Of the 18 works submitted on time, the contributions of two planning teams were unanimously declared the favorites.
Dr. Clemens Maier, Mayor for Security, Order and Sport, was himself part of the jury and is pleased with the decision: “We struggled intensively to find the best solution until late in the evening yesterday. Now it is clear: Hedelfingen can look forward to a versatile place for exercise and cultural experiences. There is a high demand for sports areas in Stuttgart, and only 70 percent of the demand can be met. We are now creating a new and long-awaited offer that will benefit many people and clubs.”
Prof. Jörg Aldinger, chairman of the jury, added: “Both designs meet the competition requirements to a high degree and convinced the jury in terms of urban development, architecture and functionality. The new Hedelfingen sports and culture center lets the diversity of the district with its historic town center and large commercial area shine in new splendor. The sports and culture center offers us a great opportunity to combine sports, culture and events in one place with a high quality of stay for people.”
Peter Holzer, head of the building construction office, said: “Two excellent designs are now on the table. Both are still a little short of being optimal. We have therefore given the planning teams homework. We know how challenging it is to plan a mixed use in a limited space that meets different interests: from kicking a ball around on the pitch to reading books in the district library. We are excited about the revisions and will then choose the best proposal from two good ones.”
Katinka Emminger, head of the city library, said: “With the two second-place designs, we have two forward-looking and adaptable models for a modern district library. In addition to their educational mission, their focus is also on promoting community and bringing people with different interests together. On this basis, it is now a matter of actively developing the designs further.”
The jury, chaired by architect Prof. Jörg Aldinger, was made up of experts, municipal council members and representatives of the city administration. The competition was announced Europe-wide in March 2024.
