From Neglect to Resilience: Sofia’s New Climate Shelter Transforms Urban Void into a Community Space

A neglected municipal yard in Sofia’s Draz Mahala neighborhood has been reborn as a city urban climate shelter, providing a vital refuge from rising temperatures while revitalizing a vulnerable part of the capital. Officially inaugurated on September 17, 2025 – Sofia Day, the pilot project has turned 350 square meters of disuse and decay into a green, inviting space co-designed with and for the community.

Located near Lion’s Bridge - one of the busiest and most heat-exposed transport hubs in the city - the climate shelter addresses a pressing urban challenge: the increasing impact of urban heat islands (UHI). The area is home to diverse and often vulnerable populations, including seniors, low-income households, and migrants.

The transformation began in May with a co-design workshop attended by residents, students, artists, NGO workers, and migrants. From there, the project grew into a dynamic collaboration involving over 130 stakeholders through volunteer efforts, planning sessions, and artistic interventions.

Together, they cleared the site of debris and redesigned it with permeable surfaces for natural water absorption, installed a shaded seating area with a water misting system and drinking fountain for cooling and comfort. Following expert guidance from the University of Forestry they planted climate-appropriate trees and greenery, created raised garden beds with a small community herbal garden. The climate shelter hosts added eco-friendly features including a compost bin, rainwater collector, bug hotel, and birdhouses.

Young artists from Vuzel Studio brought the space to life with public art and storytelling installations focused on climate change awareness.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Citizens appreciate the cooling effects as well as new amenities like free health checks, board games, and opportunities to engage with the garden. The pilot has been endorsed by Sofia’s municipal and district leadership for its innovation, inclusive design, and successful use of municipally owned land.

District officials especially praised the concept of acupuncture “pocket parks” - small, smartly designed green spaces that offer relief where larger parks aren’t feasible.

The climate shelter is now managed by the Sofia Development Association, with support from the Serdika District Administration. NGOs benefiting from the Europe grantmaking program, housed in the renovated municipal building on-site, can use the space for their activities.

The success of this pilot will inform Sofia’s Be Ready Action Plan. The project has also validated the "acupuncture" approach - small, strategic interventions that have a big ripple effect.