Futuristic design chosen to revamp Aberdeen’s Union Terrace Gardens

The jury in the international design competition for the City Garden Project has picked the”Granite Web” - the entry by the award-winning New York studio of Diller Scofidio & Renfro - from the final short list of two designs for the £140 million scheme.

The “Granite Web” features a contemporary designs of a network of pathways over parkland and incorporates plans for an iconic cultural and arts centre and two new public plazas on Union Street and Belmont Street.

The other short listed design - and the most popular choice in a public vote - was “The Winter Garden” an entry by Foster and Partners, the firm led by Lord Foster which has also designed the new Wembley Stadium in London. The Foster entry doubled the size of the gardens, making them twice as large as Trafalgar Square, with an extended glass winter garden running along the middle.

Malcolm Reading, the competition organiser, said:”This is an exciting outcome and a great coup for the city. This ingenious and inspiring design for Aberdeen’s key public space gives the city a new social landscape but one rooted in its extraordinarily rich heritage and natural assets.”

Chairman of the jury, Sir Duncan Rice said: “The Diller Scofidio team had thought long and hard about Aberdeen’s special history and unique needs. Answer by answer, they overwhelmed the jury with their vision and their sensitivity to the whole downtown context. They are flexible and responsive, and the thrilling concept they have offered will continue to adapt and evolve as discussion proceeds. I’m proud that our city has been able to attract a team which combines distinction, creativity and urban experience.”

John Stewart, chairman of the City Garden Project management board, said: “This design will not only transform the Union Terrace gardens site but our whole city. I also believe it will transform the way in which Aberdonians perceive, use and enjoy the city centre.”

He declared: “This could be Aberdeen’s Eden Project, our Guggenheim, and will be a unique space that nowhere else in Europe can offer.”