Smetana's Orchards Jeseník

The design concept is primarily based on an interpretation of the historical relationships established by the park and the subsequent developments that have brought significant changes to its spatial dynamics. The fundamental idea of the proposal is a sensitive compositional restructuring of the space, which does not dogmatically revert to lost connections, but instead creates a new social heart for the park. The park is conceptually divided into three sections: the urban park, the spa park, and the forest park. Moving from the city, the park gradually transitions into open landscape.

The jury highly appreciates the clarity and appropriateness of the design, which presents a well-understood overall concept. The design offers a thoughtful hierarchy and arrangement of spaces and pathways, and adequately addresses the broader relationships within the area. The jury agrees that this design best responds to the given brief for revitalization, particularly valuing the sensitivity of the approach that combines history with contemporary needs. The new architectural elements introduced into the park are appropriate in both scale and extent; the interventions are light and unobtrusive. The vegetation solution aligns with the sensitive treatment of individual parts, respecting the established mature greenery and restoring essential sightlines. The jury positively evaluates the expression, subtlety, and multifunctional use offered by the summer theatre design. The roofing of the amphitheatre and other individual components of the proposal require further refinement, as is standard in design competitions. Overall, the jury assesses the design as understandable, sensitive, and balanced.

The proposal unveils the forgotten potential of Smetana Park, breathing new life into it. The transformation of Smetana Park is a long-term vision, serving as a solid foundation that will withstand changing trends. This vision builds on the tradition of prestigious spa parks, taking a contemporary, holistic approach to regenerate and reorganize current values, while incorporating elements that unify the park’s identity, strengthen the community, and enhance spatial connections with the city. With a focus on water recreation as a key factor in urban and regional development, as well as Jeseník’s spa heritage, Smetana Park has the potential to contribute to a sustainable future for the city. Smetana Park aspires to be a place that both inspires and heals.

The jury appreciates the focus on water management in the proposal, which serves as a central theme. The design addresses the connection of existing water sources and develops the current character of the park with new elements. The jury highlights the interesting treatment of the area surrounding the municipal office and values the effort to create barrier-free solutions, increase the number of parking spaces, and integrate them into the overall design. Furthermore, the jury positively evaluates the transformation of the administrative building into a social and cultural centre within the proposal. The jury finds the overall solution for the amphitheatre structure not optimal regarding spatial and operational relationships. The biotope solution near the summer theatre encounters technical limitations and, in the jury's opinion, is not suitable; the proposal for the stage roofing is unclear. The intention to enhance the monuments is welcomed by the jury; however, the design of the biotope in front of the Priessnitz memorial does not appear convincing

Smetana Park already has everything it needs. It is filled with hidden nooks and crannies as well as grand open spaces, closely connected to the local landscape yet breathing with the elegance of past grand ideas. Our goal is thus merely to refine this raw emerald, allowing every shade of its brilliance to shine. We seek out forgotten corners, polish the existing ones, and add a new layer that aligns with the needs of present and future generations while respecting those of the past. We unite the banks, young and old trees, original and new spaces, and people into one harmonious embrace.

The proposal captivates with its poetic introduction and sensitive conceptual idea, which builds on the extensive restoration of the original park. However, the initial conceptual framework was not successfully translated into the design itself. The jury, therefore, evaluates the proposal as insufficiently clear and even underdeveloped

By connecting important locations with the park's focal point, a conceptual scheme of radial pathways is created, adorned with a community center. This network of paths is complemented by circular trails that enrich the park with walking routes. The modification of the Bělá River's banks will enhance access to its waters, and along with the remodeling of tree clusters, it will create new vistas and connections in the lower part of the park. The upper forest park has a more natural appearance. Thanks to a mowing system and new paths, it will allow for easier glimpses into its secluded areas. A footbridge connecting the park to the center will greatly enhance the accessibility of this vision.

The proposal suffers from overly formal language and an excessive level of generosity. While the boldness of the approach is commendable, it does not fully align with the location or the assignment and lacks a clear, readable narrative. The café plays a dominant role as a central element, without which the proposal essentially does not function. The suggested park design insufficiently reflects the terrain's morphology and the context of the place, and it is overly costly.

To revitalize Smetana Park as a citywide landmark, we propose using fundamental principles of hierarchy (distinguishing the significance of locations, pathways, and surfaces) and diversification. The park will become a modern green space offering various options for leisure activities. Located near the historical and administrative centre of the city, with connections to the bus station and other civic amenities, the park holds strong potential for use, especially by local residents. However, it is also intended as a destination for visitors heading to hiking trails through Křížový vrch, offering a place to rest before exploring the Jeseník hills.

The proposal includes rather aggressive interventions, particularly in the form of impervious surfaces that are insensitive and disproportionate in the context of the location. The design feels overly "metropolitan" and inappropriate. The overall intent of the proposal does not align with the character and atmosphere of the existing park.