AIR Rotterdam

A prototype high-line

Architecture International Rotterdam (AIR) invited 8 architects / landscape architects across the world to make studies for new publics paces within the city as part of Rotterdam 2001 Cultural Capital of Europe. GROSS. MAX. was commissioned to study the transformation of the Hofplein Viaduct; a former elevated railway line and end station. The proposal consists of raised promenades linking an iconic glasshouse with a series of public parks and plazas. Arches under the viaduct provide for workshops. This new configuration provides a network of public open space, which operates on different levels of the city. The former Hofplein Station will become the location for a large glasshouse. The transparent structure is superimposed over the artefacts of the old railway station and will encapsulate a horticultural extravaganza of exotic plants. The minimalist structure of the glass box is in strong contrast to the organic orgy of flowers it contains. At night the glasshouse is transformed into a light-box with gigantic shadow projections of voluptuous plants displayed on its outer skin. A dazzling kaleidoscopic image of nature perfected in hybrid flowers, mutant foliage and genetically modified fruits. Anarchic, nocturnal, amorphous, monstrous and indescribable --- Landscape Architecture as skillful, accurate, and magnificent interplay of assembled vegetation under light….The glasshouse will become a hedonistic pleasure zone not unlike the illustrious public winter gardens in Berlin. Paris and Vienna. Inspired by the discovery that the original railway line – between city and the beach- was nicknamed the “perfume line” due to its reputation for prostitution we envisaged the elevated railway as a catwalk induced by a movable feast of nature providing a sensual response to sights, textures, smells and tactile sensations. With the benefit of hindsight, the proposal can be regarded as the prototype Highline “avant la lettre”.

Other invited design teams included: West 8, Charles Corea, Kazuyo Sejima & Rue Nishizawa, Georges Hargreaves, George Decombes, Kamel Louafi, Piet Oudolff, Atelier Quadrat.