The space for the memorial uses a language that can be understood by everyone. It delivers emotions through the creation of a space of light and nature designed for the people.
The islands
The different islands connected by bridges will create a peculiar landscape park. The new atoll will be an escape from the city while being within the city. The grassy islands will provide a quite space perfect to accommodate ceremonies or even picnics while the forest central island will create shade and the perfect habitat for birds. The atolls will be made, like Amsterdam, by land reclaimed from water.
Void and fracture
The central island (memorial island) will be a forest cut in two by a stream of water. This cut symbolises the fracture left by this tragedy but the water flowing continuously brings peace and tranquillity. The water will then fall into the circular central void with 2 big waterfalls. In the void there will be a pool collecting the water and around it all the spaces for the memorial (bar, multifunctional room, offices etc). The pool will reflect the sky and through the sound of falling water and the colours of the surrounding forest above the space will take life. Viewers will find a space that celebrates life and remembrance; a space where absence is made visible. The central void will also act as a connecting element that will join the two halves of the forest island. The views can easily access the pool level by a ramp and other stairs and walk around the space.
The new memorial atoll will become a sacred place celebrating the life-affirming power of nature.
