Masterplan Series: Green Spaces, Riverfronts, and Industrial Heritage in Mykolaiv
The UN4UkrainianCities Masterplan Series aims to make concept masterplans for Ukrainian cities more accessible and engaging to a wide audience. Through in-depth interviews with experts from our partners, this series highlights key strategies, concepts, and approaches in urban planning, showcasing the human element behind these ambitious projects. In this issue, we explore the transformation of Mykolaiv, focusing on its green spaces, riverfronts, and industrial heritage, as envisioned by Leonardo Cavalli, Founder and Managing Partner at the One Works Foundation.
Rediscovering Mykolaiv's Natural Assets
“Nature, whether it’s of natural origins like the rivers, which somehow define the topographic background of Mykolaiv, together with nature which has been urbanized, are a strong element of the character of the city.”
Leonardo Cavalli's recent visit to Mykolaiv revealed a city with unexpected natural wealth. "I was impressed, particularly by the great degree, quality, and amount of green spaces and tree-lined streets in the size and quantity, which you barely find in Western European towns," Cavalli notes. This abundance of urban nature, both of natural origin like rivers and human-made green spaces, forms a crucial part of Mykolaiv's character and serves as a foundation for the city's future development.
The masterplan aims to leverage these existing green assets, enhancing them to create a more livable city. Cavalli emphasizes the importance of preserving and expanding these spaces:
This focus on green infrastructure not only improves the aesthetic appeal of Mykolaiv but also contributes to its environmental resilience and the well-being of its residents.
Transforming Riverfronts: From Industrial Past to Livable Future
Mykolaiv's relationship with its rivers is undergoing a significant transformation. Historically, the rivers were primarily viewed as industrial assets, crucial for the city's shipbuilding industry. However, as Cavalli explains, "Today, I think Mykolaiv and its citizens are starting to look at the river in a different way, as a proper opportunity for a wider idea of a livable city."
This shift in perspective opens up new possibilities for urban development. While the harbor remains active, other parts of the riverfront are now seen as potential areas for creating vibrant public spaces. The masterplan envisions these areas as key elements in enhancing the city's livability, providing recreational spaces, and improving the overall urban environment.
A new marina that respect's Mykolaiv's rich shipbuilding heritage while offering recreational spaces and leisure opportunities
Cavalli draws an interesting parallel with Chicago's transformation in the late 19th century: "It is interesting how this, which was not really an appointment by the city... was eventually what became the basic tool for Chicago to transform into the beautiful city that it actually is." This comparison highlights the potential for Mykolaiv to undergo a similar transformation, adapting its waterfront areas to meet the evolving needs of its residents and visitors.
The Chicago Fire of 1871, also called the Great Chicago Fire, burned from October 8 to October 10, 1871, and destroyed thousands of buildings ã Archive Photos/Getty Images
Repurposing Industrial Heritage for a Dynamic Future
One of the most challenging aspects of Mykolaiv's transformation is the repurposing of its industrial heritage, particularly the remnants of its shipbuilding past. Cavalli sees these sites not as obstacles but as opportunities: "There are lots of opportunities if you want to look at these things this way, which again we're trying to leverage upon."
The masterplan proposes innovative ways to integrate these industrial sites into the city's new vision. This approach not only preserves Mykolaiv's historical identity but also creates unique spaces that can drive economic and cultural development. By repurposing these areas, the city can create new hubs for innovation, culture, and community engagement, all while maintaining a connection to its industrial roots.
A Flexible Vision for an Evolving City
Cavalli emphasizes the importance of flexibility in urban planning. "The city is a livable animal," he states, highlighting the need for adaptability in the masterplan. The goal is not to dictate every detail of Mykolaiv's future but to provide a robust framework that can accommodate changing needs and opportunities.
This flexible approach involves working at different scales simultaneously. As Cavalli explains, "We first defined a sort of strategic level for the whole town and then started working on some particular aspects." This multi-layered strategy ensures that the masterplan can guide broad development while also addressing specific areas and projects, such as the innovation district and riverfront developments.
The success of this vision relies heavily on community involvement and stakeholder engagement. Cavalli stresses, "There's no master plan which can be developed without the help, the participation of the local community, the local economy." This collaborative approach ensures that the masterplan remains a living document, capable of evolving with the city and its people.
As Mykolaiv looks towards its future, the transformation of its green spaces, riverfronts, and industrial heritage stands at the forefront of its urban renewal. Through thoughtful planning and community engagement, the city is poised to create a more livable, sustainable, and dynamic urban environment that honors its past while embracing the possibilities of the future.