Setting new norms for sustainable everyday behaviors in Korneuburg

A carbon neutral ambition

With its industrial past as one of the biggest shipyards in Austria, and location in a nature protection area covering some of Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats, the Korneuburg Master Plan offered heritage, an expansive water view, and an inviting waterside public space. Within this versatile context, the aim was not only to create a carbon neutral development, but to design invitations for sustainable everyday behavior. Gehl led the Master Plan, Public Space Plan and Landscape Plan, while collaborating with six leading international building architects in an integrated design process.

The resulting master plan incorporates renewable energy sources — harnessing water, solar, and wind — to power the neighborhood. ‘Die Werft’ is planned to generate its own electricity and manage cooling and heating systems without releasing CO2. A micro mobility hub encourages residents to adopt sustainable mobility habits by prioritizing cycling and walking while also banning cars from entering the neighborhood.

‘Die Werft’ promises not only to preserve the natural habitat but also to foster a community where sustainable everyday behaviors are the norm. Gehl’s contribution demonstrates the potential for creating harmonious, eco-friendly urban environments, offering an inspiring model for future urban regeneration projects.