H&M ELEMENTS COLOURS OF OSTRAVA
The industrial character of Dolní Vítkovice, the festival atmosphere, and a focus on sustainability were all reflected in the design of the H&M ELEMENTS zone at Colours of Ostrava. For the construction of the zone and its facilities, temporary bridge structure elements were used for the first time ever. After the festival, these elements were easily dismantled and returned to their original purpose.
CONCEPT
The brief for the festival zone emphasized temporality, sustainability, originality, and diversity. The zone is organized into four interconnected areas—referred to as elements. Each element is programmed to host different activities and atmospheres throughout the festival days.
The zone is located within a narrow alley, and the layout is adapted accordingly to guide visitors through all four elements. At the same time, each element allows for independent access.
All components are designed for reuse or future applications. We select construction methods and materials that allow for high spatial flexibility, while also sizing the design to accommodate large numbers of people and various types of furniture.
CONSTRUCTION PUZZLE
The architecture of the H&M ELEMENTS zone is derived from the industrial character of Dolní Vítkovice. The structure is designed to blend seamlessly with the environment, focusing attention both on the activities within the zone and on its surroundings.
Requirements for modularity, ease of assembly, and high load-bearing capacity led to the choice of a temporary steel structure. We used a system typically employed in bridge construction. In collaboration with a structural engineer, this system was applied for the first time for a different purpose. We adapted its form and utilized its strength to support suspended elements as well as overall structural loads.
The exact number of specific elements is transported to the site and assembled in place. After the festival, they are dismantled and returned to storage, ready for future use, such as in bridge construction.
SUSTAINABILITY
After the festival, the H&M ELEMENTS zone is completely dismantled. The steel structure is transported back to its original storage, where it awaits future use in bridge construction or other structural projects.
The furniture, including the modular flooring, is returned after use. Some of the furniture is reused for other events, while the concrete rings continue to serve as furniture in the outdoor seating area of a café in Prague.
The textiles are donated in collaboration with H&M and subsequently used by a vocational clothing school. Single-use items, such as tableware, are selected to be fully recyclable.
ARCHITECTURE
The chosen system allows for a high degree of spatial and architectural flexibility. Each of the four elements covers one “temple.” Entry to the first temple is through an elevated tower space. The load-bearing system enables division of the structure both horizontally and vertically, allowing the addition of intermediate levels or even an entire floor.
The elements host different activities throughout the day. In the Fire element, a bar and dance floor are set up from the afternoon into the late evening. The Water element features a relaxation zone with large cushioned concrete rings and hanging chairs. The Earth element is designed as a green oasis with plants, where thematic workshops are organized around a large central table. The Air temple is dedicated to sports activities.
Each temple is designed as a two-storey structure. On the upper floor, a gallery runs along the perimeter, while the central area remains double-height. The upper level serves multiple functions: part of it is designed as a gallery with a daily rotating artist presentation, and another part is a semi-enclosed space for VIP guests. The remaining areas are furnished with a mix of fixed and movable furniture, including tables with chairs, armchairs, and large netted seating areas with cushions.
Colorful strips of fabric enhance the atmosphere and define the different areas of the zone. The fabrics create intimate corners or open up the space as needed. Their color and gentle movement contrast with the steel structure. As a result, one of the original Dolní Vítkovice buildings is transformed into a festival zone.
Realization: 2019
Usable area: 512 m2
Location: Dolní Vítkovice, Ostrava, Czech republic
Photos: Václav Novák
