Since 2010, the Technical University of Munich has been developing forward-looking urban development strategies at various planning scales through its “Design Labs”, carried out in cooperation with regions, cities, and municipalities.

The Regio Frauenfeld Design Lab addressed the increasing urbanisation of the Canton of Thurgau, Switzerland, and its impact on the built environment. Based on representative case studies, different thematic fields were identified and explored in four municipalities.

For the municipalities, ongoing growth pressure requires the assessment of numerous individual development projects with regard to appropriate density and the distribution of uses. Smaller planning authorities in particular require strategic guidance that places individual projects within a broader local and regional context. Design Labs can make an important contribution in this regard.

Using specific case studies, the Regio Frauenfeld Design Lab investigated questions such as: What are the typical challenges of local urban development? How should planning approaches and recommendations differ according to the type and location of a municipality? Which guiding principles can support high-quality urban development? Which projects can generate added value for the wider community?

The resulting publication documents the findings of the Design Lab. 

Following an introduction to the topic, the publication presents the selected municipalities, the key research questions, and the “Lessons Learned”, illustrated and explained through the students’ design proposals.