Live Places – Bratislava Public Space Renewal Program

The fountain on Slobody Square in Bratislava - one of the largest fountains in Slovakia has undergone a comprehensive renovation – after 40 years, the central linden blossom was cleaned, new jets were added, the original cascade pools have been modified and the engine room was modernized. After the renovation, the fountain is significantly more economical. A big change is that it is possible to safely enter the fountain and cool down.
Part of the square with the fountain has also undergone renovations. Trees were planted, raised beds were arranged, automatic irrigation, new furniture, lighting and unique cast terrazzo were added which replaced the original cracked granite paving. The public space is intensively visited by city residents in the summer heat.

- renovation of fountain
- making the fountain available to the public - a source of cooling in the summer
- renovation of the square - trees planted, raised beds were arranged, automatic irrigation, new outdoor furniture, lighting and unique cast terrazzo were added which replaced the original cracked granite paving

- increased shading by vegetation (green infrastructure)
- improvement of the microclimate with a functional fountain (blue infrastructure)
- partial change of paving - increased permeability (grey infrastructure)

The measures were built as part of the cooperation between: The Capital of the Slovak Republic Bratislava, the Metropolitan Institute of Bratislava and the General Investor of Bratislava.
The shape of the square was determined by an architectural competition in 2017.
Participation was ensured through a discussion of the work within the framework of the city's standard communication with residents.

- increase the quality of public space using adaptation measures (blue - green - grey measures)
- mitigate the impact of the urban heat island in urban environments

Limited funding was overcome through public-private partnerships.

The renewal of older fountains in cities is very motivating. Fountains represent a great potential for blue infrastructure and their renewal increases the quality of public spaces. Large-scale works from the socialist era now serve as refreshing elements of blue infrastructure, especially during summer heat waves in the city.