The aim of this article is to analyse the effects that have been achieved during the design and implementation of the Public Park at the “Balaton” in Warsaw. This case is interesting due to the fact that the process of its design was based on the principles of public participation, with active involvement from professional designers, the local community and the authorities of the district. The large number of visitors to the park stands as a testament to the success of the project and the attractive nature of the area. This example is thus an interesting base for analysis. The article contains a thesis that, when properly carried out, public participation ceases to be a “rotten compromise” (in the context of aesthetics, function, etc.), but allows new physical and social values to be introduced into a space.

The aim of this article is to analyse the effects that have been achieved during the design and implementation of the Public Park at the “Balaton” in Warsaw. This case is interesting due to the fact that the process of its design was based on the principles of public participation, with active involvement from professional designers, the local community and the authorities of the district. The large number of visitors to the park stands as a testament to the success of the project and the attractive nature of the area. This example is thus an interesting base for analysis. The article contains a thesis that, when properly carried out, public participation ceases to be a “rotten compromise” (in the context of aesthetics, function, etc.), but allows new physical and social values to be introduced into a space.