Reconstruction of Uspenska Square in Dnipro

Uspenska Square in Dnipro is one of the oldest squares in the city of 1M people.  Designed in the early 19th century, it was an important infrastructure element and the heart of public interactions. Now, it is part of a global system of planning elements. In the 19th century, the square was home to the majestic Assumption Cathedral with a public garden, and it was a significant attraction point. During the Soviet era, the cathedral lost its traditional function, and the space around it also stagnated. The square ceased to be a part of public life and instead turned into a transit area.

Before the reconstruction, its planning structure and functionality did not meet the current needs for a safe and inclusive pedestrian space. Therefore, the architects' task was to revive the square as part of the city's pedestrian framework, to make it more humanistic and qualitative in terms of social interactions. On the territory of 1.45 hectares, we organized relevant pedestrian connections, planted 285 new trees, created new options for leisure and interaction between people and the city, taking into account the needs of different social groups. In terms of transportation, we prioritized pedestrians and bicycles, redistributed traffic flows, and organized parking. A two-way bicycle lane was arranged along the road. Pedestrian crossings on the roadway elements were created on the same level as the sidewalk. The necessary areas were paved with tactile tiles for people with visual impairments.

The basic materials used for the construction of the square are granite, concrete, stainless steel, and wood-polymer composite. Several types of granite were used here, all of which came from local Ukrainian deposits, which contributed to cheaper, more environmentally friendly logistics and support for the local economy. The paving stones and tiles in the pedestrian areas and on the bike path are made of granite. The base under these coverings is made of concrete. The amphitheater in the center of the square and the insular flower beds with seats have an outer part made of granite and reinforced concrete inside. The seating surfaces are made of durable and hard-wearing wood-polymer composite. The playground area has rubber flooring, steel play elements, and a concrete climbing wall. Decorative design elements, such as the facade of the restroom, tree grates, parametric fencing, etc., are also made of granite, steel, and wood-polymer composite.