Michael Van Valkenburgh i jego parki rekreacyjne XXI wieku

The architecture of the 21st century has become immersed in the principles of sustainable development. The urban parks that are built nowadays are architectural compositions that follow new rules. Specially selected plants require neither fertilization nor care – rainwater is collected in tanks and used during dry periods. Park lighting is supplied by solar batteries. The architectural works of Michael Van Valkenburgh represent his approach to sustainable development. The parks he has built in the 21st century are architectural structures that were entirely created at the designer’s desk – or rather at his computer. Modern technology combined with well-chosen plant material is part of the vision of a designer who places new value on the landscape. American Michael Van Valkenburgh is the designer of three parks which have been built in the last ten years in the New York metropolitan area. This article is a short review of both the early professional career of Michael Van Valkenburgh and his latest achievements. Included are examples of parks built in urban locations in a small space which are both recreational and artistically interesting. One of his projects that is currently under construction is the Brooklyn Bridge Park.