Reconstruction of Central Squares in Koprivnica by NFO

Revitalizing Public Spaces in Koprivnica

The Reconstruction of Central Squares in Koprivnica, designed by NFO, is a transformative urban renewal project that enhances pedestrian accessibility, integrates green spaces, and creates dynamic social areas. Spanning 15,000 m², the project redefines the public realm by incorporating contemporary design while respecting the city's historical and cultural identity.

Understanding the Existing Urban Fabric

Before the intervention, the central squares of Koprivnica, Croatia, were fragmented into three distinct zones:

• Ban Jelačić Square – A tree-lined boulevard occasionally hosting seasonal events.
• Market Square – A bustling pedestrian and bicycle hub.
• Zrinski Square – A vast, underutilized space acting primarily as a transit corridor rather than a social gathering place.

These areas, while individually significant, lacked cohesion and a unifying identity. The new urban design seeks to integrate them into a seamless network of public spaces, encouraging social interaction, pedestrian flow, and urban vitality.

Concept: A Tapestry of Public Spaces

Recognizing the importance of movement within the square, the design embraces natural pedestrian and bicycle pathways as an organizing framework. Zrinski Square, the centerpiece of the project, is reimagined as a collage of activities, structured around an "X"-shaped axis created by the bicycle lanes. The design introduces smaller squares, each tailored to specific uses, forming a diverse urban mosaic.

Key Design Features:

1. Multifunctional Zones – The square is divided into twelve micro-zones, each responding to its immediate surroundings.
2. Activity-Specific Spaces – These zones accommodate diverse urban functions, such as:An art zone in front of the gallery, featuring pedestals for exhibitions.A pop-up zone beneath maple trees for seasonal events.Coffee zones near cafés and restaurants with designated seating areas.
3. An art zone in front of the gallery, featuring pedestals for exhibitions.
4. A pop-up zone beneath maple trees for seasonal events.
5. Coffee zones near cafés and restaurants with designated seating areas.
6. Material and Aesthetic Considerations –Concrete pavers of varying sizes and textures harmonize with the historic architecture.Paths paved with reddish stones reference old brick roads.Yellow-hued multifunctional areas highlight key gathering spaces.Mosaic installations interpret Podravina embroidery, adding cultural significance.
7. Concrete pavers of varying sizes and textures harmonize with the historic architecture.
8. Paths paved with reddish stones reference old brick roads.
9. Yellow-hued multifunctional areas highlight key gathering spaces.
10. Mosaic installations interpret Podravina embroidery, adding cultural significance.

Sustainable and Functional Urban Equipment

The redesign prioritizes sustainability and public engagement by integrating innovative street furniture and smart infrastructure:

• Benches and Seating Areas – Wooden benches near the park, circular seating around trees, and multifunctional bike-rack benches enhance usability.
• Smart Technology – A solar tree near the library and cinema provides Wi-Fi, power outlets, and meteorological data displays.
• Fountains and Water Features – A new interactive fountain, inspired by the former flower garden, serves as a reflective water mirror and transforms into a playground for children during summer.

Enhanced Green Infrastructure

The revitalization strategy includes a thoughtful approach to landscaping, ensuring harmony with the existing urban greenery:

• Native and Adaptive Plantings – Tree species such as maples, soforas, and spruce bushes enhance biodiversity.
• Green Vestibules – Neighboring squares act as buffer zones, creating visual and ecological continuity.
• Artistic Landscaping – Japanese maples and ornamental grasses enrich the art zone, integrating nature with cultural expression.

A New Identity for Koprivnica’s Public Realm

The Reconstruction of Central Squares in Koprivnica successfully transforms an underutilized transit space into a vibrant social hub. By balancing modern urbanism with historical continuity, the project creates a sustainable, pedestrian-friendly environment that fosters community engagement. This initiative sets a benchmark for urban regeneration, reinforcing Koprivnica’s identity as a progressive, livable city.

All Photographs are works of Zoran Bakić, bosnić+dorotić,