Bad Karlshafen harbor area

Following the renovation of the harbor wall and the reopening of the Weser lock, the central square in Bad Karlshafen in northern Hesse has already been given a new look. The surrounding open spaces have been renovated in their historical context and new opportunities have been created for people to linger and stroll, for restaurants and events. 41 roof-shaped linden trees were planted in a hydraulically bound surface layer, which completes the baroque character and provides shade for the squares. The surfaces are paved with regional Weser sandstone in a segmental arch and designed with large-format natural stone slabs along the harbor wall.



By reusing existing paving and slabs, a sustainable and cost-reducing option was found to restore the historic surroundings with high structural quality. The barrier-free paved areas are generously laid out to allow flexible use for various events and permanent outdoor catering.



The baroque planned city with its inner city harbor was given effect lighting to highlight important buildings and elements with a subtle shimmer of light. Together with the new street lighting, this creates a harmonious picture in the evening hours.



Since the end of 2018, a new lock in Bad Karlshafen has reconnected the harbor basin, which was closed for over 90 years, with the Weser. The historic harbor in the largely intact listed baroque complex can now be used and experienced again in its original function.



In order to make the adjoining outdoor facilities usable as well, the traffic facilities and parking areas were massively reduced. On both sides of the harbor basin, there are now large, contiguous squares with recreational areas, areas for restaurants and space for events. In addition, the paths and squares are now barrier-free. The existing roof-shaped lime trees were added symmetrically to the existing structure and structure the space.