Benches twist and swirl as they sweep their way across the new town square in Ålgård. Their form reflecting the spinning of wool; an industry that has been central to Ålgård’s identity and development. Appearing suspended in thin air, an effect enhanced by illumination from below at night, the benches’ playful lines capture interest and invite people of all ages to play, mingle or just relax. They combine the urbanity of the town square and the nature of the neighbouring park.

The design elements are woven into the transition between the square and the adjacent park, with their direction based on and reinforcing existing pedestrian connections. The surrounding brick paving of the square undulates up and down and forms water-filled puddles that collect rainwater. Rainwater is incorporated as an additional and sensual value in the project, where playful puddles and lush slopes with native species play a major role. This enhances local biological diversity and creates an interaction with nature’s processes.

The benches, terrain and stormwater management add new layers to the central urban space at Ålgård and create spaces for sensual and surprising experiences. At the same time, the space is flexible and can be used for many different purposes, both in everyday life and for special occasions. These qualities reinforce the overall plan for Ålgård town center, where Ålgård square has become an urban space that is always attractive – all day and for all seasons – from ice and frozen vegetation in the winter to flowerbeds and bird bathing in puddles in the summer.

Project Data

Landscape Architecture: ATSITE
Location: Ålgård, Rogaland, Norway
Year completed: 2018
Benches developed in collaboration with: Rampline
Photo credits: ATSITE, Marie v Krogh, Gjesdalbuen