The stage, as a dynamic and diverse entity, serves as a platform for communication and artistic expression, constantly evolving to shape future values and content. Its design embraces continuous change in space and time, achieved through the harmonious integration of human, nature, and technology. The Sommerbühne, located in a prominent urban area, transcends its role as a mere representation and transforms into a space for encounters and relaxation, becoming a permanent fixture in the urban realm. Sustainability, in this context, is not only achieved through simplicity and discourse but also through the resonance of collective experiences on-site. To address the issue of hot surfaces during the summer season, the design emphasizes the introduction of a dense green vegetation, which activates the large patio originally made of sealed concrete.
The Sommerbühne is in a continuous transformation driven by a future-oriented selection of durable, flexible materials, climate-resilient vegetation. Over time, the initially separate materials blend to form a symbiotic structure. The stage, as an ecosystem, communicates differently throughout the day and gradually evolves with each passing day.
The spatial composition is characterized by three distinct zones, each featuring unique vegetation:
An urban garden undergoing constant transformation, where fruits and vegetables thrive at different times throughout the year, transforming the urban space into a fertile field where visitors can actively engage in harvesting.
A "meadow" adorned with tall grass, providing a touch of nature and evoking the ambiance of a picnic in the woods within the dense urban environment.
A small stage that fosters intimate dialogues. Nestled amidst nature, visitors are encouraged to collectively shape their thoughts and engage in meaningful conversations.
This project serves as an exploration of alternative solutions for urban areas in the face of climate change. By cultivating a culture of participation, the stage brings nature into the urban setting, facilitating direct interactions with the natural environment and becoming a place of care. It challenges traditional urban furnishing typologies, offering a space for multiple species to coexist.
Status: Built
Location: Vienna, AT
Firm Role: Architect
Additional Credits: OpenFields Team
Mark Balzar
Zeynep Aksöz Balzar
Consultancy
Xavier Madden
Engineering
Werkraum Ingenieure
Flora
DnD Landschaftsplanung
Fabrication
Perco Peter Trenkler