Redesign Initiated for Garden Space at Frieder District Centre, Friedrichshain Neighbourhood
In the heart of Friedrichshain, the overgrown garden associated with the neighbourhood centre "Frieder" is set for a significant transformation. The project, funded through the "Sustainable Renewal" program, aims to redesign the 300 square meter space communally, with the work scheduled to begin in 2026 and completion expected by 2024.
The former police station's remise is being converted into the neighbourhood centre "Frieder", and the centre is expected to open at the end of 2025. The State of Berlin owns the property. The centre, operated by Volkssolidaritaet, which is already active at several locations in Friedrichshain, will offer a multi-purpose room, neighbourhood kitchen, workshops, and spaces for cultural and educational offerings.
The courtyard of the centre is being divided into four areas by the landscape architecture office Schönherr. Initial ideas for courtyard design were collected during the Day of Urban Development Promotion in May. A further workshop was held on July 17, where neighbours, Volkssolidaritaet, the kindergarten "Die kleinen Entdecker", and the district officer of Friedrichshain-West discussed possible design variants.
The goal is to make the courtyard a meeting place for all generations. To achieve this, the green space will be planted in a climate-resilient way. A bench is planned to mark the boundary to Friedenstraße 33, while a greened fence with a gate is planned towards the kindergarten. A greened garage wall is also a supported courtyard design idea.
Raised beds that are accessible by wheelchair, a pergola with seating area, berry bushes, and vegetable beds are among the prioritized courtyard design ideas. Neighbours have expressed their willingness to contribute to the planning, construction, and long-term maintenance of the garden associated with the neighbourhood centre "Frieder".
The neighbourhood centre "Frieder" could contribute to achieving Berlin's climate goals. The institutions and groups involved in the design and long-term use of the shared garden related to the new district centre "Frieder" in Friedrichshain include local community organisations, urban planners, and the district's municipal authorities.
Neighbours have expressed a desire for open transitions to the neighbourhood centre "Frieder" and adjacent plots. After the summer break, the office Schönherr will present a first draft plan for the courtyard of the neighbourhood centre "Frieder". Six theme posters with sample photos helped participants make their priorities visible during the workshop.
The redesigned courtyard of the neighbourhood centre "Frieder" promises to be a vibrant and sustainable addition to the community in Friedrichshain.
