TOMILINO PARK

The inspiration for the project’s concept was found in the diversity of birds living in the park – from the most common ones to rarer species. The task at hand was to create a distinctive park that would smoothly blend into rich environment — ‘Tomilino Park’ residential development on the one side, and both a thick forest and Mirny and Oktyabrsky settlements on the other. The work on the project started with participatory design, in which locals, who shared their thoughts and wishes regarding changing the land, were actively involved. For the pavilion design, we wanted to combine the use of natural materials and the stylistics reflecting the park’s main theme that is the birds’ plumage and shapes of the wings. The park includes several birdwatching spots, as well as birdhouses, feeders and bird baths. The entry silhouette has a V-shape often seen to present birds in pictures. All the elements are made in consideration of the local species and in cooperation with ornithologists. One of the main ideas of the project was to create the land natural biocenosis. We planned to plant perennials attracting insects that small birds use as food.

The park is popular among sportspeople, especially ski lovers. That is why one of the important stages of the project was making a cycle path / skiing trail, as well as paths for jogging and Nordic walking, including a Hiking Trail. This route, which connects Oktyabrsky settlement with picturesque Lytkarino quarry, was given our special attention. The quarry attracts the locals and to reach it they often use the long route through the forest park. To devise the route became one the goals of the project.

The site of Tomilino forest park features recreational areas, playgrounds and sports grounds, picnic areas and pavilions, as well as a large dog park. The dog park is divided into two areas - the one for training and the one for walking – and features modern equipment (slides, tunnels, rings and multi-level obstacles) that helps engage pets in various activities. All the functional areas are located at the forest edge or in clearings, which allowed us to prevent cutting down trees or bushes.

Playgrounds are mainly made from wood. At the playground next to the Hiking Trail one can spot a slide with characteristic “nests” devised specifically for this project – the shape, too, was inspired by the houses of the forest’s feathered residents. The signage placed all over the park helps visitors find their way around and provides information about the flora and fauna of Tomilino. All the signage elements are made from green and natural materials. Areas for quiet rest are located along the main pond and feature boardwalk and loungers for comfort.

For surfacing, we used permeable materials that do not harm the roots of the existing plants, such as sand, river gravel, landscaping bark, granite dust. We paid special attention to illumination – it is made fr om wood reflecting the park’s general stylistics, and placed only wh ere it doesn’t interfere with the birds’ natural habitat. The project is done together with the Ministry of Landscape Architecture of the Moscow Region.