vibrant circular hubs emerge from playful park landscape conceived by alberto menozzi

Pointillisme Turns Social Distancing Circles into Fun Public Spaces

Pointillsime by architect Alberto Menozzi is a flexible design method inspired by the circular markings used in parks during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure social distancing. The project reinterprets these circles, originally symbols of isolation, into spaces for communal gathering. It employs a grid system based on 2.5-meter diameter circles, arranged in a 3×3 matrix, with each zone designated for specific functions such as study, relaxation, dining, play, and performance. These zones are organized from quietest to loudest in a sequence that defines the layout of the space.

To introduce variety and adaptability, the design method applies ‘deformers,’ techniques like distortion, flattening, extrusion, sinking, and lifting. This creates a dynamic landscape, allowing each area to offer a unique spatial experience. The method also incorporates color to enhance visual appeal and assist in navigation, further emphasizing the playfulness of the environment.

all images courtesy of Alberto Menozzi

Alberto Menozzi deforms circles to create a dynamic landscape

Through Pointillisme, architect Alberto Menozzi looks back at the ways public spaces were reshaped during the pandemic and offers a forward-looking solution. By turning a functional response into a creative intervention, it demonstrates how open spaces can be transformed into places of interaction and connection. The design maintains the original grid structure but enriches it with layers of complexity and surprise, encouraging new social uses of urban areas.

Rather than a singular installation, Pointillisme is conceived as a replicable system, adaptable to different urban contexts. The approach enhances public spaces by creating areas for gathering and interaction while maintaining a distinct visual identity. It reflects on the possibilities that can emerge from limitations, reimagining urban spaces as flexible environments that respond to both social needs and aesthetic considerations.

Pointillisme by Alberto Menozzi transforms pandemic-era distancing circles into communal gathering spaces

Pointillisme reimagines public spaces through a 3×3 matrix of circular zones for various activities

functional zones range from study, relaxation, and food, to play and entertainment, ordered by activity level

a grid of 2.5-meter diameter circles defines functional zones, organized from study to performance

color is used to enhance visual appeal and simplify navigation within the Pointillisme layout

different ‘deformers’ increase the heterogeneity of the space, making each area of the circle unique

the modular design creates a layered landscape, allowing for new possibilities in public space interaction

Pointillisme is a replicable system that can be adapted to different urban contexts, enhancing public spaces

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twenty-five different landscapes born from the interaction between five deformative actions and five functions

starting from a 2,5 m diameter circles' grid, different patches are defined and activated with five main functions

a typical flat landscape transforms to a 3D playful carpet, where activities and nature are combined together

project info:

name: Poitillisme
architect: Alberto Menozzi Architect

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom