Veszprém, Hungary
Budapest-based design practice Hello Wood has created a temporary, geometrical pavilion made of planted wooden containers shaped in a caleidoscope-like manner, with names of cities and villages engraved on them, symbolizing the collaborative efforts of the 116 municipalities participating in the Veszprém-Balaton 2023 European Capital of Culture program.
“For each municipality participating in the VEB2023 program, we have designed a unique planter box, with the name of the municipality clearly displayed on the side, containing a sapling. In Veszprém, which is the central site of the European Capital of Culture 2023, we have set up a Garden of Communities, consisting of 116 planters, which promotes the eternal values of community cooperation,” states Balázs Szelecsényi.
The uniquely shaped planters create a spectacular exhibition space, accessible to anyone.
The contrast between the geometric architectural forms and the lush vegetation creates a magical atmosphere, attracting visitors who can wander around the pavilion and browse through the names of the villages or cities that hold dear memories for them.
The native tree saplings of the region, planted in crates, together form a biodiverse vertical garden that grows and strengthens with the seasons.
The consistent growth of vegetation is ensured by an automated irrigation system built into the structures.
In addition, the complex structure provides the vegetation with different sun, wind, and rainfall conditions, allowing the tree species to be planted in the right position for their water and sun needs.
The historical significance of the site, which was home to one of the largest furniture factories in the region for some 120 years, was also a key factor in the design.
This historical heritage is commemorated by the cladding of the planter boxes, which is made from almost 120-year-old reclaimed timber, the old larch planking from the recently renovated Drechsler Palace in Budapest.
The use of antique materials contributes to the timelessness of the work, in addition to the historical reference.
After four years, each of the planters will be returned to its respective municipality, where the saplings will take root and continue to grow into trees symbolizing the unity of 2023.
Also within the framework of the EKF 2023 program, the Hello Wood architectural summer school and festival will return between 6 and 15 July, in a new inspiring location, the basalt mine of Zalahaláp.
Project: Garden of Communities Pavilion
Architects: Hello Wood Zrt.
Lead Architects: Balázs Szelecsényi
Associate Architect: Szilvia Odry
Landscape Design: Enikő Kapás
Structural Design: László Pongor
Client: Veszprém 2030 Műszaki Infrastruktúra Fejlesztő Kft.
Photographers: György Palkó
