Stormwater pond at Exercisfältet

To preserve as much space as possible for activity and recreation on the field, the permanent pond has been made as small as possible. In the event of heavy rainfall, the water will flood the pond, occupy the surrounding areas, and create water mirrors of different sizes and shapes. During extreme rainfall, the promenade will also be flooded, and the water will extend far away.

Despite the stormwater ponds strong form and the high altitude of the field, the location of the dam in a natural low point in the landscape allows it to land discreetly without disturbing its surroundings. Closest to the city, we have given the pond a sharp edge with a robust flood protection in the form of a concrete wall that follows the lines of the block division. Towards the open field, we have instead allowed the pond to follow the undulating forms of nature.

The vegetation is carefully adapted to the natural conditions of the site and consists of a combination of species that are both hardy and have water purifying properties. The different parts of the pond are flooded by different amounts of rainfall and have great potential to develop into a good habitat for many different animals and plants.

Around the pond there are generous spaces and paths inviting visitors to move along the water’s edge and sit down on one of the south-facing seating areas overlooking the field. The pond is already being used and appreciated by people moving around the area. It is likely that development to the south of the pond will continue to move closer to the edge of the jetty, bringing even more life and movement. The pond is designed to accommodate this development and provide an exciting interface between dense block structure and open landscape space.