Since spring 2024, the interdisciplinary team at the office str.ucture has been developing parametric trellises: modular construction plans that adapt to any balcony.
Urban heat islands. Hardly any shade
A DIY trellis for more shade and fresher air
A cool oasis + a small harvest on your balcony
WHAT IS STR.AUCH
str.auch is a project dedicated to combating urban overheating. It’s a modular trellis system that brings shade where people actually want to spend time. Funded by Klima-Innovationsfond.
In Stuttgart’s city center, balconies and rooftop terraces turn into heat traps during the summer. At times, it gets so hot that staying outside becomes nearly impossible. The surrounding buildings store heat, intensifying the problem.
Plants can significantly improve the local microclimate. Climbing plants like beans offer natural shade and help cool the air, right where people live, relax, and spend time.
str.auch makes that effect easy to apply. With a digital configurator, users receive a custom trellis design tailored to their specific balcony. All it takes is a few standard materials from the local hardware store.
What was once an overheated outdoor space becomes a small, leafy cool zone.
A bit of DIY, a few plants and a big impact.
The first str.auch trellis was installed in spring 2024 on our own office terrace. This is where we observed how it grows, performs, and feels in everyday use. Since 2025, the first official prototype has been thriving at Etzelfarm in Stuttgart.
Prototype 1
Rooftop terrace,
Stuttgart
Prototype 2
Etzelfarm,
Stuttgart
Prototype 3
your location
your café
your office
Apply now!
CONFIGURATOR
At the heart of the project is the digital str.auch configurator. Simply enter your balcony measurements and watch a custom trellis design come to life perfectly tailored to your space. The configurator is currently in beta. You can explore, input your dimensions and preview your design. Blueprints and materials lists are not available yet.
Too much sun on your balcony?
Grab a tape measure and size up your balcony
Enter your dimensions and preview your design
Want to grow your own str.auch?
We are still looking for two more locations to host the next large prototype. If you have a café, an office, or a public space where people enjoy spending time outdoors, feel free to apply now.
Or maybe you have a balcony and want to stay informed? Join our interest list. We will notify you when the project gets underway.