A new quarter for living, working, and urban leisure is under development in place of a formerly industrial quarter of Starnberg. The landscape concept for the new public open spaces and green areas resonates with the biological and infrastructural qualities of the town and its adjacent nature – place-specificity is achieved through a strong ecological identity, robust climate resilience, and a careful response to urban conditions.

With strong reference to a spectacular context between the Leutstettener Moos nature reserve and the scintillating waters of the Starnberger See, individual areas of the master plan follow specific planting themes, each serving a particular function. The “Moosband” reflects the landscape features found in the adjacent Leutstettener Moos nature reserve, and is vegetated according to a diverse palette of wetland species. The gardens also collect and infiltrate the bulk of stormwater runoff from the site, performing a critical ecosystem service that is showcased and celebrated: elevated boardwalks criss-cross the lowered areas and bring residents and visitors Moosaik in constant touch with nature. Serene birch meadows amongst the timber-built office buildings foster a pleasant atmosphere to take refreshing midday breaks thereby contributing to healthier workplace culture. The commercial southern half of the site furthermore shields the residential area in the northern half from traffic noise and disturbances. Sport and play areas amongst the residential buildings are accented with blossoming fruit trees elicit a sense of vibrancy as the warming spring weather beckons outdoor activities.

At the heart of the new district, bountiful broad-canopied trees shade the inviting seating and leisure areas that are surfaced with compact earth. With species that are well-adapted to increasing temperatures, the leafy pedestrian routes through Moosaik provide a sense of urban comfort both in an aesthetic sense but also with a long-term outlook for healthy greenery and reduced heat island effects on hot summer evenings. A play fountain evokes an immediately recognizable homage to the refreshing waters of the Starnberger See.