Unveiling the Project
In the heart of Valencia, Spain, lies the Santa María Mazzarello Square, a once-lost space within the neighborhood now revitalized by the visionary work of HDH arquitectos. The project, aptly named “Playground Landscapes,” seeks to transform the area into a vibrant hub for leisure and social interaction. Nestled in a verdant urban oasis and shielded from vehicular traffic, the square serves as a vital link between Av. De La Constitució and Av. Primado Reig.
A Playground Landscape
Central to the project’s ethos is the notion of creating a playground landscape where children can freely express their creativity and imagination. Departing from conventional playground designs featuring predefined structures like castles or houses, HDH architects advocate for a more open-ended approach. The aim is to foster spontaneous play and exploration by providing children with versatile elements that encourage imaginative engagement.
Design Philosophy
The design philosophy revolves around the concept of creating a free-form system that empowers children to invent their own game rules and narratives. The space is meticulously crafted to stimulate creativity through a variety of surfaces, materials, and shapes. Two distinct yet interconnected play planes offer diverse opportunities for exploration, with traditional elements like climbing structures and slides seamlessly integrated to enhance the experience.
Community Integration
Through the intervention of HDH arquitectos, Santa María Mazzarello Square has been reclaimed as a community asset, shedding its past associations with neglect and misuse. The revitalized space now serves as a focal point for neighborhood activities, fostering social cohesion and interaction. From tranquil green zones ideal for relaxation to dynamic play areas designed to ignite the imagination, the square caters to a diverse range of users and activities.
Restoring Identity
As visitors traverse the redesigned park, they encounter a tapestry of experiences, from tranquil green spaces to bustling play areas. Each zone unfolds like a chapter in a story, leading participants on a journey of discovery and delight. By reclaiming its identity as a vibrant community space, the Santa María Mazzarello Square stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in revitalizing urban environments and enriching the lives of residents.
