The “Green Chamber” project in Velenje represents a thoughtful approach to urban greening, combining innovative planting design with sustainable technical solutions to enhance the quality of life in the city’s public spaces. This initiative focuses on enriching existing paved areas by introducing diverse greenery through strategically placed freestanding planters and enhanced vegetation, all designed to respond effectively to the challenges posed by urban environments and climate change.
Planting and Design Concept
Existing hardscape surfaces will be revitalized with the integration of freestanding planters of varying sizes. Large-scale containers will host small-form trees, ornamental grasses, and cascading perennials, creating layers of natural texture and seasonal interest. Smaller planters adjacent to building facades will feature compact grasses to soften the built edges and improve visual comfort.
All planters will be crafted from powder-coated stainless steel, matching the style and materials of the existing urban furniture to maintain design harmony. Each planter will be thermally insulated and equipped with efficient drainage systems, filled with an engineered substrate optimized for extreme urban growing conditions to support plant health and longevity.
Innovative Irrigation and Sustainability Features
To ensure sustainability and resilience, the irrigation system will incorporate rainwater harvesting. Rainwater collected from nearby roof surfaces will be stored in a cistern alongside the residential facade, connected directly to the gutter system. Watering bags will be installed around trees, and in-soil irrigation reservoirs embedded within the substrate will provide a reliable moisture source, minimizing water waste and supporting plant survival even during dry periods.
Climate-Resilient Plant Selection
The planting palette emphasizes “trees of the future” — species carefully selected for their resilience to climate change, urban stressors, and compact root zones. The scheme includes drought-tolerant perennials and low-maintenance ornamental grasses with trailing or groundcover habits to ensure year-round greenery with minimal upkeep.
Special attention is given to the existing linden tree (Tilia spp.), whose root zone will be revitalized with fresh soil and aeration to boost health. A damaged sapling will be replaced with a mature specimen appropriate to the site’s ecological and aesthetic context.
Replacing Heat-Intensive Surfaces
Stone mulch surfaces, which exacerbate heat stress in summer, will be removed and replaced with living groundcover plants. This change improves natural cooling, increases water retention in the soil, and supports urban biodiversity, contributing to a healthier microclimate.
Vertical Greening and Biodiversity Enhancement
The façade of Stari trg 19 will be adorned with Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), adding seasonal color and texture. Existing green walls on the site’s western edge will be densified with evergreen ivy (Hedera helix) and complemented by flowering honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum), supporting pollinators and adding visual interest throughout the year.
Urban Furniture and User Comfort
To complement the greenery, durable, aesthetically compatible urban furniture will be introduced, including large-format, light-toned parasols, and outdoor tables and chairs designed to enhance comfort and encourage social interaction. These elements will harmonize with the historic surroundings while providing functional outdoor spaces for residents and visitors.