Is there public debate on the quality of the place?

Obstmarkt is the heart of Herisau. Nestled between the town hall and the church, this former marketplace square is one of the largest open spaces in the village centre. Situated at the intersection of several traffic routes, the square also plays an important role in mobility. Traffic came to dominate Obstmarkt and took away much of its attractiveness. This was criticized by the population. In response, in 2020 the municipality announced a design competition for the use, refurbishment and redesign of Obstmarkt, which was won by BBZ Landschaftsarchitekten from Berne and the spatial and traffic planning firm Büreau Dudler from Biel.

Does the place have low traffic?

Since the mid-1970s, traffic in the centre of Herisau has been growing considerably. In front of the government building, Obstmarkt is now filled with parked cars. The redesign of Obstmarkt and the square in front of the church, which is expected to be completed by 2026, is intended to make Herisau’s historic village centre more inviting by reducing motorised traffic and eliminating the parking spaces. The two parts of Obstmarkt will be reunited by uniform paving and a restrained streetscape design.

Is the place distinguished by durable construction and little need for maintenance?

Once redesigned, Obstmarkt will once again reflect its significance as a historic marketplace and become a place for people to meet, chat and linger. To achieve this goal, no radical changes are needed, just some improvements to the existing conditions. For example, additional trees will be planted and more seating will be provided. Consideration will also be given to which of the existing surfacing materials – such as paving stones – can be reused.

Are the construction materials and methods durable, require little maintenance, and maintain or even enhance the place’s value?

Nowadays, the design of public spaces must take into account climate change and sustainability in general to ensure that these spaces are long lasting and low maintenance. Urban areas with sealed surfaces and a lack of greenery cause heat islands that heat up excessively during the day and cool down more slowly at night. On Obstmarkt and the square in front of the church, this effect will be counteracted by using paving that allows rainwater to soak into the ground and to later evaporate. In addition, robust and long-lived trees will provide shade and combat overheating.

Does the place ensure equality, freedom, safety and a reliable means of existence?

Herisau is located at the intersection of the connecting roads from St. Gallen to the Toggenburg region and from Gossau to Appenzell. The centres of St. Gallen and Gossau can be reached in ten minutes by public transport or by car. With a population of just under 16,000, Herisau is halfway between a town and a village, nestled in the rolling hills of Appenzell.

Does present-day design improve the quality of the existing?

The historic centre of Herisau, with its traditional houses and narrow alleys, has outstanding spatial qualities. From the middle of the 20th century, historic houses and alleyways were increasingly demolished to make way for new buildings. The result can still be seen today on Obstmarkt. Today’s topography and design are the result of numerous uncoordinated building activities that were undertaken around the square. The proposed gentle modelling of the terrain is intended to create a flowing space in the future, linking all the buildings together.

Does the quality of space improve people’s quality of life?

The rehabilitation of the village centre in Herisau includes various measures to improve the quality of life in the centre and give it a more welcoming atmosphere. The open, flowing design of the square will allow it to be used and adapted for a wide range of events and needs. The two bus stops will be moved closer to Obstmarkt to provide more space for people waiting for the buses and those getting on and off.

Does the place have an atmospheric impact on the beholder?

Herisau is listed in the Federal Inventory of Swiss Sites of National Importance (ISOS). Despite its close proximity to a large agglomeration, Herisau has retained its independent identity. The present configuration of the village centre dates back to its rebuilding after the fire of 1606. Traditional Appenzell wooden gabled houses from the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as houses from later centuries, characterise the core.