An integrated design approach of a contemporary urban development

摘要

Often green spaces are designed regardless of the surrounding context. Local governing bodies need to address more effectively the challenges associated with urban growth. The area of Patima I within the Municipality of Halandri, located in Athens Greece constitutes a typical case of urban development of the recent years in the region of Attica, where construction activity has been particularly heavy. Construction followed a fast pace that did not match the usually slow development of the necessary public spaces nor was it well combined with whatever minimum and limited free spaces were provided by the town plan. The present paper attempts to propose a landscape design for selected public spaces in the Patima I area, aiming at providing an integrated aesthetic, functional, ecological and environmental friendly approach for each space separately and as a whole. Particular aspects of the design proposal are emphasized, these include the use of native plant species, enhancement of local landscape character and history, integration of public needs, development of green corridors, and the use of environmental-friendly hard materials.