Conscious Walk
How can we revitalize a vanished river in the heart of an urban district while raising awareness of the local ecosystem?
At the heart of the Mediterranean, a region subject to scorching summers and rising waters in winter, it has become essential to rethink this site to create a vibrant space adapted to the seasons. For a century, the Eygoutier River in Toulon has gradually faded from memory, with part of its course buried underground to allow for the construction of high-rise buildings between the coast and the river. Present since the Middle Ages and once central to urban life, it has been progressively relegated to oblivion by the inhabitants. The Eygoutier is home to rich biodiversity, where flora and fauna play a crucial role. The Provence reed, widely present along its banks, offers an opportunity to revive an ancient craft: weaving. A three-phase transmission system has been envisioned. The use of this material requires regular maintenance, thus engaging residents in a process of responsibility and awareness of the local ecosystem. This project not only aims to teach in an eco-responsible manner but also seeks to restore the value of Provence reed weaving, combining aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. The creation of a woven footbridge establishes a tangible connection between residents and their environment, encouraging them to recognize the ecological richness of their neighborhood. This simple module, designed to be replicated in different urban spaces, would help generate cooling zones accessible to both residents and visitors. More than just infrastructure, this project fosters a collective reflection on the role of the river in the city, aiming to integrate this shared awareness into the daily lives of its inhabitan.
