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LocationBielefeld
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ProjectTransformation of the former Karstadt site into a mixed-use quarter with retail, restaurants, a hotel, and residential units
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ClientUnternehmensgruppe Sahle Wohnen
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Architect of recordCaspar Schmitz-Morkramer
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Structural engineeringWerner Sobek AG
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Technical building equipmentDES GmbH
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Fire protectionCorall Ingenieure GmbH
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Landscape architecturestudio grüngrau GmbH
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Planning and building periodas of 2026
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GFAapprox. 26,000 m²
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Competition area8,815 m²
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Visualizationsmoka-studio GbR
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SketchesPaul Trakies
The redevelopment of the former Karstadt site introduces a vibrant, future-oriented urban quarter in the heart of downtown Bielefeld. The design is conceived as a consistent act of urban repair: the monofunctional large-scale structure of the former department store is transformed into a diverse urban ensemble. Instead of a hermetic standalone building, the project creates an open and permeable neighborhood with clearly defined urban edges, new addresses, and protected interior spaces. The aim is to create a piece of city that combines social activation, urban diversity, and long-term adaptability.
“Our design is conceived as an urban renewal project. The former monolithic department store is being transformed into a vibrant part of the city center featuring new venues and clearly defined urban spaces with an open and lively atmosphere. Our goal was to create a place that is not only functionally reimagined, but also brings social and spatial qualities back to the city center.”
The required building volume is intentionally divided into several clearly legible structures. Voids, setbacks, joints, and differentiated building widths translate the scale of the project into an urban grain appropriate for Bielefeld’s city center. Rather than creating a monolithic megastructure, the design establishes an ensemble of distinct buildings, each with its own identity. Along Bahnhofstrasse, Arndtstrasse, and Friedenstrasse, the architecture responds precisely to the surrounding urban conditions: strong urban presence along the retail corridor, public gathering spaces around the neighborhood plaza, and a quieter residential atmosphere along Friedenstrasse. Within the block, previously undefined residual spaces are transformed into clearly structured and landscaped courtyards. Activated rooftop landscapes further expand the range of usable open spaces, creating new places for recreation and social interaction. Greenery, shading, and planted areas also contribute significantly to climate adaptation and help improve the microclimate within the dense urban environment.
The development is conceived as a robust and highly adaptable building system designed for long-term use. A flexible skeleton frame with a regular column grid accommodates a wide range of programs — from retail and dining to hotel uses, serviced apartments, and senior living. The clear separation between structure and interior fit-out ensures maximum flexibility for future conversions and long-term resilience. At the same time, the project consistently follows the principle of resource efficiency: optimized spans, low-carbon materials, and an integrated “Low-Tech+” approach minimize both energy demand and material consumption. The result is a sustainable urban quarter designed to meet present-day requirements while remaining adaptable to future needs and changing urban conditions.
