Perhaps you’re thinking of a different kind of garden? Jardin Velten is no ordinary green space. It is a carefully designed area to foster community and bring nature into the city. Completed in 2019, this 4500 m2 space cost 878,000 to build.
The Jardin Velten project focused on creating outdoor public spaces. Architects consider this a unique exercise. They essentially built empty space. The goal was to create a cohesive design. A central mall acts as the backbone. Other elements connect to it. This mall also helps navigate the garden’s different levels.
Jardin Velten is divided into zones. There is Zone A for children aged 3 to 6. This area features a pedagogical garden. It also has a garden shelter and a playground.
Zone B is for all ages. It includes a city stadium. Two angled deck paths connect the mall to a fountain area. These paths also lead to Rue Francis de Pressensé. They hint at a future cinema screen on a nearby wall. There is a water play area for cooling off in summer. You can also find a ping pong area, a playground, and a shaded area.
Throughout Jardin Velten, you will spot urban furniture. Trees, bamboo hedges, and planters help define the different living spaces.
Two main themes guided the garden’s design. The first is “Nature in the City”. How can we give nature more space in urban areas? Why not design the city around nature? Instead of just squeezing nature into empty spaces. Recent climate events make this even more important. Cities are becoming increasingly paved. This leads to more natural disasters. It is now vital to prioritize nature. Putting it at the heart of urban design. This inner-city nature preserves green spaces. It also offers a higher quality of life.
The second theme is “Promoting Social Connection”. This is done through pedagogical and shared gardens. These gardens improve the environment. They also boost biodiversity. More importantly, they create social bonds. These bonds cross generations and cultures.
So, Jardin Velten isn’t just a garden. It is a space for learning, playing, and connecting with both nature and neighbors. It is a green lung in the heart of Marseille. A place designed to improve urban life for everyone.