Situated at the edge of a woodland, between the town and the surrounding landscape, the Blaue See is a place with a distinct history and considerable potential for future use. The competition called for a long-term open-space concept that strengthens the relationship between landscape, environmental education and recreation. The aim was to develop the lake and its surroundings as an accessible and distinctive destination for people of different ages.
Our revitalisation concept brings together nature, education and leisure in a varied landscape setting. The design responds to the site’s ecological, climatic and functional conditions and incorporates measures such as material reuse, the reduction of sealed surfaces and integrated rainwater management. These strategies are intended to support local infiltration and water retention while reducing the need for additional sealed infrastructure.
A clearly structured path network with barrier-free access points enables visitors of different ages and abilities to explore the area. Car-free zones reduce conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians and contribute to a quieter recreational environment.
The landscape concept also includes succession areas, retained deadwood, green roofs and façades, as well as nesting and shelter structures for bats, birds and insects. These elements create additional habitat opportunities and make selected ecological processes visible within the site. At the heart of the concept is the Environmental Education Centre, conceived as a place for learning and discovery. Natural materials, interactive stations, information panels and digital tools provide information about local wildlife, plant species and the history of the Blaue See. A site-specific lighting concept with motion-controlled LED fixtures provides orientation during dusk and evening hours. The lighting is designed to operate only where and when required, with the aim of limiting unnecessary light emissions and reducing disturbance to nocturnal wildlife.