LAND Germany competition design for Schillerplatz in Iserlohn, section

Schillerplatz, Iserlohn

Germany

The Schillerplatz is the central location for the weekly market and urban events in the city of Iserlohn. Simultaneously, it serves as a playground and gathering place, playing a crucial role as a link between the pedestrian zone and the town hall.

The Schillerplatz is the central location for the weekly market and urban events in the city of Iserlohn. Simultaneously, it serves as a playground and gathering place, playing a crucial role as a link between the pedestrian zone and the town hall.

By implementing a uniform pavement, the Schillerplatz will be perceived as a cohesive space once again. This creates a seamless environment, maintaining necessary accessibility through simplified topography.

Together with the existing historical fountain, ‘Lebensfreude,’ a new focal point for the city center is established. A designated central area is clearly defined outside pedestrian paths, creating a multifunctional space suitable for communication, play, or social gatherings.

Additionally, a green inlet located centrally offers a tree-shaded lawn area. The gently sloped inlet is functionally integrated to harmonize with the plaza’s topography. Varied elevations are addressed through stairs and barrier-free access to the Schillerplatz and surrounding buildings. The integration of new green elements serves to break up the heavily sealed area, reintroducing nature into the city.

Rainwater is harvested on-site for plant use, with excess stored and gradually released into the sewer system.

The purchase of the Karstadt property in 2014 by the city of Iserlohn marked the start of the development of this challenging inner-city development. The dismantling of the previous and outdated facilities allowed to rethink this area with a high quality of stay and relaxation and a colourful mix of working, living, shopping and public uses such as a city media library, multifunctional citizens’ hall, citizens’ office and much more.

The possible design of the outdoor areas was officially presented for the first time in April 2023, together with the urban use concept (adopted already in 2022). It evolves around the role of green open space in improving the quality of stay and the urban climate.

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