A small brochure about its construction years ago helped us learn about it and orient ourselves in the vast park. It is quite big and incorporates some old heritage buildings in the overall concept of the park. They are nicely restored and house some public uses that complement the usage of the green space around - a library, a occupational youth centre, an expo space, an elderly day centre, a museum area...
At the very moment when we crossed the entry and walked on the lovely paved way, we felt really excited about learning about the history of this space and its conversion into a public park. Walking around to discover its hidden places; seeing design decisions and details, helped us unveil some fascinating stories or at least some speculations about. The two industrial buildings that are still to be restored include a big chimney that really got our attention.
However, as we walked, we found a bit lost in some repetitive spaces aimed for small groups of people, but completely empty on a sunny Sunday morning. It was really surprising for us to see this and we thought of the sense of security that these places inspire. Meanwhile, in the open spaces, where bigger visuals are possible, there were people strolling or sitting on the benches.
A good design is not what suits well on a plan, but what a deeper analysis of the human needs tells us. And we have many issues to think about, following Jane Jacobs, Jan Gehl and others´ thoughts about and make use of the moment to improve the park by the perspective planned refashioning.
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