As Gothenburg, Sweden's urban fabric begins to change, Utopia Arkitekter have swooped in with a proposed urban plan for the development of Hovås II, located in the south of the city. Their firm's proposal has won the jury's acclaim over Snøhetta and Gehl Architects and they are now moving toward the project's next phase.
In our proposal for Hovås, we have expanded on the qualities of Hovås I with its mixed buildings, services and various business facilities, as well as access to nature and recreational areas.
By integrating the second part of the plan with its adjacent first portion, Utopia's design allows a seamless transition complete with a traffic solution. Showcasing specific qualities inherent to the site will also allow for a vibrant recreational system. (Placing green space in areas that surround the creek contribute to that notion.) Covering a total area of 79,580 square meters, the plan will include 900 residential units, a library, a cultural center, a cinema, swimming pool and almost 50,000 square meters of retail space.
Utopia's proposed traffic solutions aim to create a "more coherent neighborhood." Reducing the width of the motorway zone and fluidly transitioning between Hovås I and II are just part of the team's overall goal. Hovås borders both the sea and nature areas of its region, the city will develop into a small-scale "mixed-use" city.
We have strived to create a traffic solution that, rather than splitting the community in two, will make the least possible impact on the life quality for the residents. The function of the motorway as a throughway and slip road feeder has been taken into account, while the underpass – Hovås Allé – has been regarded as an important connecting link and access to the urban development.
While Hovås I centers on proximity to the sea, Hovås II looks toward the lake and nature reserve, with a small footpath that leads to the lake. Extruding the roundabout from the plan will also provide a cleaner composition within the city.
There is a call for innovation and creative thinking on how the area can evolve further. Social and environmental sustainability over time is desired.
Architects
Location
436 50 Hovås, SwedenProject Year
2016Photographs
Courtesy of Utopia Arkitekter
News Via: Utopia Arkitekter
