social aspect
In rebuilding public spaces, it is particularly important to listen to the needs of the public. Space without people does not exist. Despite using the best design techniques, no revitalization will have the desired effect if it does not meet the expectations and needs of the people who are supposed to function in that space. To this end, numerous discussions, surveys, polls and public consultations are conducted. In order to preserve the authenticity of an area, it should meet not only the expectations of the general community that could settle there, but especially local residents. These are the people who build the historical value of the space and are particularly connected to it. By maintaining a balance between the guidelines for these two groups, a given space is transformed and modernized without stripping it of its identity, truth and tradition.
Tempelhofer Feld, a park at the old Tempelhof airport in Berlin
photo: Matti Blume | Wikimedia Commons © CC BY 4.0
An example of a city cooperating with its residents is Berlin. There, revitalization plans for four airports - Gatow, Tempelhof, Schönefeld and Tegel - have been developing in recent years. Two of them are already closed, and another will also be shut down to be replaced by the emerging Berlin Brandenburg Airport. It has proven to be quite a challenge to revitalize such large spaces and give them new, useful functions. The city sought public opinion in anticipation of a solution to this issue. From numerous discussions, it emerged that the space should be used for urban greenery, recreational and public access areas. Even after the airport itself was closed, the area was frequented by neighboring residents. The runways were made available to cyclists, skaters and joggers. A special space with a lawn was designated for dog walkers. Various fairs and cultural events were held on the tarmac. Cooperation between the city government and its residents resulted in the development of an inclusive, useful and people-friendly space.
pro-environmental approach
In the face of the existing climate crisis, a pro-ecological approach is becoming an equally important aspect in the revitalization processes of devastated areas. Urban centers are spaces that are particularly poor in green areas. This is one of the reasons why people move out of city centers to the suburbs or countryside. In the process of revitalization, a study of the natural value of an area is carried out at the very beginning. Existing animal, insect and plant species in the area are studied. The condition of land and water is determined. If it is a brownfield site, it is cleaned of toxins and other chemical compounds that have lain there for years. An attempt is made to restore the stagnant land to its original state. In shaping the new function of the space being developed, special attention should be paid to the introduction of parks, squares and other green recreational space. However, all these activities should respect the studies of the existing ecosystem there.
High Line in Paris
Photo: Nicolas Vollmer | Wikimedia Commons © CC BY 2.0
A city where green spaces are readily intermingled with building quarters is Paris. Due to historical conditions, revitalization processes there are particularly precisely shaped and implemented. In taking care of the valuable urban fabric, the importance of green areas is not forgotten. One example that weaves greenery into the city's streets is the adaptation of the area after the former Vincennes railroad tracks. It was decided to convert the abandoned railroad line into a green walking tract. The tract measures about 4.6 kilometers in length, is partly at street level and partly rises to a height of about 10 meters, passing through old historic viaducts under which art galleries are located. Along the tract grow trees, grasses, shrubs and flowers. It is especially important for local residents who wish to find a respite and avoid routes frequented by tourists.
