Architecture firm Studio Saar has breathed new life into a neglected park in India, transforming it into the vibrant Udaan Park. Nestled along the artificial Swaroop Sagar Lake in Udaipur, the park has undergone a remarkable renovation aimed at strengthening its connection with the natural surroundings and water while promoting inclusivity and accessibility. Know more about it on SURFACES REPORTER (SR).
Comprising 34,000 life-sized birds crafted from recycled plastic, this canopy provides shade to seating and the game area below.
Studio Saar’s approach involved reshaping the park’s landscape and introducing new elements such as a maze, game area and extensive greenery. One of the standout features is a captivating canopy that spans a pathway, resembling the mesmerizing patterns of migratory birds, known as murmurations that frequently grace the skies of the area.
The studio wanted to introduce a sustainable, accessible and contemporary design that inspired the citizens of Udaipur to rediscover their sense of wonder and reconnect with nature. Previously, Udaan Park suffered from neglect and uneven terrain, which limited its accessibility and discouraged visitors. The studio addressed these issues by designing a series of stepped and sloping spaces that connect the street at the park’s peak to the shores of the lake below.
Nestled along the artificial Swaroop Sagar Lake in Udaipur, the park has undergone a remarkable renovation aimed at strengthening its connection with the natural surroundings and water while promoting inclusivity and accessibility.
According to the studio, the team reimagined the lost community park as a sequence of interactive landscapes from the street down to the lake that acts as a natural transition zone and encourages exploration and adventure. The park’s transformation involved removing existing paths and repurposing waste cement to create terraced landscapes and a flat area beneath the canopy. Waste cement was ingeniously employed to craft a wheelchair-accessible maze lined with reclaimed tires, bordered by flowering plants and medicinal herbs.
Throughout Udaan Park, reclaimed tires serve various purposes, acting as planters and play equipment such as swings and tunnels.
Throughout Udaan Park, reclaimed tires serve various purposes, acting as planters and play equipment such as swings and tunnels. Recycled saree fabrics have been transformed into swing ropes for the children’s play area, while repurposed steel reinforcement bars now function as gates and fences. The central attraction of the park is a colourful canopy that draws inspiration from the starling murmurations. Comprising 34,000 life-sized birds crafted from recycled plastic, this canopy provides shade to seating and the game area below. The vibrant hues of the canopy are influenced by traditional Indian color palettes and earthy tones.
One of the standout features is a captivating canopy that spans a pathway, resembling the mesmerizing patterns of migratory birds, known as murmurations that frequently grace the skies of the area.
To support local wildlife, diverse local plants have been introduced across the different levels of Udaan Park. An area with soft plantings featuring drought-resistant grass and newly planted trees has been incorporated lakeside, providing a serene space for visitors to enjoy nature while gazing across the tranquil lake.
Image credit: Ankit Jain