Paving solution combines aesthetics, function and accessibility: Kaiserplatz Düren

Figure: Berlin & Cramer

The Vajo design paving system made by Kann was selected for the new appearance of Kaiserplatz in Düren. It puts the outside area in the limelight, while being load-bearing and easy to clean

Figure: Berlin & Cramer

Integrated slabs with grooves and studs, in particular, make the pedestrian zones close to the bus lanes safe for blind and visually impaired people

Figure: Berlin & Cramer

To make the square visually more lively, the Vajo paving slabs were installed in different shades of gray

Figure: Berlin & Cramer

The tactile guidance system for the blind formally serves as a caesura between the gray Vajo paving slabs and the cobblestone pavement at the fringe area of the square

Figure: Berlin & Cramer

The centrally located Kaiserplatz square in the German town of Düren was re-designed as part of an urban development master plan. The Vajo design paving system made by Kann GmbH was used here, serving as a historical reference, highlighting the prestigious character of the area, while being load-bearing and easy to clean. This article is an excerpt from the project report published in our „Beton Bauteile 2025“ yearbook.

Historical context

As being located in the heart of the city, the square „Kaiserplatz“ had ever been of central importance. The cattle market took place there in the Middle Ages. The square was given its name, when a monument to Emperor William I was erected there in 1891. After the city center of Düren had been largely destroyed in the Second World War, the whole area was rebuilt, with reducing the density. The new town hall was also built there. The square got larger dimensions and was extended to a traffic hub with tram stations and car parking spaces. A first re-design took place in the...