From freight station to urban district
Wolf Basel stands for the intelligent repurposing of a historic logistics site. In the heart of Basel, a model neighborhood is being built on over 160,000 square meters. Here, living, working, leisure, and innovative logistics come together to create an urban living space for future generations.
The transformation will begin in 2027 with the first phase of development in the western part of the site. Around 600 flats will be built, a third of which will be affordable cooperative flats. The aim is to attract a diverse population and combine urban density with social diversity. The Urban Hub will become the lively centre of the neighbourhood. It will combine gastronomy, sport, culture and services and act as a link between residential buildings and commercial areas.
The second phase of development will begin in the east of the site in 2031. Modern service and commercial buildings will create around 1,000 jobs and unlock the site’s potential for business, innovation and city logistics. Its central location at the railway station and its connection to the regional transport network reinforce its function as an urban hub in Basel.
Focus on architecture, sustainability and flexible use
The master plan consistently follows the principles of ecological and sustainable urban development. The new perimeter block development is based on the sponge city principle and integrates historic railway buildings into the courtyard concept. This ensures a pleasant microclimate, promotes biodiversity and improves rainwater management. Buildings such as Janus and Binaria impress with reused components, modular wood and metal elements, green and accessible roofs, and photovoltaic surfaces. The flexible construction guarantees reparability, ease of maintenance and subsequent conversion.
Cultural and social start-up initiatives strengthen neighbourhood identity
Even before construction begins, the area is being actively revitalised through innovative temporary uses. SBB is opening historic warehouses for culture, gastronomy and sport. One example is pickleball, which offers 2,000 square metres of space and attracts new players. Rental space for creative and social initiatives is also available. These pioneering uses create proximity to the neighbourhood population and promote creative participation. In particular, the broad participation process, in which the public, associations and organisations are involved from the outset, guarantees acceptance and innovation.
Mobility, smart city and quality of life as a guiding principle
People are at the centre, with technology and sustainability as the supporting pillars. A city logistics hub in the eastern area ensures resource-efficient goods distribution in Basel and the surrounding area. Modern mobility services and integration with public transport are an integral part of the neighbourhood strategy. The SBB’s scientifically supported quality of life model, developed in collaboration with the University of Basel, makes Wolf Basel a laboratory for innovative solutions in energy, circular economy and social cohesion.
Wolf Basel is creating an inspiring neighbourhood that combines urban densification, sustainability, smart networking and social diversity. In this way, Basel is growing not only spatially, but also socially and technologically into the future.