Neuenburg am Rhein, situated at the tri-border area of France, Switzerland, and Germany, enjoys a uniquely advantageous geographic position and holds a special status. The 2022 National Garden Show served as a catalyst for urban transformation in the city, particularly the "Am Kronenrain" sector located between the city center and the newly redesigned "Stadtpark am Wuhrloch," which was a key component of the redevelopment.

Due to the existing urban landscape having virtually no usable space and a significant height difference of about nine meters, comprehensive planning by MONO Architekten has completely revitalized this area, connecting the green spaces and the city center with a unique architectural ensemble. This development includes a parking garage, public spaces, a bridge, and a tower, which together outline a new skyline and establish a new landmark for the city. The most striking feature is the towering structure, which forms a harmonious contrast with the adjacent parking garage via the connecting bridge. This distinct landmark tower is not only a gateway to the city but also an excellent vantage point, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from its highest point.

The parking structure is designed as a three-story building housing 231 parking spaces. Its facade features a balanced proportion of open elements, filling the interior with natural light and ensuring good ventilation. The establishment of this parking garage not only facilitates traffic flow in the city center but also creates a new public space at its top—the Munsterplatz. This plaza seamlessly integrates the previously modified street layouts, completing the new western urban planning map. Future comprehensive development through this project will drive growth and add new vitality to the city.

The tower was carefully designed with a geometrically square base rising to a height of 36 meters. Beyond providing park access at its ground level, an elevator within the structure reaches just below the top, where stairs lead up to the observation deck. From this vantage point, visitors can easily enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the architectural and environmental context. In the future, the bridge is planned to extend towards the park as a ramp, offering an accessible pathway that can also accommodate bicycles.

MONO Architekten opted for durable and robust materials such as rammed earth and Corten steel in their material selection. The building's facade features an orderly arrangement of porous elements, inspired by the local tradition of red sandstone and the historic Rhine riverbank. The facades are constructed from red-tinted rammed earth, mimicking natural sedimentary rock layers. This construction technique is not only simple and solid but also emphasizes craftsmanship, with gradually varying layers and textures that pay homage to history. These elements not only infuse the building with a contemporary minimalist artistic sense but also harmonize with the surrounding natural environment. This urban redevelopment project has infused Neuenburg am Rhein with new vitality and vigor, not only providing local residents with more recreational and leisure facilities but also becoming a significant attraction for tourists. These changes have increased both attention and affection towards the area, transforming it into a thriving and prosperous city.

Design Studio | MONO Architekten @monoarchitekten

Photography | Greogor Schmidt