A neglected municipal courtyard in Sofia’s Draz Mahala neighborhood has been transformed into an urban climate shelter – a place that offers rest and coolness during the summer heat, while revitalizing one of the city’s more vulnerable areas. The pilot project by the Sofia Development Association, under the Be Ready project of the Interreg Danube Region Programme, co-funded by the EU, turned 350 square meters of unused municipal land into an attractive green space co-designed with local residents.
Located near Lion’s Bridge – one of the city’s busiest and most heat-exposed transport arteries – the climate shelter responds to a pressing urban challenge: the growing impact of urban heat islands. The area is home to a significant number of vulnerable citizens and disadvantaged groups, including elderly people, low-income households, and migrants.
The transformation began in May with a workshop that brought together residents, students, artists, NGO representatives, and migrants to shape a shared vision for the space and define its community needs. What followed was a dynamic collaboration that engaged over 130 citizens and the Sofia Development Association team in volunteer activities and artistic interventions.
Through joint effort, the site was cleaned up, all sealed surfaces were replaced with permeable ones, and a shaded relaxation area with a water mist cooling system was built. In a neighborhood where there is only one public drinking fountain per 50,000 residents, the installation of a new one is a major benefit. With expert guidance from the University of Forestry and ecologists from Serdika District, climate-resilient trees and plants were planted, along with a small community herb garden. The climate shelter also includes other ecological features such as composting, a rainwater collector, an insect hotel, and birdhouses.
Young artists and designers from Studio Vazel brought the space to life with visual art and installations that tell stories and engage visitors in environmental care.
The climate shelter has been warmly welcomed by local residents, offering a new space for relaxation, amenities such as blood pressure measurement, board games, opportunities to work in the herb garden, and to host small community events. The pilot project was carried out with the support of municipal councillors from the Sofia Development Association’s Board of Directors and the district administration, and was highly praised for its innovative approach, inclusive design, and effective use of municipal property for public benefit.
The project proved the feasibility of the urban acupuncture concept – creating small, smartly designed “pocket parks” that bring relief where large-scale investments are not possible.
Be Ready is an Interreg Danube Region Programme project co-funded by the European Union.
