Pfinztal, with approximately 18,600 residents, is the most populous municipality in Baden-Württemberg without town status. In 1974, four originally independent villages were merged into a single municipal association. Pfinztal has several village centers, architectural heritage from Friedrich Weinbrenner, and a diverse landscape. The municipality is characterized by surrounding forests, meadows, orchards, vineyards, and the river Pfinz. At the same time, the nearby city of Karlsruhe lies only a few kilometers away, which brings not only advantages but also an outflow of purchasing power. The municipality is facing challenges, including vacant properties and an increasing demand for housing. In addition, there are various transport-related issues.
Against this background, urban design proposals are to be developed for the future
development of the municipality. How can the village centers of each individual district be
strengthened while also reinforcing Pfinztal’s identity as a unified municipality? Which uses
can promote economic development? The aim of the studio is to develop an overarching concept that functionally and spatially connects the four districts. The enhancement of public spaces and the overcoming of spatial barriers should be at the core of a comprehensive concept that integrates mobility, climate protection, and social cohesion, and repositions Pfinztal as a liveable, climate-resilient integrated municipality.
Teaching Staff:
Prof. Dr. Barbara Engel, KIT
Iman Baratvakili, KIT
Dr. Nadiia Dmytrik, OSACEA
Susanna Böcherer, KIT
Margarita Völlmer, KIT
