Reconnecting the 1.75 million inhabitants of the Hungarian capital with its green surroundings: this is the challenge of  Zugló ,a new district of seven hectares with very high environmental ambitions.

An ambition in line with the decisions announced at the end of 2021 by the Budapest town hall, aiming to develop green infrastructure in cities (53 new green space projects are in scope by 2028). 

The master plan for Zugló, a district west of Pest and the Danube, includes a mixed programme of restaurants, pubs, office spaces, a reimagined town hall and a new medical centre, all designed to dramatically improve quality of life in the neighbourhood. Likewise, a series of interconnected gardens and public squares will create a long “green spine” that will ensure a smooth transition between city and nature. 

Innovative sustainability

It is true that Zaha Hadid Architects’  project has ambitious environmental objectives. For example, a network of green roofs aims to reuse up to 90,000 m³ of rainwater per year. Using renewable energies will significantly reduce energy consumption compared to traditional buildings. Outside, a new 35,000 m² park will help reduce summer temperatures by 6°C (that’s massive) compared to downtown Budapest. 

In addition, large pedestrian zones and new cycle paths will encourage urban micro-mobility and link living, working and leisure spaces, all located close to each other. Finally, the master plan provides for the creation of 12,000 m² of new landscaped areas. Enough to reconnect city dwellers with the surrounding nature. 

Tags: Budapest, greening, nature, new district, sustainable construction, Zaha Hadid Architects, Zugló