Imaginary Cities

imaginary cities imaginary cities imaginary cities imaginary cities

//Creativity and Means of Expression // October 2023//

SMART AND RESILIENT CITIES // DEPARTMENT OF BUILT AND URBAN ENVIRONMENT// JUNIA-HEI

Editor's Note: This text is created during the Creativity and Means of Expression module at the Junia – HEI, Smart and Resilient Cities Program in September/October 2023.

The story of Ozuluk La prochaine étape se fit marquer par unécriteau plutôt original : Ozuluk La Prairies'étendait à perte de vue. En réalité, c'était uneforêt plus qu'une prairie. Les arbres montaient sihaut qu'on en voyait pas le bout. Maisétonnamment, en navigant parmis eux, le soleil transperçait ceux ci et la prairie était éclairée comme en pleine journée, même au crépuscule.

Les habitants de la Prairie, quant à eux, vivent cachés dans ces arbres si haut perchés, entre les feuilles et les branches ou dans les troncs. Ils descendent par comme des ascenceurs pourremonter à d'autres arbres pour se ravitailler etre trouver les citoyens.

En me promenant, je vis quelques nuages lointains. C'est à ce moment-là que j'ai réalisé la hauteur des arbres. Ceux-ci con�nuaient degrimper au delà des nuages.

Certains s'arrêtaient juste à leur hauteur et, plus les nuages se rapprochaient, plus la forêt se transformait en simples troncs qui disparaissaient dans le ciel.

On ne penserait pas à une ville en entrant dans la Prairie. C'est d'ailleurs seulement parce que j'ai vul'écriteau en arrivant que j'en ai pris conscience.

The next stage was marked by a rather originalsign: Ozuluk. The Meadow stretched as far as the eye could see. In reality, it was more forest than meadow. The trees rose so high that you couldn't see the end of them. But surprisingly, as I sailed through them, the sun shone through them and the meadow was lit up like the middle of the day, even at dusk.

As for the inhabitants of the Prairie, they live hidden in these high trees, between the leaves and branches or in the trunks. They descend inelevators and then ascend to other trees to refuel and find their fellow citizens.

As I strolled along, I saw a few distant clouds. It was then that I realized how tall the trees were.They continued to climb beyond the clouds. Some stopped just short of them, and the closer the clouds got, the more the forest turned into mere trunks that disappeared into the sky.

You wouldn't think of a city if you entered the Prairie. In fact, it was only when I saw the sign on the way in that I realized it.

The story of Kopeka

You enter the city of Kopeka on a fast-paced vehicle. It is hardly accessible any other way. At this speed you would not believe all you can see. Your body’s instinct not to get sick leads your gaze upward. Above you, the sky is barely visible. Between you and the clouds, is a jungle of giant brown blocks. The roofs and construction polls form the forest of copper wires pointing to the sun. The face of the buildings is covered with colourful eye-catching signs. Everything and anything you could wish for is there, and yet, you can try your best, no one ever finds what they are actually looking for.

Step your foot out of your vehicle before reaching the city, and you will be out of the loop forever. From the ground level, you realise the distance between the humongous brown buildings that make the city. Here you are an ant in a desolate land of discarded things, places and people.

You are cityless, surviving off of what falls from above, desperately looking up, to avoid seeing the tall menacing ocean of trees surrounding the feet of Kopeka.

The story of Aerithralis In the heart of the ethereal skies, nestled atop a billowing island of clouds, there lies a city unlike any other, a manifestation of dreams and boundless imagination. This city, known to those who dare to venture to its lofty heights as "Aerithralis," embodies the very essence of harmonious coexistence with nature, where lush greenery interweaves seamlessly with the delicate, cloud-kissed architecture.

As you approach Aerithralis, you'll notice that the buildings are like small, ancient cottages that appear to have grown organically from the cloud-strewn landscape. Their whitewashed walls and thatched roofs give them an ageless, timeless quality, as if they have been here since the dawn of time. Each abode is adorned with hanging gardens, cascading vines, and colorful blossoms, creating a tapestry of vibrant life that dances with the wind.

At the heart of Aerithralis, four magnificent temples rise gracefully above the cityscape, each a testament to the elements that shape the world.

The Temple of Water, adorned with cascading waterfalls and shimmering pools, seems to float serenely on the clouds, evoking the calming essence of flowing streams and gentle rains.

