Green is part of it.
Right from the start.

Industrial areas and green spaces—these two elements have rarely coexisted in practice, as sealed surfaces usually dominate. The design of the Areal Nord deliberately places a high priority on flora and fauna. Here, open space is not a byproduct, but a standalone, carefully planned element—developed by FWI and designconcepts, and designed by freisign Landscape Architects of Freiburg. The result is an area with a high quality of outdoor living.

The master plan for the North Area lays the groundwork for this by consolidating space-intensive parking into a central neighborhood garage, thereby creating space for climate-relevant green areas. This structural densification makes it possible to leave certain areas undeveloped and use them as compensation, retention, and recreational spaces. Density and greenery are therefore not mutually exclusive.

At the heart of the project is the so-called "Green Center"—a central open space that serves as a drainage area, habitat, recreational zone, and climate buffer. Visitors walk along paths made from recycled concrete rubble, past wild hedges and a water basin that becomes a watering hole for animals when it rains. A viewing platform offers a view of the greenery without disturbing nature. Railings protect particularly vulnerable animal species from excessive human proximity. A second lizard habitat in the northern part of the site complements the nature and species conservation strategy.

The streets within the site are also consistently landscaped: Since there are no designated parking bays along the roadside, space remains for accompanying green corridors of mixed tree plantings; wild hedges mark the transition to private properties. Small spots with benches and chairs—dubbed “Green Breaks”—invite visitors to pause for a moment. A public plaza featuring a food truck, outdoor fitness equipment, and a water feature will enrich the Mobility Hub.

The furnishings throughout the site, meticulously planned by freisign and designconcepts, feature products from the Norwegian manufacturer Vestre. They are made of fossil-free steel and solid wood. The color scheme—comprising yellow, orange, pink, and teal—for the furniture and wayfinding system blends nature and design.

Climate resilience was a key consideration in the planning. Intensively landscaped infiltration areas and access zones designed according to the sponge city principle ensure a nature-based use of rainwater. An AI-supported irrigation system optimizes the water supply to the trees. Green roofs and facades naturally cool the buildings.