PRATO, Le parc central

Italy

PRATO, Le parc central

Italy

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The urban fabric of Prato draws its uniqueness from its extreme symmetry. Aligned along the lines of the ancient Roman Cardo Decumanus, the orthogonal grid that makes it up is striking in its permanence. In order to recover the dimensions of such a layout, the three hectares freed up at the heart of the ramparts become a park made up of a vegetal and mineral composition developed from a figural interpretation of its unique cartography : aerial views of Prato. This graphic process allows for the geometrical arrangement of mineral and planted surfaces, rigorously demarcated by sculptural parallel hedges. A high stratum of trees dominates the park from above, while less regulated plantings are added to those already existing. The sequence of hedges multiplies the number of vanishing points and bifurcations possible, while creating spaces whose dimensions are similar to those of the public squares in the historical city center. The Luigi Pecci Center for Contemporary Art is located adjacent along the Avenue de la République. The main elements of vegetal, mineral, and water, interact and play off one another here for the creation of architectural spaces which house artistic components.

data
Year:
2016
Status:
Ongoing
Program:
Parks, Public spaces
Client:

Comune di Prato

Project Team:

MDP Michel Desvigne Paysagiste (lead consultant) / OBR / Intertecno

Area:

3,3 ha (7,5 acres)