The park is centrally located in Geisenheim's town center and previously functioned more as a bypath than as a place to relax. Geisenheim's residents participated in the process of redesigning the park, requesting more recreational areas and a general upgrade of the site.
The design concept for the small park was developed at an international summer school organized by the Karl Foerster Stiftung and hosted at Hochschule Geisenheim University. The redesign was put into motion as part of the Green Geisenheim project and benefited from funding by the Zukunft Stadtgrün program, which supports the development of urban green infrastructure.
The soil in the old park had become compacted due to heavy footfall. Redesigning the paths and planted areas has helped fix the soil, allowing rainwater to drain properly. The majority of the rainwater now flows through gravel surfaces to the plant beds, where it is then taken up by plants. A small seating area among the greenery has been added to fulfil the residents' express wish for a pleasant spot to spend their lunch breaks. Individuals and groups can make good use the spacious lounge furniture and picnic table. Benches lining the main path also offer additional seating.
Even before it was realized, the project won the 2023 Hessischen Landespreis Baukultur award. This prize is awarded to projects that adapt urban open spaces to manage the impact of climate change, improve the sustainability of town centers and boost quality of life for residents.
To learn more, please visit the Green Geisenheim project page.
