Turquoise-painted trees? Bright orange installations dotting the forest? What initially puzzles visitors reveals itself as a thoughtfully designed educational trail through nature. Created in the Grunewald following Berlin's International Garden Exhibition, this 4-kilometer loop—titled "Forest. Berlin. Climate."—invites discovery of how urban forests and climate are fundamentally connected.

The trail begins at Grunewald Tower, at the end of Havelchaussee, where an open plaza serves as a gathering space. Along the circular route, eleven information stations offer clear, accessible explanations—one theme per stop. For those seeking deeper scientific insights, QR codes link to comprehensive data. Viewing platforms, wooden boardwalks, and thoughtful installations punctuate the journey, creating visual rhythm. The route itself was carefully chosen to showcase the forest's full spectrum: wetlands, moorland, and diverse vegetation. Every element—from the path itself to the structures, information islands, bridges, and observation platforms—was designed and built by landscape architects hochC with meticulous attention to detail. This refined approach reflects the studio's commitment to excellence. As a flagship project of Berlin's urban landscape strategy, the installation works toward an ambitious 2050 goal: transforming the Grunewald's pine-dominated forest into a biodiverse, naturally balanced mixed woodland. Mixed forests sequester more carbon as climate change intensifies. They also allow greater rainfall penetration, replenishing groundwater reserves—a vital asset for a city that sources its drinking water entirely from below ground. Consequently, the role of foresters has evolved; they now serve as stewards of forest renewal and ecological transition.

Visitors experience all this through interactive installations, leaving with fresh perspectives to take home. One station features an overheard conversation among three trees—an oak, a pine, and a birch—discussing forest ecosystems. Another explores deadwood and how decay fuels new life. The result is a strikingly beautiful walk that combines learning with inspiration, offering visitors concrete ideas for their own climate action.

www.hochc.de

Photography Credits:

Philip Winkelmeier

(Published in CUBE Berlin 01|22)