This old park has begun to show signs of wear, with structural issues such as sinking block paving and a deteriorating artificial waterfall.The plaza, designed primarily for human use, becomes unbearably hot in summer and offers little comfort or ecological value.
The waterfall, while visually refreshing, is inaccessible to animals due to its force and design. The basin remains too deep for birds or insects to use when inactive—highlighting the disconnect between human-centered design and the broader ecosystem.
Recognizing that the plaza, not the green spaces, needed change, the project aimed to restore a portion of it to nature. Two new green areas were introduced: one included stones in the water basin for small animals, and the other was lowered to naturally collect rainwater. Large trees and various plants were planted to provide shade and regulate the microclimate. Benches and subtle barriers were added to create a welcoming yet protected space. The design emphasized quiet coexistence, hoping to make the space more inclusive for all living beings.
The project suggests that true ecological recovery doesn‘t lie in controlling nature but in stepping back. Like a metaphor for the city, the park reflects how human-designed spaces often fail both people and nature. Instead of compensating with superficial green efforts, we must rethink our approach, recognizing that a more inclusive and reflective design benefits everyone—humans and non-humans alike.
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RAIN GARDEN, Jangpyeong Neighborhood Park
Desgin @studio_choshinsung
Construction @studio_choshinsung@p.l.a.t.e.a.u@gardenstudio_sanha
Organized by @seoulgreentrust
Funded by @porsche.korea
cooperation @ddm4you1004
풀이 자라 열매를 맺고 시들도록 내버려두는 것만으로도 새들은 찾아온다. 스스로의 시간을 다하도록 둘 때 비로소 회복하는 자연 앞에서 우리가 진정으로 돌아봐야 할 것은 스스로 온전해지는 산과 들과 강이 아니라 우리라는 사실을 생각한다.
공원의 광장을 사람이 사는 도시로, 공원의 녹지는 아직 개발되지 않은 자연의 영역으로 볼 때, 이 공원은 우리가 사는 도시를 은유한다. 늘어가는 온실가스를 줄이기 위해 나무를 베고 묘목을 심을 것이 아니라 인간 사회와 도시가 변해야 하듯이, 문제를 해결하려면 우리가 저지른 잘못을 돌아봐야 할 것이다. 이 프로젝트는 이러한 측면에서 조경가로서 우리가 주목해야 할 것이 무엇인가에 대해 생각하게 했다.