SILVER SURFER

In order to create space - real and creative - our design deals with overarching themes of illumination, play and qualification. Applied to the entrances and subway at Ebertplatz, the mirroring of surfaces, walls or even an escalator converted into a slide can set new accents and expand spaces both horizontally and vertically. Sunlight illuminates even darker corners without crowding the already cluttered street space. In addition to new visual experiences, the mirror also offers an opportunity for self-reflection. It sends a message to the flâneur that you are part of Ebertplatz, you are part of the city.

Silver Surfer" was realised at the staircase leading from the Eigelsteintor towards the Kunstpassage and the centre of the square with the steel water kinetic sculpture located there, which was conceived as a "water playground" and serves as a point of reference in terms of content and design. This means that the "Silver Surfer" also aims to create a connection to Wolfgang Göddertz's fountain artwork through the analogy in material and the playful possibility of use.

The concept entitled "Silver Surfer", the central element of which is the transformation of a defective escalator into a slide, was submitted as one of 53 designs in response to the public tender "New entrances to Ebertplatz" and was selected by the relevant jury in 2018. The project idea, concept and design came from ON/OFF and was professionally implemented by the company Eiden & Wagner from Bitburg, which specialises in urban sports. The municipal department for children, youth and family was also involved and provided the ideas. The tender was organised by the Department of Culture.

CREDITS
Position - Co Founder at ON/OFF
Tasks - Concept + Design
Team - Anika Neubauer, Berk Asal, Michael Maginness (ON/OFF)
Text - Unser Ebertplatz e.V.
Photography - Daniel Dormann, Helle Habenicht
Videography - Emmerich Jacobs aka embwoi, Jo Zenk aka jo.zenk

for the City of Cologne | Germany