Beyond Suburbia: Designing the Future of Hviezdoslavov

Idea projektu

The project envisions a long-term, sustainable transformation of Hviezdoslavov, a dynamically growing village located near Bratislava, Slovakia. Originally a small settlement, Hviezdoslavov has become a suburban residential area attracting young families seeking affordability and proximity to the capital. However, this rapid growth has created pressure on infrastructure, public services, and identity. The project responds to this condition by introducing a future-proof urban vision that integrates ecological responsibility, social inclusivity, and spatial quality. The aim is to create a resilient, human-centered settlement that balances low-density living with urban-level amenities. The core concept focuses on polycentric development structured around the railway station as a multimodal node, a continuous green corridor, and a sequence of vibrant public spaces. The project supports strong ecological integration, builds on natural assets such as gravel lakes, and promotes a walkable, community-oriented environment that reinforces both local identity and regional connections.

Popis projektu

The scope of the project covers the comprehensive spatial development of Hviezdoslavov over three time horizons: 5 years (short-term), 20 years (medium-term), and 50 years (long-term). The proposal includes a mix of housing typologies, civic and social infrastructure, ecological strategies, and mobility enhancements. Densities are carefully calibrated to evolve from low-density family housing to more compact residential blocks and mixed-use development along primary urban spines. Key components of the design include a new civic center, distributed public amenities (schools, healthcare, sports facilities), integrated green spaces, and a strategic railway corridor concept that supports park-and-ride systems and active mobility. A particular emphasis is placed on inclusive public spaces—such as community gardens, playgrounds, fire pits, and squares—that support both everyday use and seasonal activities. Landscape is treated as a structuring element, shaping both the built and unbuilt environments through rain gardens, green buffers, and biodiversity corridors.

Technické informácie

The project site spans a total area of 40.2 hectares, of which 7.1 hectares are built-up areas and 2.4 hectares are dedicated to public spaces. The green coefficient is 0.37, ensuring a healthy landscape-to-construction balance. The built-up index of 0.17 demonstrates a moderate development intensity that leaves ample space for greenery, biodiversity corridors, and public realm enhancement. The majority of the land (33.1 ha) remains unbuilt, offering high potential for ecological integration and phasing flexibility. The planned residential density is 25.3 inhabitants per hectare, totaling approximately 470 housing units. Parking is provided through a combination of 560 surface-level spaces and 719 covered spaces, meeting contemporary standards for both private and public mobility needs. A mix of low-rise (1–2 storeys), mid-rise (2–3 storeys), and apartment blocks (3–5 storeys) ensures a diverse urban fabric and population mix. The spatial structure supports walkability, social interaction, and stormwater management through strategically placed retention areas and green corridors. Technical solutions include permeable surfaces, underground garages, and biodiverse landscaping. The clear zoning between public, private, and ecological functions enhances legibility and long-term adaptability of the area, ensuring the project’s resilience over a 5, 20, and 50-year development horizon.