Landscape Survey & Site Preparation Strategy for a Brownfield Site
Sofia, Bulgaria
Landscape survey and improvement strategy for a brownfield site in Sofia, assessing existing conditions and defining character areas to support future transformation.
The study combined detailed site analysis with practical recommendations, informing site preparation and early design stages.
Client: Private Client
Collaborators: V L Landscape Consultancy
Services: Landscape Survey • Character Area Definition • Site Preparation Strategy
Focus: Existing Conditions Assessment & Landscape Improvement
Year: 2024-ongoing
Site Conditions
The site is characterised by fragmented land uses, residual industrial elements, unmanaged vegetation, and informal spatial structure. Existing features included footpaths, retaining steps, lighting, greenhouse structures, orchards, and areas of ecological value.
The survey established a clear understanding of existing conditions and identified opportunities for phased improvement and future landscape integration.
The site was organised into a series of interconnected character areas to structure analysis and guide future interventions.
These included formal landscape spaces, orchards, allotments, open areas for recreation and events, the lake environment, and supporting operational areas.
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Viewpoint Key
A series of representative viewpoints was selected to document existing conditions and record the evolving character of the site.
Panoramic photomontages helped communicate spatial relationships, vegetation structure, and early improvement works across key areas of the landscape.
Landscape Character Across the Site
Defining character areas provided a framework for understanding landscape identity, existing constraints, and opportunities for transformation.
Panoramic viewpoints capture the current character and key opportunities for improvement within each area.
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Landscape Improvement & Enhancement
A series of recommendations for practical actions focused on strengthening landscape structure, improving biodiversity and enhancing recreational and visual experience.
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Vegetation Management
Recommendations identified areas for selective pruning and vegetation clearance to improve site condition and accessibility
Site Preparation
The study highlighted unsafe elements, waste removal priorities, and opportunities for landscape restoration
Ecological Maintenance
Recommendations promoted low-intervention and chemical-free maintenance approaches to support biodiversity
Existing Structures
Existing landscape features and greenhouse structures were reviewed to inform future repair and reuse potential
Outcome
The project established a structured and practical foundation for future landscape strategy and phased development.
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Character Areas
Defined landscape character areas established a clear structure for future planning and development
Site Understanding
Survey work identified key constraints, opportunities, and spatial relationships across the site
Enhancement Potential
The study outlined opportunities for long-term ecological and landscape improvement
Future Landscape Strategy
The project created a practical foundation for phased site transformation and landscape integration
