Once pasture land now a hub of transformation. That is Kleiner Grasbrook. This quarter of Hamburg sits on an island between the Elbe’s northern and southern branches. Today, we will uncover Kleiner Grasbrook’s story.
Kleiner Grasbrook’s history is one of constant change. Until the mid-19th century it was just marshland. Around 1850, things changed. The area was first used as a port. Bridges connected Hamburg and Harburg. The port grew steadily from the 19th century onward. They expanded it for seagoing vessels.
In the 1960s, the landscape shifted again. Water areas were filled. This made way for the Überseezentrum. In the 1970s, even more filling occurred. Large parts of the Segelschiffhafen disappeared. This created logistics and storage areas. By 2016, the Überseezentrum was abandoned due to economic issues.
Kleiner Grasbrook suffered during World War II. The port became a target during Operation Gomorrah. From 1944 to 1945, a subcamp of the Neuengamme concentration camp existed here. In 1962, a North Sea flood caused widespread damage. The island was widely flooded.
Today, Kleiner Grasbrook is experiencing a rebirth. In 2017, the idea for a new district was presented. This district would combine urban life with port activity.
Plans are underway to transform Kleiner Grasbrook. A competition was held to design the urban development and open spaces. The team of Herzog and de Meuron won. Their design will shape the new district.
The Senate confirmed the functional and open space planning in 2022. This set the stage for the next phase. Construction of the Moldauhafenbrücke is set to begin in 2026. This bridge will connect different parts of the district.
Infrastructure work is changing the landscape. Former harbor areas are being filled to prevent flooding. Grasbrook Boulevards are taking shape. The Überseezentrum has been dismantled. Construction on the first buildings is expected in 2028.
Kleiner Grasbrook will become a green peninsula. Parks, promenades, and green squares will define the open space. A central park will run through the district. It will link the river and the harbor basin.
The new district aims to integrate the Elbe islands. This connects them to the rest of the city. The goal is sustainable urban development. It promotes mixed-use quarters for living and working.
Kleiner Grasbrook has seen significant changes throughout its history. From marshland to port to future urban district, it continues to evolve. Its story reflects Hamburg’s dynamic spirit.