Shared spaces in Berlin: what the redesign of Maassen- and Bergmannstrasse meant for residents

As part of Berlin's pedestrian traffic strategy, the Senate decided in 2014 to create so-called shared spaces (Begegnungszonen). The concept: cars are not banned entirely, but pedestrians get priority. Carriageways are narrowed, pavements widened and speed limits set to 20 km/h.

Maassenstrasse as the pilot

Schoeneberg's Maassenstrasse became Berlin's first shared space. Work on the popular shopping and dining street was to begin the same year. The aim was to improve the environment for pedestrians and cyclists.

Bergmannstrasse in Kreuzberg was designated as the second project, though at an earlier planning stage. Urban Development Senator Michael Mueller announced: "Residents will also be involved in the planning for the Bergmannstrasse shared space."

Effects on living quality

Less traffic noise and wider pavements can increase residential appeal. The environment becomes safer for families and older people. Restaurants and shops benefit from higher footfall.

At the same time, parking spaces are lost. For tenants and owners who depend on a car, this can be a drawback. Balancing quality of life against accessibility was a hotly debated topic in the affected neighbourhoods in 2014.

Significance for the property market

Traffic-calmed streets can influence the value of apartments in the immediate vicinity. Experience from other cities suggests that demand for housing in such areas tends to rise.

The pilot projects in Tempelhof-Schoeneberg and Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg were intended as models. Their success would determine whether the concept was extended to other boroughs. The market development in the affected streets was therefore worth monitoring closely.