Water
The Sponge City Concept
How a city manages water determines its resilience. The Schumacher Quartier is based on the “sponge city” principle – and keeps rainwater in the cycle.
Weather phenomena such as heavy rain, droughts, and extreme heat are on the rise. Paved roads, impervious surfaces, and dense development prevent rainwater from seeping into the ground naturally and, at the same time, contribute to the urban heat island effect in the summer.
The residential buildings and open spaces in the Schumacher Quarter are being designed according to the “sponge city” model, making the quarter a Berlin benchmark project for climate-adapted and water-sensitive urban development.
The Sponge City
The principle is very simple: Rainwater stays where it falls. Green roofs, facades, flower beds, and other green spaces absorb it like a sponge. The water is collected and, during dry spells, specifically released back to the plants; it evaporates, thereby cooling the neighborhood on hot days. This ensures that not a single drop of this precious water enters the sewer system. During heavy rain, the water is directed away via a cascade system to prevent flooding. In this way, water remains within the natural cycle, conserving resources—and transforms from a problem into a resource.
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The sponge city principle
Comprehensive information on the “sponge city principle” in the Schumacher Quarter.