Town square redesign Hellmonsödt
Invited competition for the Marktgemeinde of Hellmonsödt: 1st place
Location: Hellmonsödt, Österreich
Competition partners and traffic planning: Bernhard Moser | CEC COMMUNAL Engineering & Consulting GmbH
Year: 2024
Team
Birgitta Kunsch | Barbara Busslinger, Ana Nistor
A Vibrant Centre with a Strong Connection to Nature
How can a town square be redesigned to integrate harmoniously into a long-established context while at the same time functioning as a lively centre for the local community?
The close integration of traffic planning expertise and architectural design made it possible to develop a realistic, functional and identity-shaping overall concept that convinced the competition jury. The proposed redesign creates an inviting centre for all generations, with the aim of enhancing the quality of stay in the heart of the municipality without altering the defining character of the townscape.
The new town square is characterised by comprehensive barrier-free accessibility. Level surfaces, the deliberate avoidance of curbs and a clear paving structure create a safe and pleasant environment for all users – from pedestrians to cyclists.
User-Friendly & Barrier-Free
Stage & center
Special attention was given to the covered stage. Designed as a restrained, small-scale element, it integrates harmoniously into the overall square layout. Its orientation towards the church reinforces the church’s role as the dominant urban landmark and provides a setting for future events by the local theatre group and music association.
Green Space & Materiality
Generous, nature-oriented green areas with native, robust planting contribute to a lively public space with seasonal variation. Existing trees are preserved, while additional planting, water channels and drinking water fountains enhance the offer. The material palette emphasises regionality: wood and granite define the character of the square and create a natural, enduring atmosphere.
Quality of Stay for Everyone
Differentiated spatial zones – including outdoor dining areas, shop entrance zones and sheltered niches – offer places for encounter, recreation and everyday use. Despite the retention of parking facilities, the redesigned square becomes an open and welcoming town centre that accommodates a wide range of needs.
A carefully considered traffic concept calms through-traffic by means of visual narrowing through planting, while maintaining necessary bypass options. The urban structure follows a clear linear organisation oriented towards the church. Staged visual axes – from the approach through the stage to the church – strengthen the spatial identity of the town square.
Traffic & Urban Structure
