WS 24/25 E3 - Raum für den Grazbach

The area around the Herz-Jesu-Kirche church in Graz has a sewer system that no longer meets the increased requirements. The increasing construction of buildings and the associated sealing of surfaces have further exacerbated the situation. Despite the knowledge of this problem, no sufficient measures have been taken to date to limit the sealing. The collecting sewer, which was able to channel wastewater into the River Mur during earlier heavy rainfall events, is no longer adequate due to the backwater effects caused by the increased water level of the River Mur. The situation is particularly problematic along the Grazbach, which flowed openly through the eastern suburbs in the 19th century but now runs underground.

However, the rediscovery of the water offers new opportunities for the development of the area. Innovative urban development concepts could create visible water features and design elements that use the potential of water to improve the quality of life. Such measures could cool the urban climate, create recreational spaces and at the same time make drainage more efficient. Graz needs creative approaches that combine functionality and aesthetics. In Design 3, we will tackle these challenges by developing open channels that absorb excess water and serve as recreational spaces. 

Our project includes the redesign and redevelopment of the area from the Herz-Jesu-Kirche to the Mur to improve the urban climate and reduce the risk of flooding.