Location
Berlin, Kreuzberg - Skalitzer Straße
Planning
Paper planes e.V., Reallabor Radbahn gUG, nuko PartGmbB ehemals Lysann Schmidt Landschaftsarchitektur, fabulism GbR
Sponsored by
National Urban Development Project, by the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Building, by the Senate Department for Urban Development and Housing
Photos
Stick up Studio
For a long time, the space under the U1 elevated train viaduct in Berlin-Kreuzberg was used for parking vehicles, until a group of city enthusiasts took up the question: Why not turn this largely unused parking space into a covered cycle path? Against the backdrop of a sustainable traffic turnaround, this question developed over time into the vision of a 9 km long high-speed cycle route from Bahnhof Zoo to Oberbaumbrücke. The new urban space should not “only” serve as a cycle path, but should also be made accessible to a broad public with different usage concepts.
However, before the entire 9 km cycle route along the U1 could be planned, the concept had to be tested on a small scale using a test route. The so-called “Radbahn real laboratory” is intended to critically review the previous planning and make the idea of the cycle path tangible using a section of the route. In addition, users will be actively involved in the test phase through various participation formats. The aim is to gain insights from use for the future planning of the entire route.
Protected from the wind and weather and separated from car traffic, the 200-metre-long test track has been running between Görlitzer Bahnhof and Kottbusser Tor since mid-April 2024. The cycle path is also intended to be a meeting place and an invitation to communicate, relax and play. In this context, LiF Freiraumobjekte designed the modular KALI stool benches in close consultation with the planners.
These can be found along the test track in various designs: with an integrated bike holder, with a table or as a simple stool bench, they invite users of the cycle track to take a break. When designing the benches, particular emphasis was placed on a minimalist yet robust design. The basic construction made of powder-coated stainless steel ensures high stability in daily use and retains a certain lightness thanks to the inwardly offset feet and concealed screw connections.
The modern design language of the benches can also be found in the design of the other outdoor furniture, which was created specifically to meet the requirements of the planners. The uniform, pastel green color of the powder coating and dynamic curves are used as design elements throughout the furniture and create a harmonious overall picture with a high quality of use and stay.
For example, the large litter garbage can along the test route ensures that garbage can be disposed of quickly during the journey. A large device for insect hotels and birdhouses contributes to urban biodiversity. Large and small information signs inform users about the project and encourage them to get involved. Anyone who would like to give feedback on the test track can post it in the letterbox created for this purpose. The resulting findings will be compiled together with all other project findings in a final report, which will serve as the basis for the further planning of the entire route.
