RĖMĖJŲ PRITAIKYMAS PROJEKTE

This explanatory note discusses the design proposal for the regeneration of Skaudvilė town center, which has been selected for the “Išmanusis miestas IX” competition. The chosen area is situated in the central part of the town and is accessible from four different roads. It is surrounded by major streets like Tauragė, Upynos, Malūno, Kelmė, Vilniaus, as well as smaller streets. Notably, the central location of the area means it encompasses or is in close proximity to various vital town facilities, including a church, a special school, shops, the municipality building, a fire station, and a market square. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the adjacent area consists of residential single-family houses. This explanatory note discusses the design proposal for the regeneration of Skaudvilė town center, which has been selected for the “Išmanusis miestas IX” competition. The chosen area is situated in the central part of the town and is accessible from four different roads. It is surrounded by major streets like Tauragė, Upynos, Malūno, Kelmė, and Vilniaus, as well as smaller streets. Notably, the central location of the area means it encompasses or is in close proximity to various vital town facilities, including a church, a special school, shops, the municipality building, a fire station, and a market square. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the adjacent area consists of residential single-family houses. The issues pertaining to the area in question encompass several aspects. Currently, the situation lacks proper management, with underdeveloped spaces that lack a cohesive structure. The central spaces of the city are not open and fail to attract visitors, resulting in the area’s true potential being underutilized. Challenges include the absence of cultural amenities and leisure spaces, parking areas causing disturbances, and an urban network that fails to accurately depict the city’s essence. Throughout the design process, our approach involved visiting Skaudvilė and engaging with local residents and city representatives to understand their desires, concerns, and expectations. We also sought to identify the chosen area’s (and the city’s) weaknesses and strengths. Based on the feedback received, it became evident that the residents primarily require spaces that facilitate cultural and entertainment activities. They also expressed a longing for a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city, including a revitalized market square and more green spaces. Consequently, our design endeavors aimed to infuse vitality into the town, offering compelling reasons for people to visit and linger in Skaudvilė while reimagining its overall character. We made the decision to incorporate additional public green spaces within the central territory, enhance accessibility, and introduce new functionalities. The design process took into consideration both city-wide concerns and local issues, such as the lack of activity within the urban network, scarcity of green spaces, connectivity challenges, and insufficient amenities. The proposed solutions were intended to enhance residents’ quality of life and entice others to explore the area.

The town of Skaudvilė is shaped by four main axes - roads that lead to the square in the center of Skaudvilė, as well as a less defined natural axis that partially extends from the Skaudvilė pond towards the south. The main compositional accent of the town is an irregularly shaped rectangular square where the main axes intersect and visually connect, although most of the spaces around it are undefined and unformed. The existing visual connections from the town center are relatively weak, and the available relief is underutilized. Through analysis, it has been identified that there is an opportunity to create a connection towards the south, thereby strengthening the natural axis within the town and introducing new functions and attractions. There is also potential to establish a network of new connections with other parts of the town, supplementing existing connections and ensuring smooth movement within the town by connecting functions dispersed around the town center. Elaborating on this, the four main axes that converge at the town square play a crucial role in defining the urban structure of Skaudvilė. These axes serve as important routes that guide people into the heart of the town and create a sense of direction and orientation. They contribute to the overall circulation and accessibility of the town. The natural axis, originating from the Skaudvilė pond and extending towards the south, has the potential to become a significant element in the town’s composition. By developing and enhancing this axis, the town can establish a stronger connection with the surrounding natural landscape and create a more integrated and cohesive urban fabric. This could involve the introduction of green spaces, walking paths, and recreational amenities that complement the natural beauty of the area. The central square, with its irregular shape, serves as a focal point and gathering space for the community. However, the surrounding areas lack definition and proper design. By reimagining and shaping these spaces, the town can create a more coherent and visually appealing environment. Introducing well-defined pathways, landscaping elements, and public amenities can enhance the overall aesthetic quality and functionality of the square and its surroundings. Furthermore, the analysis suggests the opportunity to establish new connections and linkages with other parts of the town, enhancing accessibility and promoting a seamless flow of movement. By strategically placing functions and activities around the town center, it becomes a hub that facilitates connections between different areas and encourages a vibrant and interconnected urban experience. Overall, the proposed territorial project aims to optimize the urban structure of Skaudvilė by capitalizing on its existing axes, strengthening the natural axis, and creating a more defined and connected town center. The project envisions a harmonious blend of natural and built elements, promoting accessibility, community engagement, and a sense of place within the town.