Urban Landscape: A Street Corner Blooming with Scientific Dreams
The park is inspired by high-tech innovation and focuses on the theme of "Quantum Science." It simplifies complex concepts such as atomic nuclei, electrons, and the solar system into visually engaging design elements. The design utilizes circles to symbolize balance, simplicity, and security, creating a spatial narrative throughout the park. In the middle of the park lies a central shared area representing the "Atomic Nucleus." Interactive and leisure zones, symbolizing "Electrons," are located at each end of this area. Visitors' movements link these zones, generating an energy field that mirrors the dynamic interactions of particles. Naturally drawn to the familiar circular shapes, children feel a sense of wonder and curiosity as they explore the space.
The High-Tech Quantum Pocket Park.
There is a revitalized space in the High-Tech Zone between Nankai Jingyang Elementary School and Chunmiao Kindergarten that combines innovation, nature, and community. Situated on the busy Higher Education Mega Center East Road, this previously unremarkable street corner, which spans approximately 800m², has become a lively hub of scientific exploration and community engagement. The area used to be filled with boring tree planters and uninteresting landscaping, making it hard for people to move around and not very inviting. Despite being in a great location, it was ignored and unused.
The new design has transformed the space into an exciting public area that meets the community's needs. The park now serves as a peaceful place for parents to wait for their kids, a convenient walkway for pedestrians, and an interactive playground for children to play and learn.
A High-Tech Haven: Quantum Science Meets Play
The park is inspired by high-tech innovation and focuses on the theme of "Quantum Science." It simplifies complex concepts such as atomic nuclei, electrons, and the solar system into visually engaging design elements. The design utilizes circles to symbolize balance, simplicity, and security, creating a spatial narrative throughout the park.
In the middle of the park lies a central shared area representing the "Atomic Nucleus." Interactive and leisure zones, symbolizing "Electrons," are located at each end of this area. Visitors' movements link these zones, generating an energy field that mirrors the dynamic interactions of particles. Naturally drawn to the familiar circular shapes, children feel a sense of wonder and curiosity as they explore the space.
Beneath the ground are educational illustrations of the planets, connecting the small world of quantum science with the grandeur of the solar system. By incorporating scientific learning into the park's playful environment, science becomes approachable and fun, encouraging children to develop a love for discovery. The installation aims to intertwine scientific education with recreational activities, making learning about space an enjoyable experience for young visitors.
The park's layout is centred around a circular trajectory, drawing visitors toward the space's core. This simple yet powerful design gives rise to a three-tiered structure—outer, middle, and inner zones—each fulfilling a different purpose. The outer zone offers public seating, the middle zone offers a lush plant community, and the inner zone offers interactive play spaces.
The circular seating varies in height to accommodate people of all ages, allowing for a relaxed, pressure-free resting posture. Surrounding the seating, clusters of plant communities bring the space to life, their canopies offering shade and a softer transition between built and natural environments. These layered zones create a dynamic spatial experience, inviting exploration and connection with nature.
Sustainable Design: A Tribute to Chongqing's Spirit
The park's ecological design includes the Huang Jue Tree (Ficus virens), symbolizing Chongqing's resilience and vitality. Carefully chosen local plants surround this focal point, fostering a sense of connection to the city's landscape. Wildflower paths and herbaceous plants enhance the natural ambiance, creating an environment that changes seasons and encourages residents to interact with their surroundings.
This verdant oasis beautifies the urban environment and reinforces the importance of sustainability. With their year-round presence, the choice of plants ensures that the space remains vibrant and inviting throughout the year.
A Visual and Emotional Transformation
The park's visual appeal plays a significant role in attracting and engaging visitors. A series of circular patterns on the ground create a dynamic and lively aesthetic, bringing energy and movement to the previously static site. Inspired by the deep blue tones of the High-Tech Zone's logo, the park's colour palette strikes a balance between natural greens and striking blues—reminiscent of Klein Blue—symbolizing intelligence, hope, and the boundless potential of technology.
The playful yet thoughtful use of colour draws in passersby and sparks curiosity and joy among children. Through engaging design, the park becomes a space where scientific knowledge meets the imagination, allowing young minds to dream amidst an ideal blue backdrop.
A Corner Transformed: A Hub for Community and Innovation
What was once a nondescript street corner has been revitalized into a thriving community space. Neighbours gather here to relax, children's laughter fills the air, and the park's vibrant energy draws in the surrounding residents. The Quantum Pocket Park enhances the aesthetic and functional value of its immediate surroundings and symbolizes the High-Tech Zone's dedication to science, innovation, and public engagement.
In this transformed city corner, the pocket park integrates science and everyday life, fostering a deeper connection between the citizens and their environment. It is a beacon of the community's aspirations for a better, more innovative future—where dreams take root and bloom.
Project: High-Tech Quantum Pocket Park
Project Location: Nankai Jingyang Elementary School, High-Tech Zone, Chongqing
Design Firm: 10Design
Presentation Date: July 2023
For more information, please visit: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/Paya2mzILVzEM_DVNjKXpA