micropark

Micropark is a term used to describe a very small urban park designed to provide accessible green space within dense city neighborhoods. Smaller than traditional city parks, microparks typically cover a few hundred to a few thousand square meters and emphasize compact, multi-use layouts that maximize permeability, seating, and shade. They are intended to offer ecological, social, and health benefits in places where larger parks are impractical.

Common features include durable paving, permeable surfaces to manage rainwater, native plantings, benches, play elements suitable for children and adults, and clear pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. In many designs, microparks incorporate flexible spaces that can accommodate small events, educational signage, public art, and opportunities for temporary installations.

Microparks are often created through collaborative processes involving residents, local businesses, and municipal authorities. They may arise from temporary or tactical urbanism projects, such as pop-up parks or repurposed vacant lots, with the aim of testing ideas before permanent investment. Funding typically combines public budgets, philanthropic contributions, and private partnerships, while maintenance is handled by city staff, community groups, or service contracts.

Variations include rooftop microparks, alleyway perimeters, or pocket parks embedded in street fronts. The concept is widely adopted in cities seeking to increase urban greenery, reduce heat islands, and encourage walking and social interaction in small-scale, low-cost ways. Critics point to limited capacity to address larger green space deficits and the need for long-term maintenance commitments.

See also pocket park, urban greening, tactical urbanism.