Vysoké Mýto Park by Buoy: Revitalizing Public Spaces in Czechia

The Vysoké Mýto Park, designed by Buoy, represents a transformative approach to public space revitalization. Situated on the former Jirásek military barracks, the project extends over 3.5 hectares, significantly enhancing the town's southwest corridor near the historic center. This urban renewal initiative focuses on recreational, sports, and leisure facilities, offering residents a dynamic and accessible green space.

Design Concept

At the heart of the project is the active zone in front of the historical Dragoun Barracks, forming a focal point for sports, cultural events, and daily recreational activities. The park's layout uses diagonal pedestrian paths inspired by natural movement patterns, connecting areas for sports, relaxation, and social interaction.

The main promenade, running east-west, serves as the principal pedestrian route. Flanked by avenues of trees, it provides visual continuity and encourages circulation for walkers, runners, and cyclists. This integration of linear pathways with open green areas creates panoramic views and promotes connectivity throughout the park.

Sustainable Landscaping & Water Management

A key element of the design is environmental sustainability. Permeable paving and traffic-calmed zones allow rainwater collection, storage, and irrigation of the park’s vegetation. Retention basins filter water, ensuring efficient use and contributing to the park’s ecological performance.

The park features 87 newly planted trees, complemented by carefully preserved existing species. The vegetation includes Tilia cordata, Amelanchier arborea Robin Hill, Fraxinus angustifolia Raywood, and flowering Prunus avium, offering color and seasonal variation. Free-form meander plantings create quiet, shaded micro-spaces, enhancing the park’s livability.

Active and Recreational Zones

The sunken multi-purpose playground serves as the park's central active area, designed with surrounding stepped seating for spectators and participants. Daily uses include sports, summer cinema, and cultural events, all naturally separated from pedestrian routes.

Other recreational features include:

• Wooden logs and climbing elements for children and youth
• Petanque and picnic areas with terraced seating
• Soft-surfaced triangular play zones for sports and relaxation
• Integrated ramps and wheelchair access, ensuring a barrier-free environment

The Kiosk, located along the main promenade, functions as a social hub offering refreshments, sanitary facilities, and storage. Its stepped roof forms an elevated viewing platform overlooking the park. A subtle steel and timber pergola complements the children’s play area, providing shade and seating.

Traffic & Accessibility

Vehicular traffic is restricted to service and necessary access, with peripheral parking designed for minimal disruption. Pedestrian connectivity is prioritized, linking the park to surrounding streets including Prokopa Velikého, Lidická, Odbojárská, and Školská. The pathways ensure safe, collision-free movement and enhanced usability for visitors of all ages.

Vysoké Mýto Park demonstrates a thoughtful balance between urban regeneration, recreational functionality, and ecological sustainability. By combining structured active zones, organic green spaces, and strategic water management, the project provides a living, adaptable public space that responds to the evolving needs of the community.

This revitalization enhances town connectivity, outdoor recreation, and quality of life, establishing Vysoké Mýto Park as a landmark example of modern park design in Czechia.

All photographs are works of Alexandra Timpau