The bridge, as a central design element, forms the basis of the proposed new landmark for Sarajevo. Its monumental scale, central location within the bustling community, and modern design create a striking visual impact, significantly enhancing the planned park’s structural integrity. The bridge’s design symbolizes the traditional Bosnian folded pie, while its contemporary architecture and distinctive color scheme represent Sarajevo’s arrival in the modern era of urban design. However, the primary rationale for its spiral design is to maximize visitor engagement within the park. Visually, it bisects the park, introducing dynamic interest to the otherwise tranquil and simply designed green space. Additional features include a versatile open area incorporating a standard water feature with nozzles. This feature serves a practical purpose beyond aesthetics, providing evaporative cooling on hot summer days. The multi-functional area is designed to accommodate diverse events, including concerts, markets, and exhibitions. For such events, the water feature will be drained to create a pedestrian walkway.
The bridge, as a central motif, functions as a type of auditorium by incorporating the potential for various events. In addition to the open, multi-functional area, the redesigned park features designated spaces for canines, children, permanent art installation, and seating areas conducive to both relaxation and work. Throughout the park, designated quiet zones provide restorative spaces for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural soundscape. The existing art installation has been fully preserved and relocated to an alternate micro-location within the park, maintaining the original pathways within the conceptual design.
The conceptual design largely maintains existing terrain levels. However, the design necessitates significant soil excavation to create the planned green hillsides. These hillsides serve a dual purpose: to complement the surrounding Sarajevo landscape and to mitigate noise pollution from adjacent roadways and traffic. Concurrently, the hillsides enhance the children’s safety within the park.
The park design incorporates three distinct levels. The first level features a “valley” area encompassing children’s playgrounds, benches, a multi-functional area with a water feature, a gravel area, and a birch forest. The second level incorporates the existing park terrain, featuring seating and work areas, an existing art installation, a dog park, and an exhibition space for local artists. These amenities are designed as small, urban pockets. The third level incorporates a bridge, its design symbolizing the architectural vision of Sarajevo’s progress and modern transformation.
This conceptual design utilizes readily available materials: primarily greenery and lawns. Secondary materials, facilitating potential interventions, include three shades of concrete paving and gravel. The bridge and urban furniture utilize stainless steel, as a tertiary material. Given Sarajevo’s climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and hot summers, the material’s paramount attributes are its durability and resistance to all weather conditions.