Throughout HafenCity, the new neighbourhoods are framed by reinforced quaysides—remnants of the area's maritime past. Today, these historic quays have been transformed into waterfront promenades. During storm surges, the promenades at the original harbour level can be submerged, but the new buildings, squares and streets are protected by an elevated platform approximately four metres high. At Kirchenpauerkai, between the historic waterfront and the new retaining wall of red-brown clinker brick, lies HafenCity's most expansive promenade: one thousand metres long and thirty metres wide. Here, the Baakenhafen quarter opens toward the Elbe.

Berlin-based Atelier Loidl has created a remarkable waterfront park at Kirchenpauerkai—a linear green corridor that serves multiple purposes. Beyond its ecological role as a biotope network and biodiverse habitat, it functions as a vital recreational and activity space for neighbouring districts while connecting the neighbourhoods east and south of HafenCity to the city centre via the Elbe Cycle Route.

Your gaze sweeps across the water toward the Freihafenelbbrücke and onto Grasbrook; boats drift past, and the harbour silhouette shimmers downstream. The air carries "the scent of the vast world beyond." In this extraordinary setting, Kirchenpauerkai creates a distinctive atmosphere where visitors can relax, play, and recharge. Nestled within the undulating, wind-shaped landscape of tree-lined meadows are various play and sports facilities, with a jogging path running alongside. The "play pocket" features pole games and a hilly net structure ideal for climbing and balancing—designed especially for children and young people. The fitness stations cater to a range of calisthenics exercises.

It's a place where people gather, stay active together, and strike up conversations. Oversized seating and lounging elements invite creative use and play. Whether strolling through the tree canopy along the historic quay or sitting quietly on a bench gazing at the glistening water, the promenade invites rest and renewal. Grand staircases and accessible ramps link the elevated neighbourhood squares to the crane platforms on the promenade itself—spaces that transform into natural viewing stands in the afternoon and evening, where visitors can watch and enjoy social activities like dancing and play.

www.atelier-loidl.de

Photography Credits:

Leonard Grosch
www/leonardgrosch.de

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 01|24)