The new development at Riedlinger Tor aims to reorganise and revitalise the currently unused and neglected plots of land and provide new housing close to the town centre. In this, from an urban planning point of view, sensitive situation, how can a new development be created that not only sensitively fits into the historical context but also redefines the important gate situation at the entrance to the town? We propose a small-scale development along Kreuzstrasse with a distinctive head building facing Hauptstrasse. The head building extends into Hauptstrasse, creating a gate situation together with the opposite buildings. The sculptural design of the building with its folded roof defines a high point towards St. Martin’s Church, referencing the historical five-storey gate tower.
The utilisation concept aims to enhance and enrich the old town at this important location with special forms of housing, while minimising interference with the archaeological monument of the Stadtgraben (moat). This is achieved through two types of uses that require very little parking area and make an underground car park redundant. The new development along Kreuzstrasse comprises six townhouses with garages for young families. The gatehouse provides diverse housing for people with disabilities.
The central location of the building offers the opportunity to enable people with disabilities to lead largely self-determined lives. The focus is on promoting social participation and self-determination. As people with disabilities typically carry out their daily errands on foot, and public transportation is easily accessible, the new residents will not contribute to an increase in individual traffic.