Ploče Brunch School
May 31, 2025
2019–2023 | VRULJICA PARK (Zadar) | TEAM LEADER AND STORMWATER DRAINAGE DESIGNER

PROJECT:           REDEVELOPMENT OF PART OF VRULJICA PARK

The rain garden project in Vruljica Park was conceived as a sustainable solution to the problem of flooding at the entrance to the Vruljica kindergarten during periods of heavy rainfall.

At the invitation of the City of Zadar, and within the framework of the STREAM project – Strategic Development of Flood Management, implemented by the Zadar County Development Agency ZADRA NOVA, I developed a concept that integrates ecological stormwater management technologies with engineering solutions from the field of hydraulic infrastructure, along with spatial enhancement of the park area.

The project combines green and blue infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and the social function of public space – creating a resilient, aesthetically valuable, and functional whole.

Key project components include:

  • Analysis of stormwater runoff dynamics from the parking plateau toward the kindergarten entrance, successfully resolving a long-standing flooding issue.
  • Design and construction of a rain garden – located within the forested area, near the parking lot and building entrance.
  • Landscape design connecting the rain garden with a newly arranged seating area and integrating a pedestrian path with lighting installed in accordance with lighting engineering standards.
  • Urban furnishing of the park with benches and waste bins – with emphasis on accessibility, comfort, and functionality for all users.
  • Environmentally sensitive integration of the project into the existing landscape – using excavated materials and planting native plant species suitable for the park, ensuring a natural fit into the local scenery.

The project has been successfully implemented and now serves as a model of best practice in sustainable spatial planning – a green oasis contributing to the hydrological, ecological, aesthetic, and social value of the space and enhancing the resilience of the urban environment to climate challenges.
In early June 2024, the project was awarded the prestigious EURADA Award for innovative practices in promoting regional development.

Technical data:

Rain Garden Z1 – Area: approx. 287.0 m² | Inflow: Q = 15.0 l/s | Infiltration zone volume: V₁ = 18.3 m³