Urban Quarter Landshut Railway Station

The redevelopment of former railway sites is one of the key challenges in contemporary urban design. These areas often represent the largest remaining development sites within established urban structures. Owing to their strategically advantageous transport connections, they frequently serve as important locations not only within the redevelopment area itself but also within the wider urban context. The areas surrounding Landshut Central Station likewise offer considerable potential for urban densification within the existing city fabric, particularly in light of the growing demand for housing.

Based on a differentiated process of research and analysis, students were tasked with designing a new urban quarter around Landshut Central Station, incorporating an appropriate mix of uses and building typologies.

The project began with an exploration of the historical development of Landshut. The medieval urban structure of the Old Town has been preserved to this day and continues to impress through its successful balance of density, architectural quality, and open space. The city’s cultural life, gastronomy, and retail activities remain concentrated in this area. In terms of land area, however, the Old Town now occupies only a small part of the city as a whole.

Over time, a complex juxtaposition of different urban districts has emerged, presenting a very different image of the city beyond its postcard views. At the same time, Landshut continues to grow. The city records rising employment figures, a high concentration of jobs, and a steadily increasing population. How can the resulting demand for housing and related infrastructure continue to be met in the future?

Particular attention was therefore given to solutions that combine higher-density living with forward-looking approaches to mobility. What opportunities does Landshut Central Station, as a key hub for regional and long-distance public transport, offer in this regard? How can its strategically important location be utilised more effectively? What role could the area play within the broader urban context in the future? And what programme requirements and uses emerge for the design site?