Zoning approved for eastern section of Blau.Quartier in Ulm, unlocking major urban development

The city of Ulm has approved the zoning resolution for the eastern section of the Blau.Quartier project, paving the way for one of Germany’s largest inner-city conversion developments. Spearheaded by Periskop Development—part of Periskop Partners—and its joint venture partner HLG Real Estate GmbH & Co. KG, the project will transform 6.6 hectares of riverside land along the Blau into a vibrant new residential and commercial neighborhood.

The approved section, known as “Blau.Quartier – Bauabschnitt Ost,” will include a mix of housing and services. Plans call for around 7,500 square meters of rental space designated for local services, about 2,000 square meters for additional retail, and facilities such as a medical center, office spaces, and a fitness studio. Additionally, approximately 110 apartments will be built with views overlooking the river.

The second construction phase will offer up to 1,000 apartments across 11 building plots ranging from 1,300 to 4,400 square meters. These plots will be made available for individual purchase, targeting regional investors, construction firms, and project developers looking to participate in the large-scale transformation.

Blau.Quartier has been designed as a model for sustainable urban development. Its mobility plan focuses on encouraging walking, cycling, public transport, and electromobility. The project will retain existing underground parking structures and parts of the original ground floors, while also recycling materials from previous buildings—preserving up to 20 percent of the original building mass. These measures are intended to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions during construction.

Environmental considerations are also embedded in the landscape design. Sealed surfaces will be removed, rainwater management systems improved, and rooftops will be equipped with photovoltaic systems and green spaces. The project aims to support irrigation needs through sustainable water use without drawing additional groundwater.

With the zoning plan now in place, Periskop Development and HLG Real Estate are moving forward with a key phase of what promises to become a major landmark in Ulm’s urban landscape.