Israel's Square
The history of Copenhagen’s ramparts is dramatic and unique. Parts of the history is still appearing in the public spaces of the city - in Tivoli, Ørsted Parken, the Botanic Garden and Østre Anlæg. Israel's Square is placed right in between Ørsted Parken and the Botanic Garden.
Israel's Square is Copenhagen's new urban plaza. The urban space consists overall of a folded surface floating above the ground - like a flying carpet. The square, or surface, hovers between two worlds: the city and Ørsted Parken. The park wanders into the square as a series of cut-outs on the surface. Foldings are added toward east and west.
The square serves as one big open space for playing and activities. Different challenges and facilities are created on the surface inspiring visitors for stay, play and ball games. For example, niches with bench formations under the tree crowns, a lowered green playground area close to N. Zahle School, areas for ball games and play, and a trickling waterfall.
At the transition between the square and Ørstedsparken the project establishes a clear distinction between square and park while also ensuring a coherence and accessibility between the two. This is achieved with an "overlap" of 7 meters between park and square creating a flying platform which opens up towards the park. Perforations of the square surface connect the park to the square.
