IN SUSPENSION | Castle Route fragment transformation for multifunctional space recreation in Szczecin

Project idea

An analysis of the direction of transformation of the aquatic areas in Europe is the basis for finding the answer to the question whether the public space is an important element of revitalization and how it affects the development of the city and its inhabitants. A particular stimulus conditioning the development of the city are areas of interesting and rich history, providing a basis for their creative use in terms of the needs of users but also for the promotion of the city. Public spaces determine the identity of cities, located in the vicinity of water fronts, becoming particularly attractive due to the open space and the landscape that is noticeable in it, so desirable in the dense buildings of the city and the role of water. The project is a combination of unused areas under the bridge, recreational, sports and urban space. It connects two different parts, integrating the city and its inhabitants along the river.

Project description

Transformation of selected fragments of the Castle Route focuses on the problem of unused and undeveloped fragments of cities, often areas with high landscape and spatial potential. The revitalization process itself is now a common phenomenon and the most spectacular attempt to transform cities around the world. Adaptation of these areas to new functions makes them often become new "hearts of cities" and as a result of transformations of the spatial layout their new identity is created. One of the main reasons for the revitalization of these areas is the growing demand of residents for this type of places, characterized by a rich past and tradition. The social dimension is based on the assumption that society is also the subject and creator of the revitalization process. The goal is also to increase the attractiveness and shape of public spaces that are interesting for the modern user, making full use of the water neighborhood, such as riverside boulevards, bicycle and walking paths, gardens or water parks. The cultural dimension of revitalization is in a special way related to respecting the existing values, reflecting the "genius loci" of the place with the preservation of traditions connected with water and the protection of historical heritage.

Technical information

The concept of land development focuses on two banks of the Odra River facing each other and a fragment of the Castle Route elevation running alongside. The first stage of the project involves planting green areas within the bridge, mainly in its central part. The idea of introducing plantings was based on the fact that in the city center there are no free areas for green areas, but also the ecological aspect contributed to this. The greenery would at least to some extent compensate for the damage caused to the environment by the intense urbanization process, absorbing the smog hovering over the Castle Route and filtering the polluted air. The next stage of the project was to create the most attractive and affordable public space that would improve the recreational value of the city. The proposed concept assumes the creation of basins on the river on both sides, which would become urban bathing sites and attract residents. The pool located on the river flowing through the city center gives a unique opportunity to take a bath in the middle of the metropolis and lets you feel the city in a completely different way. In addition, the space has been divided into specific parts for various forms of rest or recreation. Sport became the main motif in the planned assumption, there were pitches, bike paths and open green areas ensuring continuous traffic. The terrain was also enriched with places for extreme sports enthusiasts, climbing walls based on the existing pillars of the bridge and a skatepark. The project also includes a space for picnics and resting on hammocks, enriched with outdoor cinema, and a bar.