Snøhetta
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Urban Blooms
Pop-up urban oasis in Innsbruck's old town

2024–

Landscape Architecture, Architecture

Introduction

Urban Blooms exemplifies Snøhetta’s commitment to activating public spaces and fostering community engagement. Originally, this temporary installation gave new life to Innsbruck´s Kiebachgasse at a time when a building site disrupted the charming idyll of the old town. Initiated by Innsbruck Tourism, the temporary installation was developed and realised in just a few weeks. The project developed from a pop-up installation to enhance public space in the context of the construction site into an experimental initiative at various locations in the city. It creates consumption-free areas and meeting zones in the public space.

Technical details

Typologies
Public Space
Status
Completed
Location
Innsbruck, Austria
Client

Innsbruck Tourismus

Photos by David Kienpointner

The installation features colourful timber modules such as planters with large bushes for shading, a lawn platform for relaxation, and seating blocks. The elements can be combined in many different ways and can be configured into various green islands - with urban climate in summer always being a hot topic in urban areas. They create a welcoming environment for everyone and encourage informal public use offering shady cooling, green seating and lounging areas as well as play facilities.

Photo: © Randall Media Factory / Eduardo Espinosa

Photo: David Kienpointner

All visitors can experience the existing space in a new, colourful and lively way. The temporary intervention helps to raise awareness of public space and the importance of non-commercial areas in the city.

Patrick Lüth Partner and Managing Director Snøhetta Studio Innsbruck

The project showcases the power of collaboration and community participation. Volunteers, locals, and Snøhetta team members came together to transform the street, painting vibrant patterns that include game areas like chess, tic-tac-toe, and a jumping game for children. This addition brings a playful and engaging element to the space.

Photos by © Randall Media Factory / Eduardo Espinosa

The pop-up urban oasis with seating, green spaces and play areas was part of Innsbruck´s Kiebachgasse until the end of the summer 2024. After a stop at Boznerplatz, the installation beautified the Marktplatz for several weeks. Since August 2025, Urban Blooms has been offering a place to relax and socialise on the square in front of the Haus der Musik (House of Music) and the Imperial Palace Innsbruck.

Photos by Christoph Schwaz

Urban Blooms at the Marktplatz in Innsbruck

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