VELKÝ OSEK

Category
Planning, Urbanism
Location
Velký Osek, Czechia
Status
In progress
Investor
Hertford Investments a.s.
Author team
Martin Krupauer, Pavel Kvintus, Martin Sedmák, Monika Ohrazdová, Ruby Pavoučková
Acknowledgement
People’s Choice Award in the Urban Design Project of the Year 2025 competition
About the project

The urban design study Volárenská in Velký Osek presents a concept rooted in organic growth rather than anonymous suburban sprawl. It introduces a vibrant structure that fosters neighborly relationships, connects people with nature, and allows communities to shape their own identity.

At the core of the proposal is a cluster-based residential system — individual groups of houses branch off from the main street network like clusters from a stem. This arrangement creates a clear and natural rhythm of development. Each cluster ends with a public space, around which family houses are grouped. These form small neighborhoods with their own character, offering a space for shared living and safe, free movement of children. The openness to nature is enhanced by pocket parks and pedestrian connections between the cluster streets, making the entire area permeable and full of greenery.

The central feature of the new neighborhood is a local center — a place for everyday services, informal gatherings, and public life. Public space plays a key role in the design, just like nature. The proposal preserves valuable natural features and integrates greenery into the built structure, promoting biodiversity and supporting the overall sustainability of the solution.

The Volárenská urban design study develops the village with respect for its history, landscape, and the people who live there.