December 13, 2025
6201 University Campus Stuttgart
6201 University Campus Stuttgart
Location:
Stuttgart Vaihingen, Germany
Realisation:
Planned by 2035
Client:
Stuttgart University Building Authority
Landscape architecture:
Studio Vulkan in collaboration with von K Landschaftsarchitektur
Details:
Laid out between 1950 and 1975 as an educational city in the countryside, the character of the University of Stuttgart in Vaihingen is shaped not only by the trees that define the space, but also by numerous sculptures and works of art in the open space and an expressive paving language. When compared with current requirements for contemporary open spaces, challenges and problems become apparent today. Barrier-free access routes, visibility, easy orientation and sustainable approaches to rainwater management are not evident in the existing open space structure.
With a benevolent view of the expressive design of the campus and its sometimes bizarre elements in the existing structure, and with courageous measures to remedy important deficits in the open space, the open space structure is being refined:
The past of the area is part of its future
The measures in the open space are based on the basic ideas of the original layout. Instead of imposing a new identity on the campus, existing qualities are being brought to the fore. Trees, paving structures and works of art are being preserved or integrated into the redesigned open space as spolia.
A legible open space framework as a clear spatial structure
Within the multitude of different buildings, the open space forms the supporting framework of the campus. Its clear conciseness contributes significantly to the identity and functionality of the university and forms the basis for a wide range of future developments. Based on the existing buildings and new requirements, the space is divided into different areas with different atmospheres and functions, including the park ring, the university market, the centre, the promenade and the boulevards.
Strengthening permeability and accessibility
Clear access to the individual spaces is a prerequisite for the future of the city of knowledge. With clear hierarchies and uninterrupted pathways, the contribution creates a pathway system with a consistently high quality of movement and stay. A network of footpaths with gentle, barrier-free gradients connects the most important campus locations and meets a wide range of needs.
A blue-green infrastructure for high biodiversity and heat mitigation
The management of rainwater is a central component of the concept. Rainwater drainage is designed to be simple, accessible and visible. Paved areas are reduced and designed to allow for infiltration. Rainwater from the streets is collected in a rainwater cascade and infiltrated locally. In the central open space of the university market, rainwater is directed to green areas and tree trenches for infiltration.