The canopy of intertwined tree crowns is not a period architecture that ages or becomes morally outdated. On the contrary, the paved surface of the square and Žižkov Street is a living form, and the canopy defines the square. It is not a gesture, but a living measure.
The Lower Square in Zábřeh is bustling. A busy street runs through it, and it serves as the main square with shops and public institutions (high school, library, office, post office) where the people of Zábřeh meet. Unfortunately, the current form of the square resembles more of a territory along the road. There are narrow sidewalks around the shops, which are encroached upon by the noses of cars.
Since Zábřeh has two squares, the first being a classic one with a castle and historic houses, paved with granite cobblestones, and has the potential to be a beautiful official historical space representing the town, we have decided to propose a different design for the Lower Square.
We want a place where you can get a little lost, walking freely under a canopy of greenery without being disturbed by the surrounding unkempt facades (there's not much you can do about them). You will encounter various events: a square with benches in the center offering a view of the sky – a traditional meeting place (we will keep it, just with new materials), a fountain with a trough referencing the presence of the water from a disappeared stream (the stream cannot be restored, as sewage is channeled into it), and a bridge with the reinstalled statue of Saint John of Nepomuk. These are references to history in a new context.
In spring, the trees bloom in shades of pink, gradually changing from vibrant spring green to dark summer hues, and culminating in orange in autumn. In winter, they can be adorned with today’s popular small Christmas lights. We have decided to establish the greenery (trees) as a work of art.
The newly paved area of the Square and Žižková Street is elevated to the level of the sidewalk, due to its status as a pedestrian zone. Events (markets, cultural activities) can take place freely in the square, depending on the type of event and its purpose. The square will continue to be accessible by a minimal single-lane one-way road with short-term parallel parking situated along the eastern front of the buildings. Parking has been relocated to the nearby cultural center, where there are available spaces. The new public space will be equipped with contemporary public lighting, furniture, and refined traffic signage.