“Stone above water” – Park development along the Ikva stream by Pagony Landscape Architects

“Stone above water” – Park development along the Ikva stream

Purpose of development
The Ikva stream, which passes through Fertőszentmiklós, and the green spaces along its banks near the town centre had much unexplored potential. The project aimed to develop a biodiverse green environment that utilizes the unique characteristics of the area, attracts residents and also encourages active recreation, outdoor play and exercise. The town of Fertőszentmiklós received support from the Employee Foundation of the VKR Group for the park development along the Ikva near the town centre. The elliptical scapes of the hilltops (playground, street workout and playscape for dogs) are suitable for individual and group activities.

Morphology of the park
The mounds raised to flood protection level along with the meandering, interwined tributaries of the Ikva stream and biodiverse plant groups, vegetation areas encourage a more natural ecosystem and create a dynamic landscape which is naturally subject to the seasonal dynamics of flood water.
The separation of the park and the main road is ensured by a ditch with reed, which are complemented by groups of shrubs. The internal exploration of the park is facilitated by grassy paths, while the ground level differences are bridged by wooden and red limestone terrain steps.
Park equipment, material use
High silk grey painted wooden columns, stainless steel and blue ropes form the basis of the fitness and playground equipment on the elliptical scapes of the hilltops. They are accompanied by an otter-shaped insect hotel, beam benches with bicycle storage and solar-powered lights. In the southern part of the area, a ball field and sunbathing spots are situated, offering pleasant views of the stream. As visitors cross the Ikva Bridge, they are greeted by a welcome post with a chime installation shaped after the flowing contours of the Ikva stream and its tributaries

Plants, ecosystem
The tributaries contribute to the creation of wetland habitats, which, in addition to their positive ecological functions, also offer recreational opportunities for the citizens. Several spots provide access to the stream and allow visitors to get closer to the water. A wide variety of plant species with decorative flowers, fruits and foliage colours make the area diverse ever-changing throughout the year. The long-lasting floral display of Iris (iris), Butomus (flowering rush), Lythrum (spiked loosestrife), and Aster (aster) species is complemented by bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), alder (Alnus spp.), and willow (Salix spp.).

Currently, the main goal and challenge is to remodel the common practice of the town and continue with a nature-friendly maintenance, continuously transforming the trimmed grassy areas into flower meadows. Beavers, frogs, fish, little birds have already found their home in the area.

Project information
Project name: „Stone above water” –
Park development along the Ikva stream (waterfront development)
Location: Fertőszentmiklós, Hungary
Area: 16280 m2
Park design: Pagony Landscape Architects
Principal designer: Attila Vincze
Team members: Katalin Simon, Ágnes Erdelics, Nóra Jalili-Németh, Boglárka Szalontai, Kata Pór, Dániel Pál Vadász (landscape architects)
Hydraulic engineering: Penta-Kör Kft.
Developer: Municipality of Fertőszentmiklós
Supporter: Employee Foundation of the VKR Group, Denmark
Year of construction: Autumn of 2023 – Spring of 2024
Date of project (design): 2022.
Handover: 07/06/2024
Contractors: Novitas-Invest Kft. (general constructor), Ilona-malom Műhely Bt. (fitness & playground), H-P Hydro Mérnökiroda Kft. (hydraulic works)
Photographs: György Darabos, Pagony Landscape Architects, Municipality of Fertőszentmiklós