Urban Rehabilitation of the Unirii Square in Cluj-Napoca

To improve the design of the Unirii Square from Cluj-Napoca both aesthetically and functionally, principles of urban landscape and sustainable design were implemented. To achieve this goal, modular and mobile structures with two different types of low maintenance plant species, Sedum and Cornus were selected. These species have been chosen because of their ecological benefits, hardiness attributes and morphological characteristics. This paper aims to present an urban green component adaptable to different scenarios such as major annual events without interfering with temporary constructions and pedestrian routes while at the same time creating a more aesthetic and attractive open space for locals and tourists alike. Every element added to the square can be relocated or moved at any given time without negative impact to the environment. To present the potential of this design concept, three different arrangement design scenarios were conducted - one for the everyday life of the public and the other to accommodate the unfolding of two major events held annually: the TIFF film festival and the Christmas fair.