The Temple of Fire, with its walls adorned in fiery hues of red and orange, stands as a beacon of warmth and vitality, its flickering torches illuminating the night sky, symbolizing the transformative power of flame.

The Temple of Wind, a soaring structure crowned with intricate spires that seem to sway with the breeze, captures the essence of the ever-changing winds that carry whispers of secrets across the skies.

Lastly, the Temple of Earth, its foundations embedded deep within the clouds, pays homage to the solidity and stability of the earth, with terraced gardens cascading down its sides, celebrating the rich soil and flora that thrive within this celestial realm.

In Aerithralis, the boundaries between the elements blur and blend, creating a city where nature and civilization coexist in perfect harmony. Here, the residents are attuned to the rhythms of the wind, the dance of the flames, the soothing flow of water, and the grounding embrace of the earth.

They live in unity with the elements, drawing strength and wisdom from their surroundings. Aerithralis is not merely a city but a living testament to the human spirit's ability to create beauty and harmony, even in the most fantastical of realms. It stands as a beacon of imagination and a reminder that, in our dreams, we can shape worlds as ethereal and breathtaking as the city in the sky itself.

The story of Silvae Lucis Imagine a city where the forest and buildings are one. The skyscrapers are the tree’s and in their lush crowns the people live. High-up people meet, work and play.

Stairs, ladders, and vines can move one up or down the building. Down on the forest ground, a thick moss makes the paths. And where no moss exists, people carve out more trails in the dirt. In this city, people seem primitive compared to others, where they move so fast and go so far. But for the ones who lived amongst these inhabitants know that the richness of life is not being the fastest but being the happiest in life. In Silvae Lucis there is room for growth, blooming and adapting. But also, for rot and death, for it is a part of life. This secluded forest of lights truly is a wonder to behold for those who can find it.

The story of Coriloma In the heart of Coriloma, an ever-changing city, where time appears to dance with kaleidoscopic fervor, lies the magnificent Central Square. It is a tapestry of vibrant hues, each building adorned in a different, lively shade, creating an exuberant patchwork that stretches to the horizon. The square itself is a spacious hub, a medley of life and culture.

At its core, a resplendent fountain takes center stage, casting a gentle, prismatic spray into the air. Its waters glisten like a treasure trove of secrets, refracting the sunlight into a symphony of colors that paint the surrounding facades with a shimmering, ever-shifting palette. The sound of splashing water is a soothing backdrop to the ceaseless whirlwind of activity.

The city's topography mirrors the chaos and harmony of existence itself. It climbs upward, ascending a gentle slope, as if echoing the struggles and triumphs of its inhabitants. From any vantage point, you can glimpse the marvelous view that the city offers, a vision of dreams and aspirations stretching out to meet the heavens.

Nestled along the incline, a charming park unfurls with grace, a respite from the ceaseless bustle of the city's core. Beneath the verdant canopy of trees, you'll find an assortment of picnic tables, each a little island of tranquility. Here, residents and visitors alike gather to partake in the simple pleasure of a shared meal, their laughter and chatter harmonizing with the symphony of the city.

In this metropolis of endless change, the city on the slope, the Central Square, the fountain, and the park create a vivid tableau of colors, dreams, and the ceaseless vitality of human life, a living testament to the boundless imagination of those who dwell within its borders.

The story of Ferizan Ferizan, woven by dreams, slowly rises in the darkness of the night. Constructed from the fragile memories of sleepless eyes, this place gets lost in a timeless spiral. Its streets become a wild dance of vibrant colors and dazzling neon lights, while the corners hide the melancholic memories of the past.

The city is a reflection of the creative power of dreams. Its buildings defy the rules of gravity, soaring through the sky as if flying, while others descend deep underground, transforming into doors that lead to mysterious worlds within subterranean labyrinths.

Ferries glide on the seas of limitless freedom, heading towards the oceans of dreams. Each harbor promises a new adventure and discovery. The city's inhabitants weave their lives with dreams and spend their days following the stars of their nights.

The markets of Ferizan are filled with dazzling colors and exotic scents. Vendors display products that seem to have sprung from dreams on their stalls. Here, everything is possible; you can catch your dreams and turn them into reality.

Every evening, a spectacle unfolds in the city's squares. Music and dance transcend the everyday lives of people. The city reminds that life is a dream and invites people to rediscover their own realities.

