Flood protection in Germany

Zaha Hadid Architects have designed a modernisation and reinforcement of Neiderhafen’s flood protection system on the Elbe River in Hamburg, Germany, as well as a 625 metre river promenade.

When storm surge floods in 1962 killed 315 people and destroyed the homes of 60,000, Hamburg developed a barrier that would protect against floods as high as 7.2 metres above sea level.

But in 2006, when Niederhafen’s existing flood barrier was inspected and its supporting elements deemed overburdened, Zaha Hadid Architects won a competition to redesign the flood barrier, increasing its height by 0.8 metres.

The design includes a 625 metre promenade. Image credit - Piet Niemann.

Construction is now complete on the new barrier and promenade, reconnecting the riverside walkway to the city.

The development is in a prominent location that provides undisrupted views of the Elbe and Port. It is both a tourist attraction and an important public space, 8.6 metres above sea level in the eastern section, and 8.9 in the west.

Wide staircases carved into the flood barrier resemble small amphitheatres, with those oriented towards the intersecting city streets alternated with those facing the river. New pedestrian crossings connect each street with the river promenade, and street-level cycle lanes and ramps also enhance accessibility.

Zaha Hadid Architects won a design competition in 2006. Image credit - Piet Niemann.

The promenade is divided into two sections, with the west providing views downstream, and the east creating a more intimate atmosphere at the port’s marina. A long ramp alongside the eastern amphitheatre also leads visitors down to the water’s edge.

A minimum width of 10-metres offers ample space for pedestrians, joggers, performers, food stalls and cafes, and shops and public structures, such as a restaurant and two food kiosks, are located within the barrier. The top floor of the restaurant even cantilevers over one of the staircases, giving diners a panoramic view of the Elbe.

Storm surge floods in 1962 killed 315 people and destroyed the homes of 60,000 more. Image credit - Piet Niemann.

Pedestrian areas of the promenade are clad in dark, anthracite-coloured granite, which contrasts beautifully with the light-grey colour of the staircases.

This project forms part of a wider trend towards building flood resiliency for cities at a time of climate change- in Manhattan, Bjarke Ingels Group are currently developing a barrier system to protect against rising sea levels and tidal surges.

The barrier is designed to protect against floods as high as 7.2 metres above sea level. Image credit - Piet Niemann.