Omar Harb

advisor

USEK - Holy spirit University of Kaslik

Lebanon

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

Project Idea
Your core idea to create a green residential neighborhood situated strategically between an urban area and a UNESCO park is excellent. This presents both a significant opportunity and a challenge: to provide modern family housing while respectfully integrating with and protecting the natural and historical context. The emphasis on "green" suggests a commitment to environmental harmony, which is vital for such a location.

Project Description
The components you've included in your project are comprehensive for a master plan: a proposed site plan, public space design, and a concept for a model family house. This holistic approach demonstrates a strong understanding of neighborhood development, from the overarching layout down to the individual dwelling and communal amenities.

The inclusion of a detailed design for a public ground-floor element (a bicycle storage facility) is a practical and positive detail. It shows attention to the daily needs of residents and promotes sustainable transportation, aligning well with the "green neighborhood" concept.

Technical Information
Developing this as a Bachelor's thesis at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Urbanism and Spatial Planning, provides a solid academic grounding for the project. This background suggests a rigorous approach to the urban planning and technical aspects of the design.

Suggestions for Improvement
To make this project even stronger, consider expanding on these areas:

Elaborate on the "Green" Aspects: How specifically does your design ensure this is a "green" neighborhood beyond just being residential? Think about detailed strategies like permeable paving, retention ponds for rainwater, extensive native planting, communal green spaces, or even specific energy efficiency goals for the houses.
Contextual Integration with UNESCO Park: How does the design of the public spaces and the overall site plan respond to the unique character and regulations of the adjacent UNESCO park? Are there specific design elements that draw inspiration from the park, or measures taken to minimize visual or environmental impact on the protected area?
Community and Public Space Focus: You mention public space design. What kind of community life do you envision here? Are there planned features beyond the bicycle storage, such as playgrounds, community gardens, or gathering spots, that foster interaction among residents and create a strong sense of place?
By providing more detail in these areas, you can further showcase the depth and innovation of your master plan.

1. Articulating the "Green" Strategy with Specifics
Instead of just stating it's a "green neighborhood," delve into the concrete strategies that define its ecological character. This moves beyond a general concept to a detailed, actionable plan.

Integrated Water Management: How does your design specifically handle stormwater runoff? Consider concepts like Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) – permeable paving throughout public spaces, rain gardens, bioswales, or even small detention ponds that double as aesthetic features. Explain how these elements will recharge groundwater or reduce strain on municipal systems.
Biodiversity and Ecology: Beyond generic "native planting," specify how you'll enhance local biodiversity. This could involve creating habitat corridors, using plant species that support local pollinators and wildlife, or designing varied planting zones (e.g., meadows, tree clusters) that mimic natural ecosystems.
Energy and Resource Efficiency: Will the houses themselves incorporate specific passive design principles (e.g., optimized orientation for solar gain/shading, natural ventilation)? Are there provisions for renewable energy sources (e.g., rooftop solar panels, community-level geothermal)? Consider also waste management strategies like composting or shared recycling facilities.
2. Deepening the Contextual Dialogue with UNESCO Průhonice Castle Park
The proximity to a UNESCO site is a huge asset, but also a responsibility. Show how your design actively engages with and respects this unique historical and natural context.

Visual Integration and Buffer Zones: How do you manage the transition from the new development to the park? Are there specific setbacks, landscape buffers, or architectural language elements (e.g., material palette, roof forms) that visually harmonize with the park's character or historic vernacular? Think about key sightlines and how your project preserves or enhances them.
Accessibility and Connection: Beyond just being nearby, how does the neighborhood facilitate a meaningful connection to the park for its residents? Are there direct pedestrian/cycling paths, interpretive signage that highlights the park's significance, or even designated viewing points from within the neighborhood?
Environmental Protection Measures: What specific measures are in place to prevent negative impacts (e.g., light pollution, noise, runoff) from the new development on the protected UNESCO site? This demonstrates a high level of responsibility.
3. Fostering Community and Identity Through Public Spaces
You've mentioned public space design and a bicycle storage facility. Expand on how these, and other elements, will cultivate a strong sense of community and unique identity for the neighborhood.

Hierarchy of Public Spaces: Beyond just "public spaces," consider a hierarchy of communal areas. This could include larger central greens for events, smaller pocket parks for quiet relaxation, play areas for children, or even shared workshops/sheds for DIY activities.
Active and Passive Recreation: How do your public spaces cater to both active (e.g., sports courts, running paths) and passive (e.g., benches, shaded picnic areas) recreation?
Placemaking Elements: What unique features will give the neighborhood its own character? Think about distinct street furniture, public art, water features, or specific landscape designs that make it memorable and encourage social interaction. How can the bike storage facility be more than just utilitarian – perhaps integrated with seating, a small repair station, or even a community notice board?
By detailing these aspects, your project will move from a well-conceived plan to a truly exemplary model of sustainable, contextually sensitive, and community-oriented urban development.

Dear Omar Harb,
Thank you very much for your comments on my work. The bachelor thesis portfolio actually includes more detailed information on the topics you mentioned, such as rainwater runoff, ecological management of the family house, and specific types of greenery used. I realize it's probably no longer possible to upload additional materials to the competition, but I still really appreciate your feedback — it will help me improve the project for my personal portfolio. Thank you! David Zizka