Omar Harb

advisor

Phoenicia University

Lebanon

As an architect and founder of Omar Harb Architects & Associates, my work centers on creating… more

Feedback: Urban Design and Landscape Revitalization of Masaryk Square in Kyjov
This project presents a bold and impactful vision for the revitalization of Masaryk Square in Kyjov. Vít, your central idea of removing the parking lot from the heart of the square to create a vibrant living area is a strong, user-centric approach to urban public space.

Overall Concept and Vision
The project idea is exceptionally clear and addresses a common challenge in many European town centers: the dominance of vehicular traffic and parking over pedestrian life and public gathering. Your explicit goal of "cultivating the city center and returning to the original values of the square" by replacing the parking lot with a "living area" is a powerful statement of intent.

Project Description
The proposed interventions are strategic and well-detailed:

Traffic Modification: Unidirectionally routing the road and returning it to its original character is a thoughtful way to calm traffic and reclaim space for pedestrians.

Bus Stop Relocation: Moving the bus stop to the south side of the road centralizes public transport access and integrates it better with the re-envisioned square.

Parking Reconfiguration: Removing central parking while retaining cross parking is a pragmatic compromise, acknowledging the need for vehicle access while prioritizing public space.

Plane Tree Groves with Flexible Use: This is a particularly innovative and sustainable solution. Creating groves that allow for daytime parking and evening public use (like restaurant gardens) is brilliant for maximizing the square's utility and bringing life after hours. The active role of trees in reducing pavement temperature is a key environmental benefit.

Central Plaza and Pavilion: Designing the area in front of City Hall as the "most valuable space" for events, with a permanent pavilion (periscope and podium/shelter), creates a strong focal point and practical amenity.

Marian Column Relocation: Moving the column for better compositional and spatial integration with the Town Hall demonstrates attention to historical context and aesthetic refinement.

Community Centre Area: Proposing a flexible seating area here, similar to the grove, provides crucial support for various events and daily use.

Technical Information
The technical aspects of the design support its ambitious goals:

Paving Material: The use of various sizes of chipped granite for new paving suggests a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and contextually appropriate material choice.

Pavilion Construction: The combination of metal structures and concrete footings for the residential pavilion indicates a robust and efficient construction method.

Blue-Green Infrastructure: This is an outstanding technical detail. The elaborate system of drainage pipes connecting tree root spaces to allow water sharing is an advanced and highly effective strategy for ensuring the healthy growth of trees in an urban environment, providing a direct analogy to natural forest functioning. This greatly enhances the long-term sustainability and resilience of the green elements.

To further enhance this already strong project, consider these aspects:

Programmatic Specificity for the "Living Area": While "living area" is a great overarching concept, elaborate on the specific activities and amenities envisioned for the reclaimed central space beyond just "events" and "restaurant gardens." For example, are there dedicated areas for children's play, temporary markets, public art installations, or quiet zones for relaxation? How do these elements cater to diverse demographics and daily uses?

Visual Renderings and Phasing: While the description is clear, visual representations (sketches, renders) showing the transformation from parking lot to vibrant public space, especially illustrating the flexible use of the tree groves, would be highly impactful. Additionally, consider outlining a potential phasing strategy for such a significant intervention, minimizing disruption during construction and allowing the square to gradually adapt.

Integration of Water Features and Sensory Experience: Beyond water retention for trees, could water features (e.g., fountains, interactive jets) be integrated into the design to enhance the sensory experience, provide evaporative cooling, and create focal points within the revitalized square? How will lighting design contribute to the evening atmosphere and safety of the "living area"?