BUČINA ZONE (Biograd na Moru)
May 30, 2025
Vruljica
June 1, 2025
2019–2023 | PLOČE BRANCH SCHOOL (Zadar) | STORMWATER DRAINAGE DESIGNER

PROJECT:       STORMWATER DRAINAGE AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN

The Rain Garden Project at the Courtyard of the Ploče Branch School was designed as a sustainable solution for managing stormwater runoff from the school building's roof and the surrounding paved courtyard area.

At the invitation of the City of Zadar, and within the framework of the STREAM – Strategic Development of Flood Management project implemented by the ZADRA NOVA – Zadar County Development Agency, I developed a concept that integrates ecological stormwater management technologies with technical solutions from the field of hydraulic engineering. The project combines green and blue infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and the social-educational function of the space – creating a resilient, aesthetically valuable, and functional environment in close interaction with the school surroundings.

Key project components include:

  • Analysis of stormwater flow dynamics from the building roof and surrounding paved surfaces, which enabled effective water retention and prevented courtyard flooding.
  • Design and construction of a rain garden along the southwestern boundary wall of the school, including the creation of a retaining step and raised planting beds.
  • Landscape and functional enhancement of the schoolyard, with recreational and educational elements – including an outdoor classroom (wooden benches and tables) and children’s play equipment – creating an interactive space for learning, play, and outdoor activities.
  • Ecologically sensitive integration of the project into the existing environment – through the use of natural materials and the planting of appropriate, locally adapted plant species, ensuring harmonious blending with the local landscape.

The project has been successfully implemented and now functions as a model of good practice in sustainable spatial planning – an open-air green classroom in interaction with a rain garden, contributing to the hydrological, ecological, aesthetic, and social value of the space, while enhancing the resilience of the urban environment to climate challenges.

Technical specifications:

Rain Garden Z1 – Area: approx. 58.0 m² | Inflow: Q = 15.0 l/s | Infiltration zone volume: V₁ = 28.7 m³