2637 Open Space Concept Romanshorn

Location:
Romanshorn, Switzerland

Project Type:
Green and Open Space Concept

Project Period:
2024–2025

Client:
Municipality of Romanshorn

Planning Team:
Studio Vulkan, Zimraum – Space & Society

Photography:
Studio Vulkan

Details:

• [masterplan]
• [open space concept]
• [urban development]
• [Vulkan Urban]

From Grey Infrastructure to Green Urban Landscape

The green and open space concept for Romanshorn is a forward-looking strategic plan that reimagines the development and use of public spaces beyond conventional open space planning. It serves as an integrative coordination tool across municipal departments – such as civil engineering, transport, environmental affairs, and building construction – as well as with social stakeholders, aiming to promote a livable, climate-resilient, and socially inclusive urban environment.

A comprehensive analysis revealed that the potential of public spaces in several parts of the city is either underutilized or not yet fully realized. These findings informed the development of a spatial portfolio outlining concrete measures for improving these areas – tailored to specific local uses and spatial conditions.

At the core of the concept are guiding principles for different street typologies, which define spatial elements and vegetation strategies based on location, function, and urban context. A particular focus lies on the transformation of traffic and parking areas into diverse and high-quality open spaces. In this context, projects such as Bahnhofstrasse and Bahnhofplatz are being further developed to significantly enhance the quality of public space.

Implementation is taking place in phases and includes climate-adapted planting schemes, the introduction of traffic-calmed zones, and the creation of new green urban spaces. A key objective is the improvement of microclimatic conditions – achieved through the reduction of sealed surfaces, the use of permeable pavements, and the integration of water-retaining “climate concrete blocks.” These elements not only support stormwater infiltration and reduce flood risks, but also contribute to local cooling through increased evaporation – an important step toward urban climate adaptation.