600 TREES
Carlos Portillo
Urban Climate Island – Finalist
That is how many trees could be planted within the small area of land allocated for the 2025 Concentrico. With this in mind, our proposal aims to transform 180 square meters of city space into a self-sustaining microforest. By planting 3 to 4 tree saplings per square meter, this innovative urban forest will promote carbon sequestration, urban cooling, and provide shade for visitors, while fostering biodiversity by offering a home for birds and insects.
The design includes mounded soil over the existing park grounds to encourage water retention, with recycled stone used at the edges to support both water and soil retention. Large recycled boulders will serve as seating, inviting people to engage with the natural surroundings.
An elevated circular ring will encompass the microforest, providing a unique viewpoint for visitors and integrated lighting that will turn the space into a glowing landmark at night. To enhance comfort and aesthetics, the ring will also feature built-in misters, helping to cool down visitors during warm weather while adding a misty, ethereal quality to the space. As the forest matures, the trees will gradually obscure the ring, symbolizing nature’s reclamation of urban space.
This garden will serve as a prototype for future green spaces in European cities, showcasing how nature-based solutions can enhance urban resilience and livability. As it flourishes, this urban forest will stand as a symbol of Logroño’s commitment to sustainability and the harmonious integration of nature within the city.