“Krakivskyi” Residential Quarter

The “Krakivskyi” residential complex is a large, 6-hectare development, with landscape design developed across 7 stages. Each stage was treated as a separate project, so that the complex as a whole would feel as varied as possible.

The first two stages aimed to resolve existing problems as quickly as possible and improve the quality of the already-built space. These two stages are now complete and realized. The remaining five stages are currently at the concept stage, awaiting further design development and implementation.

The third stage is a public space set on complex terrain, its main feature being a stream that collects rainwater. It runs the length of the space and ends in small pools at either side. Water has always drawn children in, so on dry days the little stream can be brought to life for play using a toy pump. Another defining element of the space is a natural amphitheater on the slope, oriented to take in the sunset.

The fourth and fifth stages are the spaces between the residential buildings. Each has its own distinctive feature — a signature element the space will be associated with — such as the wooden deck in the fourth courtyard, and a concrete wave-form sculpture (doubling as a skate park) in the fifth stage.

The sixth stage is a sports and recreation space with a pocket park facing the street. During the day, the mini-football and basketball courts are used entirely by the neighboring school; after classes, they’re open to all residents of the complex. The play area, with its large swing set, and the outdoor exercise equipment are always open to anyone who wants to use them. The pocket park serves as a kind of waiting area near the school for students and parents, with space to relax and play table tennis.

The seventh stage is a concept for a typical courtyard, which can be replicated across similar quarters as needed. The courtyard, as the core of the quarter, is conceived as a private room filled with trees, greenery, play areas, and a place to relax. Because of the site’s difficult terrain, the courtyard sits below the surrounding grade, which makes it feel even more intimate and cozy. At the edge of the quarter is another public space with a more urban character, including a spot for a small coffee shop.