Folly Forest, Winnipeg/Kanada

AppreciationGerman Landscape Architecture Award 2013

Jury verdict: The project shows in a striking way how a nameless and faceless schoolyard can be given a new lease of life with the simplest of means. Unusual production methods and the consistent use of used materials gave rise to a surprisingly unconventional-looking space. The "Dance Floor for Trees" was created with the active participation of teachers and students. The joy of design is evident in the open space.
Directness and action generate a coherent landscape architectural concept: broken holes in the asphalt are planted, the resulting grove of trees creates a completely new spatial atmosphere. With just a few interventions, the old schoolyard is transformed into an adventurous fantasy world.

But despite the seemingly very spontaneous perforation, no chaotic landscape of rubble is created. The new planting sites are carefully positioned and shaped, coloured edge markings reinforce the impression of a large constellation.
With carefree ease, found objects are integrated into the concept as furniture, play elements or even "lookouts for earthworms".

This creates a spatial result that opens up new perspectives away from the design and technical habits of landscape architecture: As a "participatory architecture", it can inspire committed people without, however, slipping into the arbitrary and abandoning its design aspirations.