gustafson porter + bowman has completed the first phase of ?parque central?, a new urban landscape formerly occupied by railway lines and industrial land in the center of valencia, spain. the first phase of the project provides a new focal green space for a range of age groups and community uses and is characterized with areas for art, activities, and community events that refer to three characteristics of the spanish city: water, food, and the mediterranean landscape.

all images © richard bloom, unless otherwise stated
 
 
gustafson porter + bowman?s design comprises a series of multi-level gardens that have been created as a series of large ?bowls?, inspired by the region?s traditional ceramics. they define the six areas of the scheme and attract visitors to the heart of the site where a former agricultural building (alquería) has been renovated to serve as the park?s offices. there is the children?s garden, the romantic garden, the flower garden, the orchard garden, and the demetrio ribes arts plaza.
 
 
?we feel proud of what we have achieved with the first phase of parque central,? says mary bowman, partner at gustafson porter + bowman. ?valencia is a spanish city and a mediterranean city like no other, with a rich history of agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture, not to mention its trade history and history of artisanal and artistic pursuits. I believe we have been successful in capturing the unique qualities of valencia, delivering a park that is evocative,...