The pleasant and peaceful living room of the Slavic Castle in the atrium of the Andean Temple

In the atrium of the Andeški Hram in Slovenj Gradec, a new public space has been unveiled as part of the “Dvorišča, zeleni prostori skupnosti” project. The initiative, which concluded its implementation recently, has transformed the once underutilized area into a welcoming environment for gatherings, relaxation, and social interaction. The design was selected from three submissions, with the proposal by MOCIS winning approval. This marks a step forward in the ongoing efforts of the Municipality of Slovenj Gradec to enhance and preserve high-quality green public spaces within the city. The transformation of the atrium includes a range of improvements aimed at creating a more inviting atmosphere. These include the introduction of wooden elements, durable planters, Japanese maples, and a reading nook, all while preserving the existing green features of the space. The redesigned area serves as a model of how small interventions can significantly improve the quality of life in urban settings. It reflects a broader strategy by local authorities to make better use of overlooked areas within the city. The event was inaugurated by Mayor Peter Pungartnik of the Municipality of Slovenj Gradec, who emphasized the importance of such projects in encouraging reflection on the city’s character, environmental quality, and community living standards. He highlighted the role of these initiatives in shaping future urban development through thoughtful planning. Discussions during the opening included topics related to the significance of green spaces, the quality of residential environments, and the involvement of citizens in the management of shared public areas. Sonja Lakovšek, director of MOCIS, noted that the core of Slovenj Gradec contains many valuable yet often overlooked spaces. She described the atrium as a special place located at the heart of the town, envisioning it as a kind of daily room for residents, a space where they could meet, gather, read, and simply enjoy time outdoors. The redesign aims to create a sense of belonging and continuity within the community. Tilen Tamše, the landscape architect behind the atrium's concept, explained that the goal was to develop a communal space suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds. The design sought to provide a calmer alternative to the bustling main square, offering a retreat from the usual urban hustle. Input from direct residents played a crucial role in refining the initial plans to better meet their needs and expectations. Martina Jeseničnik, the municipal urban planner, placed the project within a wider context of improving both newly developed and existing green and public areas. She stressed the importance of involving citizens in spatial planning processes, ensuring that developments reflect the needs and aspirations of the community. This approach aligns with the municipality’s commitment to inclusive and participatory urban development. The successful completion of the atrium project was made possible through collaboration among several organizations and institutions. Partners included MOCIS, the Slovenj Gradec Health Center, the Business Center of Slovenj Gradec, the Municipal Enterprise Slovenj Gradec, the Ecological Society of Slovenj Gradec, Meškova Bukvarna, the Ksaverja Meška Library of Slovenj Gradec, Steklarski studio Matijaž Gostečnik, LT Landscape Studio, and the Municipality of Slovenj Gradec. The project was organized by the association "Hiša!" and supported financially by the Eco Fund, the Slovenian Environmental Fund, and the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Energy of the Republic of Slovenia.