Square in Heerlen gets a new multifunctional and green look
‘Burgemeester van Grunsvenplein is in need of renovation’. That is the conclusion reached by the Municipality of Heerlen. The well-known square in this South Limburg town deserves a thorough makeover. That is why Buro Lubbers and diederendirrix architectuur & stedenbouw have been commissioned by the municipality to develop a design. This has resulted in a design for a multifunctional and green square. Among other things, the square will soon be suitable for events. Grijsen has been approached by contractor Besix Infra Nederland to create various seating areas for the redevelopment.
- Client
- Besix Infra Nederland BV, Gemeente Heerlen
- Landscape architect
- Buro Lubbers, diederendirrix architectuur & stedenbouw
- Location
- Heerlen
A square for the future
The aim of the square’s renovation was to make the site future-proof. Everyone should be able to feel at home on Van Grunsvenplein: young and old, residents and visitors, culture lovers and sports enthusiasts. To ensure the square remains suitable for both small and large events, as well as for everyday use, it was decided to design the square as two open, unobstructed spaces. One larger space in front of the theatre and one opposite the pond.
Flower beds with seating areas
Following the renovation, the square has been fitted with a large number of planting beds. These beds are formed using concrete edging and planted with colourful flowers. In addition, wooden seating has been installed in various locations: some with backrests, others without; some with curved seats, others with straight ones. No additional ‘freestanding’ outdoor benches are required, which limits the number of elements in the square. This creates a sense of tranquillity in the public space.
Pond bench
In the design by Buro Lubbers and diederendirrix, the existing pond has been given a new lease of life. The pond has been renovated and is looking splendid once again. The water is clear and the fountain is gushing like never before. A lovely lounge bench has also been added to the edge of the pond. Visitors can enjoy dipping their feet in the water and cooling off on the square. The pond bench brings the total length of seating to 56 metres.
Young and old, residents and visitors, culture lovers and sports enthusiasts – there’s something for everyone at Van Grunsvenplein in the 21st century
LED lighting
LED lighting has been fitted beneath all the seating areas. In the evenings, the planting beds are illuminated with floodlighting, making the square a pleasant and atmospheric place to visit even after dark. Thanks to the RGB colour system, the LED strips can emit a wide range of colours.
Sun loungers
Four sun loungers have also been installed. These are perfect for relaxing on the square, whether to soak up the sun or read a book.
Bicycle stands
Cars are now only permitted on and around the renovated square. Residents and visitors to Heerlen are being encouraged to cycle or walk.
This will result in an increase in the number of bicycles parked in public spaces. To maintain order, bicycle racks have been installed. The bicycle racks facilitate parking around the square, for example for visitors to the theatre. Simply park your bicycle against the rack and secure it with a chain lock.
Wall top seats as a ‘new’ solution
We are increasingly seeing seating on walls as a ‘new’ solution in public spaces. The concept is simple: we take a low wall or concrete kerb and fit a wooden seat onto it. This can be implemented quickly and often cost-effectively, whilst at the same time addressing the cold, uninviting feel of the outdoor space.
This project in Heerlen is a fine example of this. New kerbs were used for this project in Heerlen, but Grijsen also makes it possible to install seating on existing walls, quays and steps. Want to learn more about the possibilities? We’d be happy to tell you more
