Wooden circles have appeared on the lake in Słupca. This unusual footbridge is the first of more than a dozen elements of the promenade under construction. Responsible for its design is Paweł Grobelny, a designer who has won numerous awards for concepts of urban spaces, both in Poland and abroad.
The piers on Lake Słupeckie consist of two circles
Photo: Janusz Nowak © Paweł Grobelny
The Słupeckie Lake Promenade and landscaping, like Paweł Grobelny's other projects, are characterized by formal economy and the use of natural materials.
I was very keen on fitting into the existing context, designing rather smaller spatial objects that would blend well with nature, and use its qualities rather than compete with it. The individual viewing platforms and terraces are meant to invite the residents of Słupca to frequent this space. I'm also glad that, although the project is still under construction, it is very well received by the residents of Słupca," says Paweł Grobelny.
Among other things, seats, platforms and a boules court will be built around the lake. The entire project is planned to be completed by the end of 2023.
Platforms on Lake Słupeckie are the first stage of the project
Photo: Janusz Nowak © Paweł Grobelny
interview with Paweł Grobelny
Dobrawa Bies: The footbridge is the first of more than a dozen elements of the lake promenade under construction. It took the form of two connected circles. Why such a decision?
Paweł Grobelny: The forms of the individual elements, on the one hand, result from the reference to the swedish mound, that is, the crown of the rampart of the ring mound of the Lusatian culture, on the other hand, they provide more opportunities to explore the natural surroundings. The individual piers are placed where reeds naturally occur, so walking on the piers allows for different perspectives of observing nature, but also produces many places to rest, sit down—than a traditional pier.
Dobrawa: What are the next stages of the project and the features introduced? Do you intend to maintain the minimalist style?
Paweł Grobelny: Yes, all elements have a rather minimalist form, not only the forms, but also the materials used are repeated. More piers are under construction. The largest will have a diameter of 35 meters. A boules court is also being built, individual seating, but also a lot of wood platforms that will allow larger groups to spend time together.
From the platforms you can observe nature
Photo: Janusz Nowak © Paweł Grobelny
Dobrawa: What materials did you use and how will their use affect the natural surroundings?
Paweł Grobelny: The basic material is wood, which is used for the piers, viewing and resting platforms, seats and other elements. It was important to use natural material, but also to keep the variety of materials to a minimum, due to the nature of the site. Indeed, the individual elements should not compete with the natural surroundings, but skillfully blend into them.
Dobrawa: What are your upcoming design plans?
Paweł Grobelny: I am currently working on two projects related to public spaces, one is being built in Poland and the other in France.
Dobrawa: In that case, I wish you good luck and thank you for the interview.
