The basic idea 

In the concept, the new grounds are integrated into the surrounding structures, offering residents and neighbors possible ways to connect and places to spend their time. The proportions of urban and public spaces vary within the Quarter, but all areas are unified within a coherent overall concept. Kirsten Schomakers, an architect at Agence Ter.de GmbH Landschaftsarchitekten, played a key role in developing the concept for the new residential district's open spaces. 

She explains the idea thus:

Integration into the environment is achieved through three elements of open spaces which differ in their spatial effect but all open up eastwards toward the green Rainberg, which directly abuts the Quarter on that side. This creates balance between urbanity, nature and the different needs of residents and direct neighbors. The three landscape passages are:

Urban entrance area to the north

the topographical green zone

the southern entrance area

Urban entrance area to the north

The Kattundruckerplatz plaza, in an urban design, is located at the northern entrance. In addition to a public transport stop, this area features a Biedermeier-style villa that was used as a kindergarten until construction began. (which relocated to a new building on the grounds) The plaza also functions as a forecourt and reception zone for usage by the office and small business tenants there. The design elements on the Kattundruckerplatz are inspired by the craftsmanship of cotton printers. The plaza is divided up by pleasant-smelling american yellowwood trees, planted in groups. These trees yield a textile dye, reminding of the time when a cotton printing works was located in the area adjacent.

 

Topographical green zone and southern entrance area

A large greenspace in the middle of the grounds is a good spot for public gatherings and leisure time. This open area begins in an urban setting at the western entrance to Moosstrasse with a kindergarten and community building and extends to the Leopoldskronstrasse at the eastern end.

The area at the noise barrier is modeled as a place for people to spend time, and for sledding in winter. A small lookout platform affords a view of the Rainberg and out over the new Quarter. The southernmost cluster opens up to the south, at the intersection of the neighboring streets. Single trees of various kinds punctuate the plaza. By the clinker brick building, re-purposed for cultural usage, the plaza connects to the entrance area of the new cultural center.

A little color makes quite a difference

The new residential and office buildings on the site are grouped into clusters of three buildings. This is achieved through semi-private courtyard terraces that stand out from the rest of the park-like landscape through a minor difference in level, but the greenery concept also contributes to the effect. In each cluster, the exterior facades and greenery are color-coordinated to yield an aesthetic balance of warm and cool tones. The courtyard terrace of each cluster in combination with the greenery and exterior facades thus creates a unique atmosphere that will change throughout the seasons. To visually relativize the size of the residential buildings, plans provide for fruit trees of appropriate colors, including cherry, apple, pear and medlar. This organization into colored clusters also provides orientation on one's way through the Quarter.

A view of the Salzburg Riedenburg residential quarter, opened in September 2018

A path runs through the Quarter from north to south that takes pedestrians through the open greenspaces, connects buildings, and creates inviting places for spending time and entrance areas. Instead of a straight course the path meanders and winds its way through the grounds, providing access to all public areas. The apartments and court terraces are slightly elevated, allowing a view into the varied outdoor area with diverse usages and greenery.

How can landscape architecture be made more sustainable?

Kirsten Schomakers knows answers to this question. For using indigenous trees and plants and materials supplied from nearby sources makes for public areas that are robust and timeless. Schomakers emphasizes the importance of greenspaces:

You can read more about the drainage challenges in the Riedenburg Quarter here.

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