Creation of the “ephemeral garden” extension

Due to the popular success of Perdtemps Square and following the ideas and proposals for its use put forward by the citizens’ group (comprising citizens and association representatives participating in a related participatory initiative), an extension of the square is being envisioned in the form of a “pop-up garden.” Members of the citizens’ group participated in the creation of the garden and in a collective observation of the new ways this space is being used.

The public was also invited to participate in the installation of a new temporary public garden, designed to last for the duration of spring, as an extension of Perdtemps Square.

One of the main objectives was to test several issues raised by the consortium members:

• A park facing the future park

• Diverse vegetation and natural shade

• Nighttime operations

• Bringing a high-traffic area to life and connecting it to the refreshment stand

• Various uses (relaxation, unwinding, coworking, a space for social interaction and the exchange of items)

• Participatory construction and planting

• A central space accessible to all generations

Plans of the extension (PDF)

Feedback
The quality of the landscaping, the availability of shade, and the complementary relationship between the refreshment stand and the play area were identified as strengths. Based on their observations, however, participants noted that while there is a lot of foot traffic, the space is not being used much, particularly because the layout of the furniture does not encourage social interaction. Furthermore, the connection between the park and the new extension (temporary garden) is not clearly defined.

When did this take place?
The installation was completed in May 2019. The public was invited to three participatory workshops (May 21–23) to help put the finishing touches on the garden, including planting and painting.