Why is Gartenstadt Drewitz called a “garden city” when it’s full of Plattenbauten? Well, that’s exactly what makes its story so fascinating! Gartenstadt Drewitz, located on the outskirts of Potsdam, wasn’t always a vision of green spaces and community spirit. Built in the late 1980s as one of the last GDR housing estates, it originally consisted of ten massive super-blocks containing over 2,900 apartments. After reunification, Drewitz faced difficult times. The opening of a nearby shopping center led to the closure of local shops, and many middle-class families moved out. However, the spirit of the community didn’t die. In 2009, a remarkable transformation began.
The “Gartenstadt Drewitz” project, a vision of a greener and more livable community, was launched. This ambitious project aimed to renovate the existing housing blocks to the highest energy efficiency standards, a feat in itself! But it went beyond just energy efficiency. A central road, a barrier to community interaction, was replaced with a lush green park now named Konrad-Wolf Park. Imagine that, a park where a busy road once divided the neighborhood! This park, along with a new promenade and a “Green Cross” intersection featuring a town square and a cafe, became the heart of the revitalized Gartenstadt Drewitz.
The transformation wasn’t just about aesthetics. It was about people. The project focused on social sustainability, ensuring that long-time residents were not displaced. Amazingly, the retention rate for original residents was around 90%! They were given support, alternative housing during renovations, and even annual bus and tram tickets to enhance their mobility. Gartenstadt Drewitz stands as a testament to what a community can achieve when they work together with a shared vision. It’s a place where the echoes of the past blend with the hope of a sustainable future, a true “garden city” where community blossoms alongside greenery.