With the completion of the City Transformation in August 2025 marks the end of a three-year funding project that has visibly shaped Karlsruhe's city center. The aim was to make the city fit for the future - vibrant, versatile and appealing. With the support of the federal program Sustainable inner cities and centers numerous measures have been implemented since 2022 that continue to have an impact today.
Over 100 initiatives supported
Over 100 ideas were supported. From cultural events and artistic productions to greening urban spaces, new impulses were created that enrich everyday life in the city center.
Particularly sustainable: two new neighborhood associations - on Marktplatz and in Herrenstrasse, Erbprinzenstrasse and Mittlere Waldstrasse - will continue their involvement even after the project ends.
Rethinking vacancies: the rental model
One particularly successful example is the rental model. Four previously vacant stores have been permanently revitalized - including a Croissant franchisea second-hand bridal shopa impact hub for social innovation and a fashion boutique. The model shows how new perspectives can be created through cooperation between the city, owners and founders
New impetus in the neighborhoods
Small churchGreenery, furniture and a colorful cultural program made the square a popular meeting place.
Central KaiserstrasseThree theme weeks (sport, photo points, culture & open stage) brought new experiences to the shopping street.
StephanplatzThe art installation Flora Momentum will remain in place permanently and combines art with quality of stay.
Market square: Since 2024, new shady areas, green spaces and seating have provided a better quality of stay.
Lounge 76 - from pilot project to continuation
The Lounge 76 on the market square began as a temporary project as part of Karlsruhe trifft sich. Today it is a permanent place for encounters and exchange - supported by the Marktplatz Quartier, the City Initiative Karlsruhe e. V. and Karlsruhe City Council.
Consulting & digital visibility
In addition to structural and cultural projects, the city transformation also strengthened the digital presence of the neighborhoods:
- Own Instagram channels for Forest Road, marketplace and Karlstraße
- Collaborations with local influencers - almost 100 posts about stores and campaigns along Kaiserstrasse
- A branding process for Kaiserpassage and Passagehof with logo, key visual and initial marketing materials
In addition, a neighborhood architect owners and tradespeople with refurbishment, design and conversion.
Background
The City-Transformation Karlsruhe project was funded from 2022 to 2025 as part of the Federal Program for Sustainable Inner Cities and Centers program. The aim was to further develop the inner city locations, which were severely affected by structural change and the pandemic, into multifunctional, attractive districts.
The City of Karlsruhe would like to thank all the owners, businesses, associations, cultural workers and supporters who have contributed to the success of the project with their commitment.
