20. December 2024
We present the latest updates on the Medze project in Bratislava’s Dúbravka district. Following a refinement of the original architectural concept from 2020, significant changes have been made to enhance the quality of public spaces and increase the proportion of green areas. This week, we also submitted Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) documentation to the relevant authorities regarding the next stage of the project. The construction of the first stage is expected to begin in the first half of 2026.
In 2020, an international architectural and urban planning competition was held for the site, with the Slovak studio Pantograph selected as the winner. The current refined version of the project emerged in response to discussions with the City of Bratislava, held during the process of securing approving binding opinion for the first two stages of the project. The changes aim to bring in more natural light to the residential units and maximize the views offered by the sloping terrain. Adjustments to the height and position of individual buildings have resulted in improved functionality and greater visual appeal.
The changes also prioritize more green and public spaces, including expansive playgrounds for various age groups, workout areas, and relaxation zones with an emphasis on greenery. Hardscape areas have been minimized in favor of lawn areas and park landscaping.
The three stages, located on the northern part of the slope, will consist of a total of 23 above-ground buildings ranging from two to twelve stories, predominantly for residential use. Once the ongoing zoning plan amendment is approved, the three stages will deliver approximately 820 residential units, including suites.
Construction of the first stage is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026. This stage will include four residential buildings with seven to eleven stories.
The project will be connected to the newly reconstructed tram radial line, ensuring quick and efficient access to the city center. The area will also include a kindergarten, retail spaces, and a square with water features. Across the three stages, a total of 1,246 parking spaces will be provided, with over 90% located underground. The project will also offer playgrounds for children, workout areas, water features, and a square. Residents will benefit from numerous recreational zones, as well as bicycle storage. The project places a strong emphasis on sustainability, renewable energy sources, and rainwater management. Collected rainwater will be repurposed for irrigation of green roofs and park vegetation.
“Our vision is to minimize car traffic on the surface as much as possible. We have, therefore, designed a concept based on a ‘car-free zone’ principle. At the same time, it was important to us to ensure barrier-free pedestrian access on the slope. In addition to staircases that will provide direct routes to the higher parts of the slope, there will also be gently inclined pathways ideal for leisurely walks, allowing pedestrians to take in the pleasant views between the buildings on the slope,” said Marcel Martišek, Head of Project Management at Penta Real Estate.
Another Stage in Preparation
This week, we also submitted Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) documentation to the relevant authorities regarding the next stage of the project. This stage will be located in the southern part of the site, on the border between the Karlova Ves and Dúbravka districts, spanning more than 18,000 square meters. Preparations included land consolidation through the acquisition of plots. In 2022, Penta Real Estate also organized an invited urban planning competitive dialogue for the site, won by the Compass studio.
The stage plans for the continued development of the area and provides transportation connections to other stages of the Medze project, closer to Dúbravka. The stages will be interconnected by shared-use paths for pedestrian and cyclists to ensure seamless connectivity across the area.
The stage will introduce four residential buildings and one rental housing building with six to eight gradually terraced stories. In total, it will provide 408 parking spaces, with the majority located in underground garages. The public spaces are designed to reflect the original allotment character of the area, known for its parcel layout and distinctive plantings. The inner courtyard will feature relaxation, recreational, and sports zones, including children’s playgrounds.
