The intention behind the redesign of the Schlossgarten in Osnabrück was not to rebuild the Baroque garden, but to offer a new interpretation of it. POLA Landschaftsarchitekten have transformed a garden that was once ahead of its time, as it was based on mathematical equilibrium and botanical harmony. Great importance was placed on preserving the listed parts of this historically significant garden and cultural asset. They also ensured that the garden could continue to be used and was properly integrated into the surroundings.
The result is a combination of playfulness and rigour in the treatment of natural elements, very much in the Baroque style. The lightness of being is embodied by the almost choreographic presentation of the circular jeux d’eau forming the centrepiece of the new castle parterre. Several spouts around the fountain’s perimeter emphasise the Baroque character of the castle and its garden.
One of the main objectives was to prepare the park for the effects of climate change. Concrete surfaces were replaced with permeable ones and more than 40 climate-resilient trees were planted. The greenery in the decorative flowerbeds was changed from labour-intensive seasonal bedding to hardy herbaceous plants and grasses. Surface water now drains into the adjacent lawns and planted areas, with excess water percolating into the groundwater via natural infiltration.
The jury commends the exceptional care and sensitivity with which the Schlossgarten in Osnabrück has been revitalised. The project demonstrates how a historic garden can be sustainably managed by combining heritage, ecology and community engagement.
