On the Schmelz, the project “Recreation and Exercise on the Schmelz” has created a new public open space. As the title suggests, the focus is on sports use, which is set out in the zoning for this site. The goal was to create a long-awaited open space with a high proportion of greenery for the broadest possible range of users while respecting this zoning. The new open space opens up toward the existing public path and the playground opposite. An alternative route guides visitors and passers-by through the park. The north-south orientation is complemented by a division into different zones of use.
The northern area is dedicated to spending time. A large wooden grandstand with a pergola forms a central meeting point and anchor, offering a view over the entire park and catching the evening sun. A plaza-like widening in front of it provides space for larger groups and informal events. The adjacent open lawn is designed for flexible use and equipped with low-threshold balancing elements.
The central area is mainly used for sports. In addition to fitness stations for different muscle groups, there is a calisthenics facility and table tennis tables. At the central entrance, a pergola with a drinking fountain invites people to pause and catch their breath during training.
The southern area is quieter and greener. At its center is a flexible lawn for a wide range of sports, as well as a slackline and a pétanque court under shade trees.
The edges are designed as green buffers with perennials and shrubs and embed the new open space in a green frame. More than 30 new trees, both standard and multi-stemmed, are planted to provide sufficient shade and a pleasantly cool microclimate.
