Hannover

local observatory

lower saxony, germany

coordinated by Leibniz University Hannover
  • Architects for Future Hannover is a local committee of the wider Architects for Future movement, which promotes sustainable architecture and urban development as a response to the climate crisis. The organization is made up of architects, urban planners and other professionals who aim to promote environmentally responsible practices within the construction industry.

    Architects for Future Hanover engages in various activities, including public awareness campaigns, educational workshops and collaborative projects, to promote dialogue on sustainable building techniques and policies. By emphasizing the importance of integrating environmental considerations into design and planning processes, the group aims to influence local government policy and encourage a cultural shift towards sustainability in the built environment.

  • arc.lab is a design and research studio based in Hannover, Germany, focusing on the integration of landscape architecture and urban design. The studio specializes in creating sustainable, innovative and context-sensitive solutions for urban spaces, emphasizing the importance of ecological principles in landscape design. Through collaborative projects, arc.lab works with various stakeholders, including public authorities, communities and private clients, to develop adaptive landscapes that enhance urban living environments.

    The studio also places a strong emphasis on research, exploring contemporary challenges in urbanization, climate change and social dynamics to inform its design approach. By combining creative vision with scientific accuracy, arc.lab aims to contribute to the creation of resilient and vibrant urban landscapes that foster social interaction and environmental sustainability.

  • The Chamber of Architects of Lower Saxony is a professional organization representing architects, landscape architects, interior designers and urban planners in Lower Saxony. Established by law, the Chamber plays a regulatory and advocacy role, ensuring professional standards within the field of architecture.

    It administers the official registration of architects, oversees professional development and promotes good practice within the profession. In addition, the Chamber provides advice on legal and technical matters, promotes public engagement with architectural issues and contributes to policy-making in the areas of urban development and construction.

  • The BDA Niedersachsen represents the interests of architects in Lower Saxony. BDA Niedersachsen is committed to high standards in architectural practice and urban planning. The organization plays an important role in promoting quality in building design, conservation and urban development, while emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage in architecture. It provides a platform for professional exchange, supports the continuing education of architects and engages in public discourse on architectural issues.

    It also works with government bodies, educational institutions and other organizations to influence policy-making and enhance the role of architecture in shaping sustainable, liveable communities.

  • BDA Hannover is the local committee of the BDA Niedersachsen, with a specific focus on the city of Hannover. The organization aims to represent the interests of architects and promote the value of high quality architectural practice in the region.

  • The BDIA Hannover is the local representative of the Bund Deutscher Innenarchitekten (BDIA). The organization represents interior architects and designers in the Hannover region and focuses on the promotion of high standards in interior design and spatial planning. BDIA Hannover provides a platform for professional development, networking and collaboration among its members. It organizes events, workshops and exhibitions that highlight innovative design practices and the importance of interior design in enhancing the quality of spaces.

    In addition, the committee lobbies for the recognition of interior design as a vital discipline in the creation of functional, aesthetic and sustainable environments, and engages with policy makers and stakeholders to influence regulations and standards within the field.

  • The Hannover City Council is the local government body responsible for managing the public services and administrative functions of the City of Hannover, in Germany. It is organized into various departments and offices that deal with key areas such as urban planning, public safety, education, infrastructure and social services.

    Its main responsibilities include implementing council policies, managing the city's budget and ensuring the efficient delivery of public services to residents, businesses and visitors. The council also plays a key role in urban development, sustainability initiatives and promoting civic participation.

  • Fachschaft Archland is the student body that represents the interests of architecture students at Leibniz University of Hannover. The organization serves as a vital link between students, faculty and university administration, and advocates for the academic and social needs of its members. Fachschaft Archland organizes various activities, including workshops, guest lectures and networking events, aimed at enhancing the educational experience and fostering a sense of community among architecture students.

    It also provides a platform for students to voice their concerns, contribute to curriculum development and participate in co-curricular projects. By encouraging collaboration and engagement, the Archland Students' Association plays a vital role in shaping the educational environment for future architects.

  • Gundlach is a leading construction and property development company based in Hanover. Founded in 1889, the company specializes in a wide range of services including project development, construction management and property management. Gundlach focuses on both residential and commercial projects, emphasizing quality craftsmanship and sustainable building practices.

    The company is known for its commitment to innovative design and efficient construction processes, enabling it to deliver projects that meet contemporary standards of functionality and aesthetics. In addition, Gundlach is involved in corporate social responsibility initiatives, contributing to urban development and revitalisation efforts in Hanover and the surrounding regions.

  • ProKlima is a climate protection fund, primarily financed by enercity Netz GmbH and the City of Hannover, along with several surrounding municipalities. The fund supports local climate protection projects by providing expertise and financial assistance for energy-saving initiatives Its primary objectives include promoting energy-efficient construction and modernization, renewable energy generation, and efficient heat production.

