactly the right address.

City centre and Viktualienmarkt

If you live here, you don’t need a car or a bike for daily errands and activities. Here you are absolutely in the heart of the city and are well provided for in terms of entertainment: restaurants, cafés, bars, clubs and beer gardens, shops and shopping opportunities can be found here. The charm of Munich’s old town and historic city centre is unique, but you have to be prepared every day for tourists and visitors exploring the legendary city.

Key figures:

• Population: 21,126
• Area: 3,14 km²
• Population density: 6,716 inhabitants/km²

Pasing-Obermenzing: Regional markets and green city parks

The district of Pasing-Obermenzing is located in the west of Munich. Over 60,000 inhabitants live in this part of the Bavarian capital. The Pasinger Stadtpark invites you to take a leisurely stroll and Pasing-Obermenzing is particularly popular for its markets. The district is considered lively and has several restaurants and small boutiques, as well as its own shopping center, the Pasing-Arcaden. There is also the Pasing Cultural Center, which was built in a former industrial plant. In addition to rather nondescript residential buildings, you will also come across elegant villas in the quieter residential streets.

Large weekly markets: Pasing Viktualienmarkt

Pasing and Obermenzing are especially known for their lush and well-stocked weekly markets. Here you can buy mainly regional and fresh products from the producer, perfect for anyone who wants to eat sustainably and consciously. But you don’t have to be a foodie, a stroll through the colourful and fragrant stalls of the traders is also worth the visit. The Pasinger Viktualienmarkt, for example, is held regularly next to the town hall.

Key figures

• Population: 76,498
• Area: 16,5 km²
• Population density: 4,637 inhabitants/km²

Glockenbachviertel: Old buildings, Gärtnerplatz and party scene

With its well-maintained old buildings, the Glockenbachviertel is one of Munich’s most attractive residential districts. The neighbourhood borders Ludwig- and Isarvorstadt and the centrepiece is definitely Gärtnerplatz. The Isar can be reached quickly from here and on its banks you can sunbathe and relax at length. Around Gärtnerplatz you can find many shops and businesses, as well as restaurants and cafés that invite you to linger. Munich’s party people also get their money’s worth here, as there are various bars and clubs: partying is a big thing here. In this context, the Glockenbachviertel is also known especially for the gay scene.

Gärtnerplatz: Restaurants, Café & Clubs

The Glockenbachviertel is especially popular with young and party-loving Munich residents and visitors. The nightlife here is dynamic and colorful and invites you to escape from everyday life and just have fun. So this neighborhood is less suitable for families or people looking for a quiet retreat. Young people such as students, or couples and singles are in particularly good hands here.

Key figures:

• Population: 12,199
• Area: approx. 1 km²
• Population density: 12,199 inhabitants/km²

Westend/ Schwanthalerhöhe: Upcoming district for students and young families

The Westend or Schwanthalerhöhe is considered an up-and-coming district in Munich. The district is especially known for its unconventional artistic community. Kebab stands can be found here as well as cosy bars and restaurants with international cuisine such as Thai or Japanese. Small designer shops have also settled here in the meantime. Culturally, the Westend has a lot to offer, including fancy little theaters where you can experience something every day. Here is also the towering statue of the Bavaria, which offers a wide view over the Bavariapark. In addition, the traffic center of the German Museum in the exhibition hall of 1908 is also located here, which is worth a visit.

Up-and-coming artists’ quarter with theatres and art galeries

The Westend/ Schwanthalerhöhe is an insider tip among Munich’s districts. The alternative artist scene of the big city cavorts here, making the district an exciting and atmospheric part of town where you can always experience something. The district is – unlike the city centre – not overcrowded and you can immerse yourself in the world of the arts without having to leave the city. This neighbourhood is perfect for the adventurous and those interested in culture.

Key figures:

• Population: 29,611
• Area: 2,07 km²
• Population density: 14,303 inhabitants/km²

Maxvorstadt: district for students & proximity to the university

The Maxvorstadt in Munich is also called the university quarter and is one of the most vibrant parts of Munich. The cityscape is characterized by some architectural highlights like the museums and the Königsplatz. This flair is mixed with university feeling and several cafés, restaurants and smaller clubs. Maxvorstadt is home to the city’s most important museums as well as three large universities. Here students meet academics and art lovers. On the roof terrace of the Technical University, for example, you have a great view over Munich and the Pinakothek – in good weather even to the Alps.

University district for students and young people

Maxvorstadt is particularly popular with students due to its close proximity to colleges and universities. Since they primarily settle here, they also lower the average age of the residents and promote the nightlife and gastronomy. Therefore, many restaurants, bars and small clubs can be found here. If you are studying in Munich or feel like taking part in student life, Maxvorstadt is the perfect place to be.

