Previous state
The transformation of Bad Salzdetfurth, Germany aimed to create a new hub of civic identity by turning a busy street into a vibrant marketplace for festivals and other events, as well as honouring the town’s history, opening it up to the River Lamme, and addressing problems including lack of access and low biodiversity. The approach to transforming the landscape emphasised creating a background against which the old town and its natural setting would be highlighted.
Description
The redesigned marketplace is a wide, clear space with a uniform surface that enhances the beauty of the timber-framed houses of the old town centre. It is open, versatile, and well suited to free and community events. The benches around the edges offer places to sit and observe the square from different angles. The “Salzdetfurth timber-frame bench” evokes the typical local architectural style, thus commemorating the history of the town. The project celebrates both history and nature, promotes citizen participation, and encourages a strong sense of local identity. By reconnecting with the Lamme River, it reestablishes access at the point where a bathing house once stood. Steps that allow residents to reach the river’s edge now replace the wall that blocked the connection between town and river, and also naturally function as auditorium-like seating. At the bottom of the steps, the Lammegarten is a small wetland biotope extending beneath the pedestrian bridge and connecting the town centre with the river.
Assessment
The intervention has completely transformed the old centre of Bad Salzdetfurth with this creation of a space that combines nature, history, and community. Once separated from the town, the Lamme River is again accessible, bringing biodiversity and a new relationship with the riparian landscape. With its simple design, the new marketplace provides a setting for community events and once again highlights the value of the timber-framed houses. The project achieves a fine balance between modernity and historic heritage with a town centre that reinforces local identity and promotes environmental sustainability.
[Last update: 06/06/2025]
