Evolution of Greenery in Housing Estates

Abstract

One of the basic values of multi-family housing estates which were built in the second half of the 20th century was their green areas. It was assumed that open spaces would serve both recreational and health purposes (related to air ventilation or air purification). In Poland, as in other socialist countries, these areas were parameterized and their size was defined in the relevant legislative documents. The principles of location of these sites in the structure of the estate as well as their equipment have changed during the period taken under consideration. Comparative analysis of specific realizations allows for their characterization and evaluation and reference to contemporary views. In the 1940s and 1950s, these areas were designed in the form of small squares and green areas located in the neighbourhood of the streets. In the sixties and seventies there were small residential parks (usually less than 1 ha). In the 1980s, extensive green areas were being developed which, for economic reasons, remained untouched in a functional way. Another decade (1990s) is associated with political and economic changes in Poland. In the case of estate greenery, it resulted in a complete deviation from its implementation. However, green was introduced on the roofs of buildings (including underground garages). Nowadays, the return to the design of large areas of greenery connected with housing development is being re-established. Their main function is recreational and leisure. One of the new tasks assigned to them is the task of gathering precipitation water. As a result of the analyses conducted, the author indicates which of the historical realizations (chosen periods) best meet modern needs and which can be adapted.