At the County Palace in Varaždin, the Spatial and Programmatic Study for the development of the area along Drava River was presented to the public. The study, developed by 3LHD, outlines an ambitious urban concept for an area of nearly 50 hectares in the northeastern part of the city, which is currently predominantly used for industrial purposes but holds significant potential for urban transformation.
The study proposes the creation of a new urban district based on the “15-minute city” principle, meaning that all essential services, such as a primary school, kindergarten, health centre, cultural institutions, and a market, are accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. The district will also feature an abundance of green areas, public spaces, and amenities that encourage a sustainable lifestyle.
As highlighted during the presentation, the aim of the project is not only to reshape one part of the city spatially, but also to strategically reconnect Varaždin with the Drava River, a natural resource of great importance to the city’s identity and quality of life.
Marko Dabrović, representing the 3LHD team, presented the project, emphasizing that it reflects a thoughtful, responsible, and long-term vision of Varaždin’s development as a modern and sustainable city — one that could serve as a model for others.
