GREEN TRAM TERMINAL

Project idea

Revitalisation project of an underutilised site within the tram loop at the Sobieskiego housing estate, Poznań, Poland.
The location functions as a multimodal interchange node, where daily routes of city residents intersect with those commuting from nearby towns and rural areas. Currently, the area is occupied only by a deteriorated pavement, an aesthetically unappealing transformer station, and a tall acoustic barrier that separates the site from part of the tram tracks.

Project description

The project takes advantage of the site's natural topography, its terraced configuration inspired the creation of an amphitheatre, designed as an attractive meeting point for both pedestrians and locals. The tiered seating arrangement directs attention towards a small central plaza, which remains a flexible, multifunctional space, adaptable for seasonal decorations, exhibitions, and cultural events.

Adjacent to the transformer station, the terrain is reshaped to include a landscape planted with vegetation, effectively screening the utility structures (the existing transformer station and the acoustic wall). The square is accessible via gently sloped pathways, ensuring that universal design standards are met and enabling convenient use by all, those waiting for public transportation or visiting temporary installations.

A substantial portion of the redesigned square consists of urban meadows—biodiverse, semi-natural green zones integrated between built structures. In contrast, intensively curated plantings are strategically located near the amphitheatre, where they can be frequently appreciated by visitors.

Technical information

The square is also designed to manage water intelligently. Rainwater is directed to the lowered area of the amphitheatre, where it can be temporarily stored. Sun-shading sails, mounted above, incorporate an integrated drainage system that supports the seasonal operation of a ground-level fountain at the centre of the plaza.

Furthermore, in two critical areas of the site, retention basins are proposed, engineered to accommodate wetland vegetation and tall grasses. These features address residual issues related to water runoff while enhancing the ecological and visual qualities of the space.