Parking space as an important part of urban design
At the beginning of 2022, there were almost 50 million cars registered in Germany—the highest number ever, and the trend is rising. Although alternative mobility concepts are on the rise, cars are (still) an integral part of our everyday lives. Accordingly, they shape our cityscapes as well as our air and our urban climate.
Parking spaces are as sought-after as they are scarce in most cities. But not all parking spaces are the same – the various models have their advantages and disadvantages. Above-ground parking spaces, for example at the side of the road, offer many people the opportunity to park close to their apartment or house, but the cars and surfaces heat up quickly and release the heat into their surroundings. In addition, such parking spaces are usually sealed surfaces. Underground parking areas, for example in underground garages, on the other hand, offer central locations for parking cars. This may involve longer walking distances, but the areas and cars are protected from the sun and therefore heat up much less. It is also not uncommon for underground garages to have several levels, meaning that there are more parking spaces on the sealed floor area than in above-ground parking areas.
Added to these considerations are the different needs of users. Long-term parking spaces or short-term use, secure spaces or not, isolated or as park & ride with connections to local transport – there is lively demand for all these possible uses. That is why we are dedicated to the efficient management of parking space, keeping both users and the environment in mind.
