Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Pop-up Park at Városháza Park

Budapest

Hungary

Contributed by 
Jo Ruas
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
February 12, 2019
May 1, 2024

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Popup Park is a sort of urban oasis, colorful, multi-functional and designed for people. In 2017, a Hungarian studio installed a pop-up park in Budapest's Városháza Park, which often sat empty. They designed lounge areas with long wavy benches and shade structures, which support a variety of uses and activities. Since then, the structures have returned each summer to enliven the space.

People feel welcome, at ease, and happy in this place. It attracts a wide variety of people, too—locals and tourists, and people of different ages and genders—especially in groups. Even an individual will not feel alone there, since it offers many opportunities for people-watching. The constant parade of people sitting, playing, lying, or recharging their mobile phones with on-site solar-powered outlets also makes the park feel safe.

Located adjacent to the Deák Ferenc metro station and a bus stop, the park is well-connected to transit. The bright colors and unusual shapes of the structures also reach out visually, catching people's eye even from a distance.

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Images courtesy of Adam Polhodzik, BVA

Pop-up Park at Városháza Park
Pop-up Park at Városháza Park
Pop-up Park at Városháza Park
Pop-up Park at Városháza Park
Pop-up Park at Városháza Park
Pop-up Park at Városháza Park
Pop-up Park at Városháza Park
Pop-up Park at Városháza Park

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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