THE GLOBE
WHERE:
Aarhus, Denmark 2015
COLLABORATION:
Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects
CUSTOMER:
Aarhus city
‘The Globe’ is situated outside the cultural center and main library by the harbour of Aarhus. The project was created in collaboration with Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects as part of an urbanisation of the waterfront.
On the l4.400 sqm large deck we designed a narrative playground as pendent to the many stories inside the library. In addition, the ambition was to create a design to match the architectural expression of the building.
The ropes under the wings can be climbed and balanced on, so the kids can imagine themselves flying alongside the eagle.
REACH THE HIGHEST PEAK
The shape of the volcano is interpreted in an abstract and geometrical form. The bright and intense orange color expresses heat and activity and is a key element in communicating the story of the volcano.
The orange line segments make an intense contrast to the calm grey and the sharp lines of the form. Photo by Per Borch.
The volcano is hollow and painted bright red on the inside. Here the kids can climb the rope that is suspended across the walls.
A PLAYGROUND THAT TAKES YOU ALL AROUND THE WORLD
'DOKK1' contains the main library - a symbol of the culture, history and knowledge of our globe. We based the design of the playgrounds on this theme, by placing five playgrounds representing a specific compass direction with fragments and small stories about the nature, animals, landscapes, geology and culture from the specific areas.
Each play area is offering different opportunities and spaces to play, aiming to inspire and evoke children’s and adult’s curiosity and bringing the stories from the library to life.
WRESTLE WITH THE GIANT RUSSIAN BEAR
The Russian bear is 7,5 meter tall holding a hollow trunk for the kids to slide down through. On the inside of the bear there are small Russian paintings.
SAY HELLO TO THE KING OF THE JUNGLE
Teens find the playground area to be a cosy hangout space at night.
The nest swing is a relaxing experience for both kids and adults.
SLIDE ON THE BACK OF THE CHINESE DRAGON
The dragon has a slide and steps on its back which is designed to fit the smaller children.
BALANCE ON THE WOBBLY FLOES
To the North you will find ice flows on springs to balance and jump on.
THE PRODUCTION OF THE GLOBE
Watch the setup of the playgrounds for DOKK1.
