Department of landscape architecture and horticulture, Faculty of Forestry , University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
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Department of landscape architecture and horticulture, Faculty of Forestry, University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
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Department of landscape architecture and horticulture, Faculty of Forestry, University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
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Department of landscape architecture and horticulture, Faculty of Forestry, University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
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Department of landscape architecture and horticulture, Faculty of Forestry , University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
Department of landscape architecture and horticulture, Faculty of Forestry, University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
Greening urban ruins represents an innovative approach to the revitalization of abandoned built structures. This process merges greenery with ruins or abandoned structures, creating synergy between natural and built elements of the space. The goal of greening ruins is not only ecological but also aesthetic, as it transforms neglected buildings into green "oases" that promote biodiversity and improve microclimatic conditions in urban environments. As a part of urban green infrastructure revitalized ruins can become an effective way in adaptation cities to climate changes, especially in the terms of rainwater regulation and minimaze urban heat island. Additionally, revitalization contributes to social cohesion, creating spaces that can become gathering places for various community activities. Case studies at both European and global levels, such as the MFO Park, Qiaotou Ruin Garden, and others, provide examples of good practices that offer insights into the benefits and challenges of revitalizing abandoned structures.
This paper explores the potential for revitalizing ruins through the application of plant materials, emphasizing the benefits greenery can contribute to the renewal of abandoned urban spaces, as well as analyzing various greening possibilities, including the use of different techniques such as vertical greening systems, rooftop gardens, green walls, and interior greening of buildings. Greening ruins also contributes to preserving cultural identity, as it allows old buildings, through the appropriate use of plant materials, to become integral parts of contemporary urban ecosystems. The potential for revitalization depends on the structural stability of the buildings, the maintenance and care requirements for green areas, potential legal issues, and financial considerations, which highlight the need for careful planning and implementation. Further research in this area can contribute to the understanding and making practices and specific solutions for the future revitalization of urban spaces through greening.
This research was funded by The Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development which is financing the scientific research work of the University of Belgrade - Faculty of Forestry on the basis of the Agreement on the realization numbers: 451-03-65/2024-03/ 200169, 451-03- 137/2025-03/ 200169 and 451-03-136/2025-03/ 200169.
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