Green pavilions / Groningen, Zwolle, Veenwouden / 2014-2022
Edible greenery in the city. Dome-shaped pavilions that fit site-specifically to the urban location of the so-called Stadsbalkon in front of Groningen train station, an asphalt slab that strongly detonates with the historical environment of this location. The pavilions are green oases and, with their plants and shade, reduce heat stress in this extraordinary urban area.
Edible city, growth made visible
The growth of the crops is a fourth dimension, the appearance and experience change over time, greening is shown in this urban area and makes the growth of edible vegetables (Edible city) and seasons visible in the city. Grape plants, pole beans, edible flowers and hops grow there. The cathedrals are interwoven with willow sticks. These provide support for climbing plants, but also give a natural look.
The three circular domes have an internal, closed character: people sit inside, surrounded by greenery. The existing balconies/seating facilities at this location face outwards. The shapes are thus connected to each other.
Festival of 1 hour
In the course of the year, an ad-hoc 'flash mob'-like event was held: The 1-hour festival where the audience rotated from pavilion to pavilion in a carousel and artists performed in their own green pavilion. This turned the pavilions into small theaters.
The project consists of steel, willow and the wooden containers refer to Groningen as a potato-producing province. The green pavilions are used intensively and embraced by the public, making relaxing and enjoying the greenery an additional visual element for visitors.
This sustainable project can be reused and used at other locations, the project continued in the cities of Zwolle and Veenwouden. Wherever they are, the neighborhood is active, both during installation and maintenance. They are therefore both green and social additions to the cityscape.
http://www.merijnvrij.nl/#/groenpaviljoens-1/
The 1 hour festival is captured in a small compilation video. You can clearly see what a pleasant use the domes have …
https://youtu.be/vwpRVu8Ht_0
