Krupp Park in Essen represents far more than simply a green space within the urban fabric. This 20-hectare site—once home to sections of the historic Krupp cast steel works—serves as a vital connector between the Altendorf district and the western city center, anchoring Essen's crucial "Krupp Belt" urban development initiative. Fifteen years after the northern section's completion, the southern expansion of Krupp Park has now reached fruition. The design emerges from the vision of Prof. Andreas Kipar and his team at landscape architecture firm LAND Germany, with implementation by Grün und Gruga.

After years of extensive preparatory planning—encompassing urban planning measures, infrastructure development, and the securing of funding—work began on the elaborate site modeling. Five and a half of the total eight hectares were reforested. The focus was on biodiversity. To this end, 14 different native tree species, selected for climate resilience, were planted—totaling more than 11,500 trees. These include sycamore maples, wild sweet cherries, and European beeches, which contribute to biodiversity while providing shade and visual appeal. To create visual continuity with the park's northern section, columnar oak rows were extended here as well. Additionally, the landscape is enriched by 7,000 shrubs in 15 species, plus 1,500 perennials and ornamental grasses. Along the pathways, flower-rich meadows add splashes of color throughout the seasons. The larger northern park, with its 10,000 m² lake and sports facilities, has long since become a popular and well-frequented recreational destination for families and visitors of all ages.

The southern section integrates seamlessly while meaningfully enhancing the city's climate resilience. Through strategic reforestation, the park actively cools its surroundings: tree canopies capture summer rainfall, which evaporates and lowers ambient temperatures, while unsealed surfaces allow water to filter into soil where it's needed most. Within the broader "Freiraum Schafft Stadtraum" (Open Space Creates Urban Space) master plan, Krupp Park functions as a catalyst for urban transformation. "Green spaces of this caliber magnetize new development by fostering attractive, healthy environments—elevating residents' quality of life while generating opportunities for commerce and leisure," explains Prof. Andreas Kipar, the renowned landscape architect and Ruhr region native. "Well-maintained greenery and recreational spaces nurture community identity and social bonds, ultimately strengthening the wellbeing of the entire neighborhood."

www.landsrl.com

Photography:

Kassenberg
Richter
Oberhäuser

(From CUBE Ruhrgebiet 02|24)