Possibilities of Transformation of Public Space in Multi-Family Housing Estates in Polish Conditions – Case of the Bajka Estate in Bydgoszcz-Fordon

Abstract

Abstract Multi-family housing estates created in the above mentioned over a period of time they were characterized by very modest use of public space and underdevelopment of basic equipment with parking spaces and social, cultural and recreational infrastructure. The main activity of investors was the construction of apartments, and the development of housing estates was considered as secondary. It should be noted that in their housing estates residents spend a significant part of their lives and public spaces in housing estates should be friendly to residents and meet the needs of all residents. The methodology for developing the concept consisted of analyzing the current state of knowledge, collected source materials and documents related to the area. Analysis of the existing state was carried out in the field of: public space development, transport service and infrastructure, road safety, types of property, greenery and spatial composition, which indicated the spatial and program conditions and possibilities of transformation. To find out the residents’ needs, a survey was conducted, the results of which were guidelines for the assumptions of the proposed project. The results of survey showed that the public space of the Bajka (Fairly) Housing Estate needs a variety of activities that would increase its functional and aesthetic value, and improve the living environment, taking into account the needs and mobility of all ages groups residents. Respondents consider it necessary to supplement the development of public space with elements of small architecture. Existing undeveloped areas in the housing estate were used to transform the public space of the estate. and was divided into 3 areas: a. In Area A, which was envisaged as an area with a dominant recreational, sports and social function, The Socio-Cultural Pavilion as a year-round place for meetings and integration of residents as well as the development of technical and social facilities of existing tennis courts, as well as a playground and an outdoor exercise area. b. In Area B, new development was designed in the form of a housing estate square and a water reservoir that would serve the rest of the residents. c. Area C, which connects Areas A and B, creates Fairytale Trail - a pedestrian path along which the brass figurines of Polish fairy tale heroes were designed. In the aspect of the spatial composition, this pedestrian route is at the same time a compression element for Areas A and B. In the transportation service aspect, a traffic calming zone was developed by implementing technical solutions limiting speed and the possibilities of converting existing surface parking lots and garages into cubature solutions located outside the housing estate are shown. Presented case showed the possibilities of implementing various outdoor and cubature development, which can significantly improve the living environment, as well as the aesthetics and quality of public space.