Farinha-Marques, P., 2006, New Parks for the Porto Region, in: Topos, 55, 9
- Author : Farinha-Marques, P.
- Year : 2006
- Title English : New Parks for the Porto Region
- Journal/Series : Topos
- Volume Number (ANNUAL: Counting Volumes of the Year shown above) : 9
- Volume Number (CONSECUTIVE: Counting all Volumes of this Journal ever published) : 55
- Pages : 78-81
- Abstract in English : Unlike the Lisbon region where a landscape architecture tradition is well established, the Porto Metropolitan Area has only recently started to show some interesting results in the design of public parks. Since the early 1990s, as Portugal has become increasingly urbanized, the Porto region has experienced a significant increase in public space construction. The public realm was enlarged and enriched with several projects designed by landscape architects; ranging from large parks (such as the 90 hectare Porto City Park) to proximity parks, pocket parks, riverfronts, seafronts and historic parks and gardens. Recent parks designed by Portuguese landscape architects display a certain local flair despite obvious global influences. Although a significant proportion of new projects rely on forms and materials made fashionable by leading international studios, a few remarkable approaches reflect a clear site-specific orientation determined by the topographic, climatic, ecological, historic and social character of the place. Some of the distinctive characteristics of Portuguese landscape design include the capability of working with steep slopes; the use of skilful stone construction techniques; an appreciation for details; and the capacity to adapt grand ideas to small spaces. Two of the most recent public parks in the Porto Metropolitan Area have followed a site-specific and sustainable approach, establishing an alternative to the tendency for overly-constructed landscapes. The concepts of both parks are focused on the natural values of the place, taking advantage of and enhancing existing vegetation, topography, and water features. The general layout works smoothly with the natural pulses of the ecosystems, combining recreation areas with the stimulation of biodiversity and therefore obtaining the maximum effect with little expense on construction and infrastructure. Woodlands, marshes, meadows, streams, wetlands and rock outcrops are the main vocabulary.
- Contents in English : -
- Comments/Notes : -