Karin Standler Landscape Architecture: An innovative park landscape is being created in the business park of the municipality of Schwechat, transforming a gravel wasteland into a flourishing cultural landscape. After an initial planting, the area is left to natural succession, with targeted maintenance interventions promoting the development of diverse vegetation. The initial planting, which lays the foundation for the area’s transformation, includes pioneer shrubs, ruderal and wild plants, as well as perennials from the Pannonian region, with a composition of 70% seeds and 30% perennial plants. The species-rich succession park demonstrates an impressive vegetational ecological development on a gravel surface.
The ground covering consists of permeable dolomite crushed stone. The selection and positioning of trees, shrubs, and perennials are based on spatial, ecological, and aesthetic considerations, as well as their function in providing shade. The three-dimensional and topographical modeling with gravel, hills, and driftwood creates a varied landscape with different height levels. Limestone gravel walls made of clay, tegel, and gravel also provide wind-protected seating areas.
Organic shapes and a well-thought-out combination of large-canopy leading trees and smaller trees offer protection and differentiate the overall appearance. For the social use of the park, elements such as seating areas, benches, and table tennis tables are designed. These promote social interaction and invite people to linger. Paths, modeling, and plantings create a spatial structure with different qualities of stay.
The permeable park combines nature and design, creating a unique cultural landscape that promotes biodiversity. The former wasteland is transformed into an ecological paradise that becomes increasingly diverse and attractive over the years. Targeted maintenance and gradual vegetation development ensure a dynamic, constantly changing, and ecologically valuable area that benefits both nature and park users significantly.
Landscape Architecture: Karin Standler Landscape Architecture
Year completed: 2023
Photo credits: Karin Standler Landscape Architecture
