A historic park embracing new modes of sustainability and recreation

Perfect for walks and recreational activities, this 25-hectare urban park is the largest and oldest in the city of Amiens. Its landscaped pathways trace a geometric layout, divided into distinct, symmetrical sections. Our project aims to preserve and renew the park’s historic landscape configuration, while embracing biodiversity throughout its geometric sections. Each section becomes a garden – a sustainable tapestry forming the green backdrop for endless park activities.

Preserving and renewing the historic landscape configuration

The park’s tree system, mishandled during previous redesigns, needs to be strengthened and expanded. 870 trees of new species (maple, oak, elm, or hackberry) planted in rows strengthen, expand, and diversify the existing rows of trees. This narrows the pathway and view along the Promenade de la Hotoie, reframing vistas out to the city.

Beneath these densely-planted trees, a unified hardscape pathway enhances the continuity of the space. Hardscape surfaces are reduced by 45% to restore as much living soil as possible.

An archipelago of biodiversity: planted island-groves enrich each geometric section of the park

New, rounded island-groves are added to the classic straight lines of the park. Their herb, shrub, and tree layers attract and sustain wildlife. This string of island-groves creates countless micro-landscapes, full of surprises for wandering visitors. Each section of the park, newly-enriched with wild spaces, becomes both garden and habitat. By cultivating and diversifying undergrowth, mesophile grassland, and wetland ecosystems, our project weaves a sustainable tapestry that maximizes visitor well-being.

Maintain, upgrade, and expand park activities

These enriched and defined wild spaces, serving as cool oases in the summer, are perfect for any number of park activities, from passive to active recreation.

Footpaths and bike paths center active transportation. The wide range of activities is joined by lightweight and elegant park furnishings, including docks and bridges over the ponds, various bench styles along or among the greenery, gazebos, and nets for sports.