No more dirty, dark tunnel, but a complete experience. Starting March 21, those walking or cycling through the tunnel on Boompjeskade will find themselves in a living pinball machine.
This Tunnel of Spark is the first step in the approach of the so-called Rondje Bruggen. You will see projections on the walls, inspired by a pinball machine, with a yellow ball bouncing back and forth. You will also hear three stories about themes that fit the tunnel, told with sound.
Involved Residents
The municipality wanted to make the dark tunnel a safer place for pedestrians and cyclists, where you would like to be and experience something. The social design agency Arttenders was commissioned to make this public space more attractive. They did this together with involved residents and entrepreneurs from the neighborhood.
One of the tunnel users is Yke, a resident of Noordereiland and a teacher at the Willem de Kooning Academy: I enjoyed thinking about how we could transform that shady and raw part of the city into something else with love and attention.
Open Call
Subsequently, Arttenders called on artists, designers, and creative makers to submit their portfolios and to tell what connection they have with the area. There were 57 submissions, and Meike Knoors immediately stood out. She was added to the Arttenders design team and came up with the idea of a pinball machine. Knoors: A place that surprises you and turns you on, thats what I wanted for the tunnel.
Rondje Bruggen
The Rondje Bruggen is a popular walking and running route over the Willemsbrug, Noordereiland, Kop van Zuid, Erasmusbrug, and Boompjeskade. In the coming years, the route will become greener with more space and attention for playing, meeting, and relaxing.
The potential of this area is great to develop it into a river park. A green place with a view of the Nieuwe Maas. Where you can meet friends or new people. Where you can chill on a bench and have something to eat or drink in the open air - or just take a walk.
Editors note: At the time of publication, there are no photos of the light installation in the tunnel yet. It will be unveiled and officially put into use on Thursday, March 20 in the evening. Check the Instagram account of the Municipality of Rotterdam (@gemeenterotterdam) for images of the launch.