Thursday, 23 April 2026
Art-Invest Real Estate, in partnership with the City of Stuttgart, has completed the urban planning and open space design competition for the redevelopment of the former Kodak site in Stuttgart-Wangen, marking a key milestone in the transformation of the historic industrial location.
The final jury meeting, held on 13 March 2026, selected Munich-based planning firm NUWELA as the winner, recognising its proposal for a mixed-use urban quarter that combines heritage preservation with contemporary design. The concept integrates parts of the original Kodak complex, dating back to the 1930s, into a broader development that aims to create a cohesive and functional neighbourhood.
The competition attracted 16 planning teams from across Germany and internationally, reflecting a wide range of architectural and urban planning approaches. Following an initial evaluation phase, two finalist concepts were shortlisted and subsequently refined before the jury made its final decision.
NUWELA’s proposal stood out for its structured yet adaptable layout, centred around a green axis designed to connect different parts of the neighbourhood. The plan combines residential, research and commercial uses, with more than 400 apartments envisioned as part of the scheme. A community-oriented approach is also embedded in the design, including a central meeting space intended to support local interaction.
Urban climate considerations played a significant role in the selection process. The winning concept incorporates ventilation corridors and landscaping strategies aimed at improving microclimatic conditions, while also responding to the site’s topography. The integration of new buildings into the hillside setting was highlighted as a key strength of the proposal.
City representatives emphasised the project’s broader importance for the surrounding districts, noting its potential to act as a catalyst for further development in Stuttgart-Wangen and neighbouring areas. The scheme is expected to contribute both architecturally and functionally to the city’s evolving urban fabric.
Art-Invest Real Estate indicated that the project will now move into the next phase of the planning process in coordination with local authorities. The development is positioned as a long-term regeneration initiative, aimed at delivering a balanced environment for living and working while retaining elements of the site’s industrial identity.
