Gleispool Dreispitz Basel-Münchenstein: Transforming a Railway Ramp into a Natural Oasis
Ever wondered how an old railway ramp could get a fresh new life? Meet Gleispool – the longest natural swimming pool in Switzerland, stretching 170 meters long and 5.2 meters wide. Located in Basel–Münchenstein, this unique project turns a vacant piece of infrastructure into a buzzing public space where leisure, sports, and paddling come together. Opening in summer 2027, it’s designed to cool down the heat island effect of Dreispitz, while creating habitats for local wildlife. And the best part? It’s chemical-free, relying on natural biological filtration to keep the water clean. Gleispool isn’t just a pool; it’s a vibrant meeting spot and a shining example of sustainable urban development.
Main Benefits and Key Facts of Gleispool
Here’s what makes Gleispool stand out:
- Length: 170 meters; Width: 5.2 meters
- Expected users: Up to 50,000 per season
- Operates without chemical additives – natural multi-stage filtration
- Part of the Gleisharfenpark, designed following the sponge city principle
- Supports cooling, ventilation, shading, and biodiversity in Dreispitz
- Transforms a 50-hectare commercial and service area undergoing densification
Freiraumkonzept Dreispitz: Shaping Open Spaces for the Future
Right alongside Gleispool, the Freiraumkonzept Dreispitz is taking shape. This open space concept, led by an interdisciplinary team, is all about securing and enhancing the urban, climatic, and ecological qualities of the Dreispitz area. It’s a unique industrial and commercial zone in Basel and Münchenstein that’s undergoing a big transformation. The process focuses on long-term development and integration into the surrounding urban landscape, making sure open spaces aren’t just leftover spots but vital parts of the city’s future.
Heat Reduction Pilot Project in Zurich: Testing Surfaces for Cooler Cities
In Zurich’s Oerlikon district, a pilot project is underway to tackle urban heat. The city is experimenting with different permeable surfaces on a triangular parking lot — think natural stone, concrete, grass grids, gravel lawns, and more. These materials are tested for water permeability, temperature control, and ecological benefits, all monitored closely with Zurich University of Applied Sciences. The goal? To find practical, scalable solutions that help cities stay cooler and greener, embracing the sponge city principle in real life.
Kantonsschule Limmattal Urdorf: Blending Urban and Green Spaces
At the Kantonsschule Limmattal in Urdorf, the landscape design strikes a balance between urban scale and lush greenery. The school sits between a large urban structure and a heavily greened residential area, and the outdoor spaces reflect this mix. Geometric tree clusters create cozy gathering spots, while sports and play facilities are open to the public, encouraging community interaction. The design emphasizes accessibility and versatility, making the school grounds a lively neighborhood hub.
Walder Areal Wangen-Brüttisellen: Preserving History, Embracing the Future
The Walder Areal in Wangen-Brüttisellen is a fascinating blend of old and new. Once a shoe factory, the site is being carefully developed to preserve its industrial charm while welcoming new architecture. The master plan, crafted with multiple architectural teams, focuses on five key ideas: using history as a resource, enhancing the central location, connecting spaces internally and externally, creating a family of buildings and open spaces, and fostering a strong community identity. The open spaces are designed to be inviting and diverse, supporting both people and wildlife with permeability and quality.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Linked to These Initiatives
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – promoting active lifestyles and social interaction
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – natural water filtration and sustainable water management
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – enhancing urban resilience and livability
- SDG 13: Climate Action – mitigating urban heat and supporting climate adaptation
- SDG 15: Life on Land – preserving biodiversity and creating habitats
Looking Ahead: The Future of Urban Landscape Architecture
These projects show how thoughtful landscape architecture can transform urban spaces into multifunctional, sustainable environments. From cooling down heat islands to creating vibrant social hubs, the focus is on blending ecology, urban planning, and community needs. As cities grow and change, such initiatives offer inspiring examples of how to balance development with nature, history with innovation, and functionality with beauty. It’s about crafting spaces where people and nature thrive together – and that’s a future worth building.