    ProKlima offers a wide range of support, from financial grants for improving thermal insulation and installing efficient heating systems to providing educational materials on climate change and protection. By prioritizing CO2 efficiency, absolute CO2 reduction, multiplier effects, and innovation in its funding criteria, ProKlima plays a crucial role in driving the local energy transition and supporting the development of climate-neutral cities.

  • The Sprengel Young Circle is a youth initiative associated with the Sprengel Museum Hannover, one of Germany's leading museums for modern and contemporary art. The program is designed to engage young people with art and culture by offering them exclusive access to exhibitions, workshops, and events. It aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of contemporary art and foster creative expression among its members. Participants have opportunities to interact with artists, curators, and other cultural professionals, while also contributing to the museum’s outreach efforts. The Sprengel Young Circle serves as a platform for youth involvement in the art world and promotes cultural education.

  • Initiative Hüttenstraße e.V. is a dynamic nonprofit organization in Hannover, Germany, dedicated to creating a new space for work, culture, and community. Located in the Hüttenstraße area, this initiative transforms large vacant spaces into vibrant hubs for experimentation and collaboration. The project aims to develop a shared environment that fosters creativity, cultural exchange, and sustainable practices, aligning with the principles of circular design and urban transformation.

    As a member of the Circular Design Innovation alliance, Initiative Hüttenstraße e.V. contributes to the broader goal of reimagining urban spaces for a more sustainable future. The organization is currently working on the "Materialinitiative Kunst und Kultur" project, which focuses on promoting community engagement and resource sharing. By providing a platform for diverse groups to come together, experiment, and create, Initiative Hüttenstraße e.V. plays a crucial role in nurturing innovative approaches to circular design and fostering a more inclusive and sustainable urban environment in Hannover.

  • Symbiotic Spaces in Hildesheim is an innovative project that exemplifies circular design principles while promoting urban biodiversity. This initiative focuses on creating 3D-printed modular habitats from local clay, designed to support various species, including insects, amphibians, small mammals, and birds. By integrating digital manufacturing techniques with natural materials, the project bridges the gap between technology and ecology, fostering coexistence between urban environments and local wildlife.

    The project also emphasizes community engagement through a citizen science initiative in partnership with the Schulbiologiezentrum Hildesheim. This collaboration allows for the assessment of habitat quality while actively involving local residents in biodiversity conservation efforts. By combining expertise from diverse fields such as arts, sciences, algorithmic design, and additive manufacturing, Symbiotic Spaces explores multispecies relationships and serves as a model for sustainable urban development that enhances both ecological health and community well-being.

  • Peiner Träger GmbH is a steel production company committed to transforming its production processes towards decarbonization, implementing 100% steel scrap recycling and electric steel metallurgy since the mid-1990s.

    The Technical Customer Consulting department at Peiner Träger GmbH is a novel unit dedicated to promoting sustainable construction practices and advancing circular design principles in the building industry. Established in response to the urgent need for a comprehensive transformation in construction methods, this team of experts provides support to architects, planners, engineers, and project owners in developing and implementing decarbonization strategies for building projects.

  • The Center for Energy and Environment is an institution dedicated to promoting sustainable energy solutions and environmental education. Located in Springe, Germany, the center plays a crucial role in the region advancing circular design principles and fostering innovation in the field of sustainability. With its extensive expertise in renewable energy technologies and energy-efficient building practices, the center serves as a valuable resource for professionals, researchers, and the general public interested in creating a more sustainable future.

    As a key partner in the Circular Design Innovation alliance, the Energie und Umweltzentrum Springe contributes significantly to the dissemination of circular economy concepts. The center offers a wide range of educational programs, workshops, and practical training sessions that focus on sustainable building techniques, energy efficiency, and resource conservation. By collaborating with other alliance members and industry partners, the center helps drive the transformation towards more sustainable and circular design practices in architecture, urban planning, and various other sectors.

  • Netzwerk Baukultur is a collaborative initiative to promote architectural and urban design quality in Germany. It acts as a platform for dialogue between various stakeholders, including architects, urban planners, policy makers and the public, to promote sustainable and culturally sensitive development at national and international levels.

    Through joint efforts, the Netzwerk Baukultur seeks to influence policy, advocate for the integration of design excellence in public projects, and raise public awareness of the importance of architectural heritage and innovation in shaping livable cities.

  • The Hochschule Hannover is a higher education institution located in Hanover. It offers a wide range of practice-oriented programmes in five faculties, including engineering, media, design, business and social sciences. With a strong emphasis on applied research and collaboration with industry, the school provides students with practical skills and knowledge tailored to the demands of the professional world. The institution is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, combining academic with practical experience in fields such as technology, the arts and management.

    It is also committed to international cooperation, offering exchange programmes and fostering global partnerships. Its mission is to prepare students for real-life challenges through innovative teaching, research and a strong connection to industry and society.

All stakeholders of this observatory

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