Architects: JAJA Architects
Year: 2021
Transforming a Loading Area into a Vibrant Plaza
A Vision for Urban Connectivity
JAJA Architects undertook the task of converting a former loading area into a dynamic plaza, envisioning a seamless extension of sports and cultural activities from Gigantium, Aalborg’s largest sports and culture center, into the outdoor realm. The design, marked by playful red and white elements, not only guides visitors into the square but also imparts a unique identity to the concrete landscape.
The Red Carpet: A Contrast Amidst Nature
Set against a backdrop of a green field with grazing sheep and a local bicycle route, the red plaza stands out as a striking contrast to its natural surroundings. Aptly named the “Red Carpet,” this vibrant space serves as a guiding path, inviting people to pause, socialize, or engage in recreational activities. Various rouge shapes divide the forecourt into distinct sections, complemented by whimsical white lines.
Dynamic Design: Infusing Energy into Urban Spaces
As visitors follow the playful lines, they encounter an array of elements such as rails, plateaus, steps, graphics, and greenery that beckon them to partake in sports, games, or relaxation. This diverse yet cohesive design establishes Gigantium as a hub for both sports enthusiasts and those seeking entertainment.
Lively Graphics: A Creative Touch
A standout feature of the plaza is the vibrant graphics conceived by the Danish design studio, Rama Studio. These graphics, outlined in a simple white line, serve multiple purposes – from functioning as training elements to providing wayfinding cues and serving as dynamic decorations. Covering various surfaces, the graphics extend into three-dimensional shapes, shaping fitness bars, rails, and a plateau landscape.
Integrating with Transportation: The PlusBus Stop
Integral to Aalborg Municipality’s ‘Plusbus’ program, the new urban space aligns with an environmentally friendly bus connection strategy. Part of the project involved emphasizing Gigantium as a prominent ‘PlusBus’ stop destination. This strategic move aligns with the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) concept, elevating the connectivity between transport and urban development.
A Dynamic Fusion of Urbanity and Recreation
The Red Plaza in Aalborg, Denmark, is not merely a redesigned space; it is a vibrant fusion of urban design, recreational opportunities, and environmental consciousness. JAJA Architects, through thoughtful use of color, form, and graphics, has created a welcoming and energetic environment that extends the cultural and sports vibrancy of Gigantium into the open air.
