LOOPS – Changing Intensities

LOOPS youth hang-out and skate area has been developed for the school youth club and oldest students, aged 13-15, at a public school north of Aarhus. The layout includes a large undulating surface with multiple uses, interconnected in infinity loops that incorporate parkour, basketball, table tennis, skateboarding, and seating areas for small groups. This design makes it pleasant and welcoming for students to sit alone or in groups. All furniture is custom-designed to support gender equality and physical activity along with relaxed use. The furniture is strategically placed both centrally and around the perimeter to delineate different functions. The hang-out and skate area is located just outside the windows, making it visible and inviting for students to use. Its colorful design and undulating surfaces foster curiosity and attract users. The area is ideal for activities such as skating and parkour, and it also provides a great backdrop for creating short dance videos. We hosted several workshops with students, educators, and teachers to ensure that the area was designed to engage and inspire the youngsters. From the outset, it was crucial that activities could be enjoyed in various ways: students can participate as observers or performers and roles can change during the play. Research shows that observing is as important as physical engagement in play activities. The project supports youths’ desire for more physical activities, promoting greater well-being and social interaction. Whether watching a basketball game or performing moves with a basketball, students will feel stimulated and encouraged to participate. Our goal is to cultivate curiosity and create spaces where students can explore and feel part of a community. Open to the public all year around. Project Data Landscape Architecture: MBYland Project location: Virupvej 75, 8530 Hjortshøj, Denmark Client: Virupskolen Landscape Architect/Designer: Mette Bruun Yde Project team: Gitte Hansen, Bodil Veibaek, Jakob Ørum & Kristian Mortensen Photo credits: Jan Jul Søndergaard Drone photo: Jan Jul Søndergaard Technical designers involved in the project: Park & Landskab Manufacturer of urban equipment: Park & Landskab Size: 1. 000 sqm Year completed: 2023