128R154N1: memorial proposal
Conceptual design proposal for a memorial in the Park of the Erased is designed as a piece of urban furniture, which, despite its multifunctional design, does not compromise the monumental and visual aspect that the memorial deserves in relation to the theme of the erased. The proposed spatial arrangement is based on all the primary principles of contemporary design of public open spaces. In the design process, guidelines such as “prospect-refuge” in public spaces were considered, which provide users with a safe space for socializing and carrying out activities within the memorial. Recommendations for successfully designed inclusive public spaces with distances and proportions that best serve users in spending time in a given space were also taken into account.
The proposed urban furniture element is thoughtfully designed for several possible uses. It consists of benches of standard heights and dimensions, intended for sitting and observing the surroundings. Higher elements rise alongside the benches, such as a platform suitable for lounging on a summer day, reading stories of the erased, or the visitor’s favorite book. The structure also includes elements that can serve as a table or counter, both for everyday snacks and summer meetings in the park. The design of the structure, with a central bench for a mentor and circularly arranged platforms and benches for other participants, can also function as a gathering point for events and workshops to be held in the park.
The structural elements used are chosen for sustainable use, designed to withstand long-term weather and daily use. When choosing materials, we focused on basic building blocks used in space construction. The metal structure is made up of easily accessible standardized metal pipes, which can be replaced or renovated in case of wear or updated design. The horizontal wooden elements, intended for sitting and socializing, are made of larch wood, which is the most suitable wood for designing urban furniture elements due to its production of protective oils. These elements of the structure are also easily replaceable and generally accessible on the raw material market. When choosing the color of the verticals that symbolically form a safe and visible space, we chose a contrasting color to the green background and other materials that will form the area of the park. This color takes care that the memorial will not be erased within the park vista.
We also added a digital element to the design of the monument. Our proposal is to record selected already written stories as audio. Visitors could play the recorded stories by clicking on the link provided by the QR code. This proposed layout also gains an additional dimension in the digital space and the significance of the monument is expanded. The proposed urban equipment comes to life as a safe space where these stories are heard. When planning, we designed small openings in the structure into which small wireless audio devices could be inserted on special occasions—we suggest that one date per year be designated—for playing the recorded stories. The structure itself would then become a storyteller on these occasions.
The project was co-developed in collaboration with landscape architect Neža Mekota and in 2023 received the 3. Award from the Municipality of Ljubljana and it’s head urbanist.