Project Description
Proposal Title | Urban Forest
The proposal concerns the configuration of a recreational space. The geometry of the field lends its triangular outline to the ingrown, but at the same time porous triangular shell. The inner stiffness of its geometry dictates the secondary axes, thus defining active pathways, areas for rest, indoor and open-air spaces. The coating of reflective-mirror sheets intensifies the optical depth of the circumferential deciduous vegetation and thus subdues the sharpness of the shape. The trees are reflected on the façade mirrors providing the impression of an urban forest, while the pivot-rotating panels implicate the optical interactive play. Vertical elements -trees and panels- configure, a visually mutative shell, which serves as a multiplier of space, vegetation, actions and doers and thus reeling passers in its wandering and transformation.
The intensification of the optical bond between the cathedral and the Hercules fountain demands the shear through the shell, the formation of a clear pathway and the bilateral arrangement of the indoor passive spaces (cafeteria, library, utility stalls, WC) of 190sm. total area. In between, the configuration of a children play area and an open-air theatre greets locals’ activities. A second open-air space, includes linear green walls, based on a collective effort of locals, who are responsible to plant herbs-flowers and also take care of them. The unbuilt area serves as a variety of active and passive spaces. It integrates flower beds, rolling benches and cycle parking. Pathways and walking networks surround the triangular field, infiltrate the shell and spread within.
The triangular shell grows entirely on the ground level. IPE structural beams, founded on reinforced concrete strip foundation, shape the steel frame, on which the reflective sheets are hung up. The ground surface, of unequal width elements of concrete, follows the basic synthetic axe.
The space, through its innovative and distinct design, attempts to respond to its supralocal character. The proposal aims to provide new spatial experiences to a wide age group. The diversity and presence of public space activate human interactivity and serve as a social condenser.