Urban Park Loka
Our competition proposal reimagines the connection between the city and the Krka River, creating a vibrant public space where nature and urban life flow together. Two key pathways—the River Promenade and Activity Lane—shape immersive outdoor rooms inspired by the river’s natural movement.
The park balances ecology and recreation, enhancing biodiversity and fostering a layered experience of movement, rest and interaction. The active program, among others, includes dedicated spaces for skateboarding, climbing, basketball, beach volleyball, and open play areas, fostering inclusivity for all users.
Anchored by the central square and city beach, Urban Park Loka strengthens the city’s link to the river, offering a dynamic space for gathering, play, and relaxation.
Reconnecting the City with Nature
Urban Park Loka redefines the relationship between the city and the Krka River, creating a dynamic public space where urban life and nature seamlessly converge. The design enhances accessibility to the river while fostering a layered experience of movement, rest, and interaction. Two primary pathways—the River Promenade and the Activity Lane—structure the park, guiding visitors through a series of immersive outdoor rooms inspired by the river’s meandering flow and distinctive “lehnjak” stone formations. These spaces balance ecological integrity with recreational and social opportunities, reinforcing the park’s role as a vibrant public realm.
Ecology and Landscape
Ecological preservation is integral to the design, ensuring the park remains both resilient and sustainable. Strategic coppicing of over-mature Willows and Ash trees improves light penetration and airflow, supporting habitat vitality. New plantings establish a robust tree canopy, while reedbeds and rhizomatous vegetation enhance biodiversity and flood resilience. The River Promenade, a raised wooden platform, provides flood protection while serving as a linear seating edge with panoramic river views. Floating pontoons extend into the water, strengthening the park’s connection to the river.
Activity and Community Spaces
The park offers diverse recreational opportunities for all user groups. Under the railway and road bridges, an urban sports area integrates an existing climbing wall with a new bouldering wall. Additional amenities include street workout stations, table tennis, and a social hangout space. A dedicated skateboard quarter ramp marks the park’s western entrance. Existing basketball courts and skate areas have been transformed into a multifunctional space, expanding an open grass field for relaxation and play. At the heart of the park, the Central Square and City Beach serve as key gathering spaces, activating the waterfront and strengthening the city’s link to the river. On the eastern side, renovated beach volleyball courts, surrounded by a running track, can be adapted for international competitions. Open, unregulated play areas and inclusive playgrounds for all age groups further ensure the park remains a welcoming space for the entire community.
Location
Novo Mesto, Slovenia
Year
2024
Status
Competition
Size
28000m²
Team
Skupina Štajn, FAUL students, David Gough (Mareld)
