Pedestrian Path and View Terrace by Didzis Jaunzems, DJA

Project description by DJA (Didzis Jaunzems Architecture)

Pedestrian path and view terrace in Park of Senses in Valmiera is designed to provide comfortable access to river Gauja.

The pedestrian gravel road of 100m length is pruning from existing asphalted road, it gradually changes into timber path and organically transforms into a view terrace by the river.

The bench in the front of the terrace, closer to the waterside, climbs up from the relief naturally, keeping the smooth transformation from the pathway. The rear of the terrace is created as a seating area that gradually turns into a lounger. A curved wall separates visitors approaching terrace from back and those who are enjoying view from a lounger.

The terrace is raised from the ground, as the part of the landscaped area is within the flooding zone. On average every ten years all pedestrian path is under water.

The circular shape is partly designed to follow the turning radius of the cars, taking to the account the need of accessibility of the emergency vehicles to river.

The load bearing structure of terrace is made of 49 pine wood frames but concrete slabs are used at some parts where existing water pipes are located under. The terrace is finished with larch planks with special anti-slip mills.