zeit.de
Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt Redesign: Senator Defends 'Stone Desert' Criticism
Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt, reopened after a two-year, €14 million renovation, faces criticism for its lack of greenery; Senator Gaebler defends the design, citing historical accuracy and event functionality, while promising additional, large shade trees.
- What historical considerations influenced the design choices for the renovated Gendarmenmarkt?
- Gaebler's defense emphasizes the historical precedent for the Gendarmenmarkt's current design, mirroring its appearance during the DDR era. This choice, he explains, was made after extensive discussions about the appropriate historical restoration. The decision prioritizes the functionality of the space as an event venue, suggesting that numerous trees would be an impediment.
- What are the main criticisms of the Gendarmenmarkt's redesign, and how does the urban development senator respond to them?
- The recently renovated Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin has faced criticism for its lack of greenery, described by some as a 'stone desert'. However, Berlin's Urban Development Senator, Christian Gaebler, defends the design, citing the restoration of a historical look and the need to accommodate events like the Classic Open Air and Christmas markets. Around 14,000 square meters of natural stone paving were renewed during the two-year project.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of prioritizing event functionality over extensive greenery in the Gendarmenmarkt's redesign?
- The addition of heat-resistant Japanese trees, with crowns up to 18 meters in diameter, at the Gendarmenmarkt's edge indicates a future compromise between historical accuracy and the desire for more greenery. The long-term impact of this approach on public opinion, however, remains to be seen. The project's focus on functionality over aesthetics highlights ongoing challenges in balancing historical preservation with modern urban planning needs.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the debate favorably towards Senator Gaebler's perspective. The headline (not provided, but inferred) likely emphasizes the senator's dismissal of criticism. Gaebler's statements are presented prominently, while criticism is summarized briefly and without detailed supporting evidence. The order of information—presenting Gaebler's defense before detailed criticisms—shapes the narrative to favor his viewpoint.
Language Bias
The language used leans slightly towards favoring Senator Gaebler's position. Phrases like "unberechtigt" (unjustified) and "die Aufregung...legen" (the excitement will subside) subtly downplay the criticisms. The use of quotes from Gaebler without direct counter-quotes from critics reinforces this bias. More neutral wording could include presenting critics' viewpoints with equal prominence and avoiding value judgments on the validity of their concerns.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Senator Gaebler's perspective and the historical context of the Gendarmenmarkt's design, neglecting to include detailed perspectives from critics or experts in urban planning and landscape architecture. The criticisms are summarized generally as 'the place resembles a stone desert' and lacks greenery, without offering specific examples of dissenting opinions or detailed counter-arguments. The article also omits quantitative data on the amount of green space currently present compared to before the renovation, and makes only a general reference to additional trees planned for the future, without specifics on their number or planting timeline.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the debate as a choice between historical accuracy (restoring the GDR-era design) and sufficient greenery. It fails to acknowledge that these two goals might be compatible, or that other historical periods could have served as design models. The implication is that prioritizing events necessitates minimal green space, neglecting the possibility of designs that balance both.
Sustainable Development Goals
The renovation of Gendarmenmarkt aims to balance historical preservation with modern functionality as a public space and event venue. While initial criticism focuses on the lack of greenery, the plan includes additional, heat-resistant trees, and the renovation improved underground infrastructure. The project aims to maintain the historical character of the square while improving its usability for citizens and tourists.