Quality Public Space

We develop public spaces based on people's needs, friendly for gathering and movement, and resilient to climate change.

Public space significantly shapes the everyday life of people in towns and municipalities. It is a place for meeting, movement, rest, sporting and social activities, and it has a direct impact on residents' relationship to their homes. At the ŠKODA AUTO Endowment Fund, we therefore see quality public space as one of the fundamental pillars of healthy, cohesive, and long-term sustainable regions.

We support the creation and renewal of public spaces that respond to people's real needs, respect the identity of a place, and achieve high urban and architectural quality. We strive for solutions that are accessible to everyone regardless of age or disability and that create space for active movement, meeting, and the meaningful use of leisure time.

Public space as the foundation of life in municipalities

Quality public space supports community life and natural relationships between people. We therefore focus on projects that bring places to life and strengthen their everyday use. These include, for example, the revitalisation of squares, parks, and public spaces, the creation of community centres, or safe places for different generations to meet.

An important part of our support is involving the public in planning and decision-making, particularly in projects that significantly affect the character of towns and municipalities. We also support the conceptual development of areas that sensitively connect the historical and cultural character of a place with modern needs.

Greenery, resilience, and long-term sustainability

Public space also plays a key role in adapting to climate change. We therefore support projects that increase the share of greenery and water features, help retain rainwater, and contribute to cooling the urban environment and to the development of biodiversity. Typical examples are parks with retention features, green streets, tree alleys, or adaptations of public areas that support the natural functions of the landscape.

Our support also includes developing infrastructure for active and safe transport, such as walking and cycling routes or barrier-free public spaces. We are aware that the development of public space is a long-term process that requires cooperation between local authorities, experts, and residents. We therefore place emphasis on the quality of project preparation, open dialogue, and continuity of solutions that help regions prepare for future challenges.