We have devised a landscape architecture design for an urban forest located in a scenic village of Galchino. An important feature of this urban forest is that it is located far from large settlements, which makes it a real natural courtyard for the locals. For the landscape design, we chose a style ideally fit for a small park. Small population and mostly low-rise buildings nearby allowed us to create a park with an intimate feel that well combines the air of cozyness and wilderness.
When working on the forest design, we considered the fact that there is a green patch next to each house for people to spend time in the open air, which is why the forest should be bright and filled with a range of amenities for it to become an attractive place for people to take a stroll and socialize. The solutions we chose are reflected in architectural shapes and the intense green colour used in the design.
An important approach we used when making the design was minimal interference into the plan and the amenities of the forest, which helped us preserve its natural beauty and authenticity. Even the shapes of street furniture show the play on the originally incompatible shapes - natural curved ones and manmade straight ones. Different elements used in the project refer to various elements taken from nature: a pine tree bark, plant branches, mosses.
In the urban forest, you can find two natural landmarks: an old quarry and a spring with clear water, which turns to a stream. The quarry surrounded by huge pine trees has steep topography. It offers beautiful views and it is something worth coming for even from afar. The project entails viewpoints in the most picturesque spots that ensure safety as well, taking into account the steep incline.
To take a stroll along the stream fed from the spring, we set up a boardwalk that will be useful for both the locals and the visitors coming to enjoy the nature and the countryside. Renewed the downhill runs and metal staircases, as well as created spots for rest, bridges, and wooden paths on piles.
Another natural feature is a wide clearing splitting the forest into two and overgrown with meadow grasses and wildflowers, where we will set up an obstacle course for the local schoolchildren. Deep in the forest, in the fir grove, a cozy area for picnics will be created featuring lantern illumination and separate plots with charcoal grills and tables for the public. There are areas in the forest for different population groups, including a playground and a sports ground, as well as areas for quiet rest. At the entrance, there will be rentals with a vending machine and lavatories.
The project is done together with the Ministry of Landscape Architecture of the Moscow Region.
