Awaiting water

Abstract: There is a limestone quarry on Öland that was active between 1888 and 2019.  Now that Cementa has ceased mining, the quarry is about to be naturally flooded with rainwater and infiltrating groundwater. In 20 years from now, the water level will be 5 meters higher than today.  As a final proposal I present a multifunctional visitor’s center placed on a peninsula that will eventually transform into an island. The quarry is popular amongst birds and the observation tower makes it possible to study them closely. The exhibition hall can show work from Öland’s many artists and the flexible square can host everything from yoga classes to dance nights. A small kiosk sells ice cream and sandwiches. The changing booths, lockers, restrooms and saunas enable you to enjoy this place in every season, protected from the sometimes very rough elements that is Öland’s signature. For each year the water level will rise and create a new experience, even for returning visitors. When the surface has reached its highest point in the 2040’s, the center will appear floating on the water surface and welcome you on a path framed with casted stone walls pushing the water aside.