Prague – Studio Perspektiv succeeded in a landscape competition organized by the Prague 12 district for the revitalization of the park area in Sofia Square in Modřany. The winning design brings a sustainable transformation of public space that naturally connects the urban environment with the nature of the Modřany ravine and creates a new center for community life in the neighborhood.
The aim of the design is to improve everyday use and movement in the area, support natural values, and provide quality facilities for recreation, creativity, and community meetings. The concept is based on the principles of blue-green infrastructure and responds to the needs of local residents and visitors.
"Our goal was to create a space that is not just a beautiful park but a truly vibrant square – a place where the city meets nature, and where people can be together. The revitalization of Sofia Square brings Modřany a new heart of public life that is open, transparent, and sustainable," said Ján Antal, Managing Partner at Studio Perspektiv.
The design works with several interconnected zones that reflect different ways of using the space – from the waiting area at the bus stop through the park area for quiet relaxation to spaces with play elements and venues for cultural and community events. This allows the square to naturally host everyday situations as well as extraordinary events such as markets, exhibitions, or concerts.
The individual zones of the design create a smooth sequence from the waiting area at the bus stop to the park heart of the square. Expanded entrance areas of buildings and new paved surfaces clarify movement and increase the safety of waiting. A water feature is added along the axis of the main entrance for refreshment and cooling, along with a pergola offering shade and seating; the removal of dense, unpromising plantings improves views and accessibility. The park will offer a natural playground made of materials and shapes resonating with greenery and a quiet oasis under the tree crowns. A shaded area for cyclists is created for short stops, refilling water, and minor repairs, naturally linked to the existing bike path. The space lives through the seasons – in winter, the traditional Christmas tree becomes the center of community activity.
The material concept is based on the naturalness of the place – it utilizes wood, stone, and other natural materials that ensure long-term sustainability and visual harmony with the surrounding landscape. The plant concept combines native species of trees, shrubs, and perennials that support biodiversity and are low-maintenance.
"Greenery and water are key for the design. We wanted Sofia Square to function naturally and sustainably – without complex technologies and with minimal maintenance costs. We utilize the principles of rainwater infiltration, permeable materials, and terrain modeling, which together support natural water management and the vitality of the greenery," adds Kristýna Stará, Head of Planning at Studio Perspektiv.
Sofia Square has a strategic location in the heart of Modřany – it is located between residential neighborhoods and in close proximity to the Modřany ravine. The design preserves and professionally cares for the existing trees, improves the visibility and safety of the space, and complements it with new furniture and pleasant nooks for seating.
The revitalization will bring to Modřany a safe, green, and welcoming public space that will serve all generations – from children to seniors, from cyclists to visitors of local markets.