Context and Challenge
Helmich Gabrielsens plass is located in the heart of Stavanger, along the central bay Vågen, an urban space with the need to honor the region’s wartime seafarers during WWII. The rectangular square is framed by historic buildings on three sides while opening towards the sea on the fourth. The square lacked a clear identity, and had the potential for enhancement as a space for reflection, social gathering, and cultural activities – in close contact with the sea. The idea was to create a memorial that integrates history, art, and urban landscape while inviting for use and experience for people of all ages.
Design Strategy and Concept
The project is based on an inseparable integration of two complementary artworks and the design of the square. The whole site tells the story of the seafarers – their longing, absence, and hope.
Solutions and Key Elements
The sitting sculpture, modelled in grey marble: “Out in and of water”, is formed as an abstract lean bow with bow waves that faces Vågen and frames a little shallow water basin with a gently contoured surface. The basin defines the historic shoreline, provides a gentle transition from the road to a calm square and invites to playful activities. An object in cast aluminium, placed on thin stainless steal poles: “Pending Phenomenon: Memory / Afterimage” rises above the rear of the square, forming a light, reflective focal point. The design centers around an open middle area that can be perceived as both void and social gathering space. When raining, the water drops of the Phenomenons roof into a narrow groove, that leads it to the water basin, creating a circuit connected to water as the seafarers element, and a dynamic interaction with weather and seasons.
The artworks interact with the historical paving by undulating paving patterns, and a granite edge guides visitors into the narrative. Two native pine trees are carefully chosen as symbols for Norway, the seafarer’s country of origin and longing. They also balance the square visually and physically.
Outcome and Impact
The square has become a sensory, poetic, and inclusive environment. The water feature and seating sculpture invite to play, reflection, and social interaction. The Pending Phenomenon creates a light, skyward focal point and an intimate space underneath. The project both honors the history of wartime seafarers, strengthens connection to the sea, and reinforces identity. It accommodates contemplation, interpretation, social interaction, and play, while remaining flexible for events. The squares name was also changed into “Krigsseilerplassen” (Square of the wartime seafarers) in 2023.
Process
The project was developed through close collaboration between landscape architects, artist, construction engineers, and landscape gardeners. The process emphasized high quality, safety, and cohesive experience, respecting history and sensory engagement.
Data
Landscape Architecture: Atsite
Photo credits: Jone Kvie, ATSITE, Markus Johanson
Artist: Jone Kvie
