Rain Amplifier Installation / Matthijs la Roi Architects

Sint-Arnolduspark was established on the finish of the nineteenth century, after the prevalence of a number of miraculous healings on the location. The therapeutic powers of the location had been attributed to a pure water spring within the park which was made obtainable to the general public by way of the creation of a fountain. This established the park as a pilgrimage vacation spot. The water fountain is considered one of many historic objects that had been constructed within the park, together with Catholic chapels, synthetic grotto constructions, rustic cement bridges, a sequence of ponds, and a cavalry cross. 

The Rain Amplifier finds itself amidst this eclectic amalgamation of follies and water parts. The venture supplies a brand new focus by attracting guests to its performative operate. On the identical time, the rain impact is meant to encourage the customer to replicate on their relationship with rain and the function rain performs in society and nature. In 2020, Might and April have been the driest months in Belgium since 1833. As a predicted impact of local weather change, each moments of utmost drought and excessive precipitation will probably be extra widespread in Belgium within the close to future.

Geometrically the sculpture resembles a half dome with an intricate and expressive decorative inside as a reference to Catholic structure that exists within the park. Throughout the dome, a synthetic rain bathe is produced by way of a community system of hidden interconnected tubes and nozzles. The amplification of the sound of the water is a results of the dome type, making a dynamic soundscape to be skilled in its atmosphere. Cedar is used as cladding due to its excessive water resistant efficiency and the wealthy number of color tones of the totally different timber parts.

Rain Amplifier is a sculpture that gives the house to replicate on rain and our relation to it. It reminds us of its historical-cultural significance and the significance of addressing modern challenges associated to local weather change. It’s a place to rejoice rain by way of the technique of musical or theatrical efficiency.