Udaan Park by Studio Saar: A Community-Driven Green Oasis in the Heart of Udaipur

Redeveloping Urban Landscapes Through Inclusive Design

In 2022, international architecture firm Studio Saar completed the transformative redevelopment of Udaan Park, a neglected public park located on the banks of Swaroop Sagar Lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Commissioned by the not-for-profit organization Dharohar, this community-led project has breathed new life into an underutilized urban space, turning it into a vibrant, accessible, and inclusive public park for all age groups.

Spanning 2,711 square meters, the revitalized park is the first completed project under Dharohar’s city-wide “10 Lakh Vriksh” initiative, which aims to reintroduce green, breathable spaces across Udaipur by reviving its network of parks and gardens.

Reimagining a Forgotten Space

Previously hidden and inaccessible, Udaan Park suffered from poor visibility and lacked basic infrastructure, including step-free access. Over the years, it had deteriorated into a neglected site plagued by anti-social behavior. Studio Saar envisioned a radical transformation—turning the decaying space into a safe, engaging, and environmentally conscious public park that reconnects the community with nature and the historic lakefront.

Through a design narrative inspired by adventure, exploration, and nature, the architects created a series of interactive, landscaped zones. These zones gently guide visitors from the street level down to the lake, offering a cohesive spatial experience that fully utilizes the natural topography and rugged rock formations native to the region.

Landscape Architecture Rooted in Sustainability

The park now features locally sourced native vegetation, including flowering plants, medicinal herbs, and small trees that celebrate the ecological identity of Rajasthan. A standout feature is the maze garden, constructed entirely of plantings and designed for complete wheelchair accessibility.

At the core of the park is a striking canopy installation supported by a tree-truss framework. The canopy is adorned with over 34,000 life-sized birds made from recyclable plastic, mimicking the mesmerizing starling murmurations seen over Udaipur’s lakes. This dynamic structure offers both visual wonder and functional shade, forming a central hub for seating and games.

Recycling, Reusing, and Reinventing Public Infrastructure

A key pillar of the project is its commitment to sustainable construction practices and the creative reuse of materials. Many of the original materials found on-site were repurposed, from reclaimed stone and timber to structural elements. Old tires were innovatively transformed into planters, swings, and tunnels in the children's play area, while recycled saree fabrics were used for swing ropes—adding both cultural character and environmental value.

All non-structural metal elements—gates, fences, balustrades, and portions of the canopy—were crafted from recycled steel reinforcement bars, underscoring a deep commitment to circular design and low-impact building.

Community-Led Transformation

Perhaps the most powerful outcome of the project is its social impact. What was once a neglected site now thrives as a community gathering space. Local youth, previously disengaged or even destructive, have become active caretakers of the park. Udaan Park has become a lively venue for birthday celebrations, cultural activities, and everyday leisure, showcasing the power of thoughtful public architecture in rebuilding civic pride.

A Vision for Udaipur’s Future Green Spaces

According to Studio Saar’s co-founder Ananya Singhal, “With Udaipur undergoing rapid urbanization, the city is at a severe risk of depleting its green cover—currently just 2m² of public green space per capita, far below the WHO standard of 9m².” Through their continued collaboration with Dharohar, Studio Saar is working to ignite a green movement, reimagining Udaipur’s urban future through community-built, sustainable public spaces.

All Photographs are works of Ankit Jain