Key figures:

• Population: 4.29 km²
• Area: 4,3 km²
• Population density: 12,060 inhabitants/km²

The highlights of Slovenia

Romantic moments in Bled

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This sweet and romantic village, just in the north of the country, is characterized by its beautiful alpine lake. But not only that, in the middle of the lake there is a small island with a church. The village is very small and manageable, but that’s exactly what it is. Everyone in this place simply enjoys the lake with the beautiful church in the middle of the island. Take a stroll and then have dinner in one of the sweet restaurants and the day is perfect.

Absolute nature at Bohinj Lake

Not far from Bled is Lake Bohinj. Unlike Lake Bled, this lake is crystal clear and surrounded by the Julian Alps. Once in the cold water you don’t really want to go out anymore, the lake is so fresh and pure.
But not only swimming in the lake is a popular activity in Bohinj, it is also very worthwhile to unpack your hiking boots and explore the nature, respectively the Triglav National Park.

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Ljubljana: The beautiful capital of Slovenia

Don’t forget anything on a trip to Slovenia: Ljubljana.
Slovenia’s capital is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. A small and sweet city, with small streets, canals and bridges where the eye reaches. Just pure romance.
At every corner you will find cute cafés or restaurants and beautiful, modern shops. In Ljubljana you can walk through the city without a plan and simply enjoy the ambience, drink a glass of wine and explore the student quarter. But one does not need to plan many days for this, Ljubljana is manageable and after a day trip one already knows best about it. Important for campers: Here, it is best to book a hotel or an AirBnb apartment. The prices in Slovenia are very reasonable and especially for short stays it is worthwhile to start directly from the centre.

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Discover the caves of Škocjan

There are several caves in Slovenia that can be visited. My favourite are the Škocjan Caves. Since 1986 these have also been UNESCO World Heritage Sites and attract almost 100,000 visitors annually. Reason: The Cerkvenik Bridge over the Canyon. The biggest Europe and third biggest in the world! The cave also has some stalactites to offer.

Small but fine: the coast of Slovenia

From the cave you can immediately continue to the coast of Slovenia. This one is small and there are only three cities: Koper, Piran and Izola.

Koper

Koper is the largest city on the Slovenian coast and is only 10 kilometres from the border with Italy. This can be seen not only in the bilingual street signs and the like, but also in the design of the old town. The picturesque little alleys often remind one of small coastal towns in Italy. In Koper there is the biggest port of Slovenia, and every year there is a jazz festival, “MareziJazz”. For 13 years musicians from all over Europe have come for the musical experience.

Piran

Piran is unique with its small and winding streets in the Venetian style. The village is largely car-free and can therefore best be explored on foot. This place is a must for all Slovenia travellers. The sweet old town attracts tourists every year, but is not overcrowded.

You won’t find a sandy beach in Slovenia, but on hot summer days people only romp around at Piran’s headland. Colourful towels and air mattresses wherever you look – right next to the pedestrian zone. In July the Piraner music evenings are particularly popular. Every Thursday in July, soloists and chamber music ensembles perform in the Minorite Monastery. In general, the city comes alive in summer: the Summer Festival and the Tartini Festival are just two of Piran’s top summer events.

Izola

Izola is located directly between Piran and Koper, so it is a good idea to stay in this small town to get to know the three coastal towns best. It’s more quiet here. A stroll through the old town, a view of the harbour – there is not much more here. Nevertheless, Izola is definitely worth a visit. The fishermen can still be watched at the harbour and especially the water sports attract the people to Izola.

National Park Triglav

At 2,846 metres, Triglav is the largest mountain in Slovenia. Even the Slovenian 50-cent coins depict the peak of Triglav, but Narional Park has so much more to offer. Particularly impressive: the Soca, which stretches through the Julian Alps. A river you can’t imagine turquoise, therefore untouched nature far and wide. A true paradise for fishermen and hikers. The Valley of the Soca has so much to offer: Peace and relaxation with waterfalls, mountains, tributaries, gorges and troughs. But the valley is particularly famous for activities such as hiking, cycling and water sports. Rafting, kayaking, canyoning, fishing, fly-fishing and even winter sports can be practised here.

For those who are not so keen on sports: just grab your bike and explore the area, in the Triglav National Park there is really something to see and discover everywhere.

Very recommendable: with a cable car you can reach the top of the mountain. In good weather you have a beautiful view of the valley, but beware: in bad weather you prefer to stay down because you can’t see through the clouds.

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