Rahul SomvanshiThe former Berlin-Tegel Airport is undergoing a transformative redevelopment, creating the Berlin TXL – The Urban Tech Republic and Schumacher Quartier. This ambitious project aims to repurpose the historical site into a hub for urban technology research and a vibrant residential district.
Innovative Urban Tech Republic
Central to this development is the Urban Tech Republic, a 200-hectare area dedicated to research and industrial activities focused on urban technologies. It will be a breeding ground for innovation, hosting around 1,000 businesses, both small and large, and providing employment opportunities for approximately 20,000 people. The research park will delve into critical urban development themes like energy efficiency, sustainable construction, eco-friendly mobility, recycling, networked systems, clean water, and the application of new materials.
Schumacher Quartier: A New Residential Vision
Adjacent to the Urban Tech Republic, the Schumacher Quartier is planned to offer over 5,000 homes, equipped with essential amenities like schools, daycare centers, and shopping facilities. This district will also serve as a testing ground for climate-neutral energy solutions and new mobility models. Moreover, accommodations for 2,500 students are planned within the former terminal building, adding to the area’s vibrant community feel.
Sustainable and Connected Living
The Urban Tech Republic is designed as a compact district, promoting short travel distances and featuring a dedicated clearway road for public transport. It will be well-connected to cycling and public transport networks, supporting bike and car-sharing options and encouraging e-mobility.
State-Led Development and Vision
The State of Berlin, through Tegel Projekt GmbH, is spearheading this project, aiming to complete the first construction phase by 2027. The development stands as a testament to Berlin’s commitment to sustainable urban living, addressing the housing crisis with a vision that encompasses all income levels.
Philipp Bouteiller, CEO of Tegel Projekt GmbH, emphasizes, “Our vision is different: Berlin TXL should not be a place for a high-income clientele only, but a sustainable, liveable space for people of all ages and regardless of their income.”
Architectural and Environmental Integration
The design of Berlin TXL integrates green spaces and environmentally-friendly architecture. German architecture studio Von Gerkan, Marg and Partners Architects (GMP) is tasked with renovating the iconic hexagonal terminal buildings of the airport into the new tech hub. The plan also dedicates a significant portion of the area to a nature reserve, managed by Grü̈n Berlin.
Legacy and Future
Berlin TXL not only reimagines the former Tegel Airport’s legacy but also sets a new standard for urban redevelopment. Its blend of technological innovation, sustainable living, and respect for nature presents a forward-thinking model for urban environments worldwide.
