Transforming Mali plac: A Climate Resilient Urban Space in Varaždin

As part of the Be Ready project, the City of Varaždin has launched a pilot intervention at Mali plac, one of the most heat-vulnerable public squares identified through its Urban Heat Island (UHI) risk assessment. Led by the Development Agency North in cooperation with the Municipality of Varaždin, the initiative demonstrates how targeted climate adaptation measures can bring tangible improvements to everyday urban spaces.

Facing increasingly high summer temperatures caused by sealed surfaces, limited shade, and insufficient greenery, the pilot introduced three innovative shading canopies, upgraded urban furniture (benches, tables, swings), and solar-powered lighting. These improvements aim to reduce heat stress for local residents. Serving a dense residential neighbourhood—many of whom are elderly and particularly vulnerable to heat—the intervention is expected to benefit around 2,000 direct users and provides a replicable model for other areas of the city.

The redesign of Mali plac was co-created with input from citizens, universities, and municipal departments. It integrates “white measures”—reflective surfaces and comfort-enhancing elements—aligned with the Be Ready project’s green, blue, and white acupuncture approach to small-scale climate adaptation.

The pilot was presented during a peer-review meeting attended by project partners and local stakeholders, positioning Mali plac as a living demonstration site for climate-resilient urban design. Beyond delivering physical improvements, the project also strengthens local governance, cooperation, and community engagement in adaptation planning.