Ferizan can be a dream city for everyone. This place knows no boundaries and challenges the limits of your imagination. Getting lost in this city woven by dreams means going beyond reality.

The story of Reflectopolis Nestled in a hidden valley, Reflectopolis is a city like no other, where the boundaries between reality and reflection blur into a mesmerizing dance. It is a city entirely constructed of mirrors, an architectural masterpiece that plays tricks on the senses and challenges the very essence of perception.

As you approach Reflectopolis, you see the city shimmering on the horizon, appearing as if it's floating in a crystal-clear lake. But there is no lake. What you see is a perfectly reflective surface beneath the city, creating the illusion of a watery mirror world. The city seems to hang suspended between the sky and this illusory lake, casting a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes upon its surface.

The buildings of Reflectopolis are made entirely of mirrored glass, their forms blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The cityscape changes with the time of day, as sunlight dances on the facades, reflecting and refracting in countless ways. At night, Reflectopolis transforms into a celestial wonder, with a million stars seemingly trapped within its walls.

The streets of Reflectopolis wind and twist, and at every turn, you are greeted by infinite reflections of yourself and others. It's a city where self-discovery takes on a new meaning, as you confront countless versions of your own image, each one slightly different, each one offering a glimpse into alternate possibilities.

The people of Reflectopolis are known as "Reflectors." They are a diverse and creative community, skilled in the art of illusion and perception. They use mirrors not only for construction but also as tools of communication, projecting images and messages across the city. It's a place where truth and illusion are constantly in flux, and reality is a matter of perspective.

Reflectopolis is a city of festivals and celebrations. The Reflectors have a deep appreciation for the interplay of light and reflection, and they celebrate this with grand displays of light art, laser shows, and holographic performances that leave visitors in awe.

But Reflectopolis is not without its mysteries. There are hidden portals within the city, known only to a select few, that lead to other dimensions of perception and consciousness. Those who dare to explore these portals often return with altered perspectives and newfound wisdom.

To visit Reflectopolis is to enter a world of endless self-discovery, where the line between self and other blurs, and reality itself becomes a shifting reflection. It's a city that challenges your perceptions and invites you to see yourself and the world in a new light.

As you leave Reflectopolis, you carry with you the knowledge that sometimes, what we see in the mirror is just the beginning of a deeper, more complex reflection of our own existence.

The story of Banbo

The city of Banbo is one that has safety built into its very fabric. The citizens look after each other and watch out for one another’s children. There’s a strong sense of belonging and community.

Banbo is made up of 2 settlements diagonally opposite one another depending on your perspective. The two settlements open up and spread wide but if there’s an attack or a sense of insecurity, the two settlements transform into islands still connected but invisible to all except its inhabitants.

.

The story of Besque I am now going to tell you about the city of Besque. Or maybe I should say the two cities of Besque because this place is divided by a wall and both sides would not appreciate being associated with the other. Their floor and their architecture differ radically. The first one was before a dense forest but is now the symbol of industry and metallic buildings. Bright and strong constructions appear at a quick rate as a symbol of this new industrial power. The second one is a green city built with wood over a former metal carrier. Their side is a place of serenity and contrast totally with their noisy neighbour. They both hate each other, for them the other side is ugly and doesn’t deserve to be called Besque. Knowing this you may be wondering why they are considered the same city. It is because each side depends on the other one. For the first Besque, their trees are a waste of space and wood is a totally useless material because it is not as strong and as mouldable as steel, so they throw it on the other side of the wall. For the second Besque, the metal they find on their land is a pain, it looks cold, prevents trees to grow and it makes the floor so hard that they need to build stilt houses, so they throw it to the other side of the wall. You should now understand better, they both use and require the other side’s materials. If one of them was to disappear, the other one would no longer be able to exist. This is Besque.

The story of Chrysóstratos: The Golden City Above the Clouds "Chrysóstratos," a name derived from the Greek words "chrysós" meaning gold and "stratos" meaning cloud.

Hidden in the enigmatic embrace of an unknown location, Chrysóstratos emerges as a mythical metropolis, a shimmering jewel suspended above the ocean's depths. This celestial city is a clandestine sanctuary, accessible only to a select few who have been chosen to ascend its vertiginous heights, their origins a closely guarded secret.

Four colossal tubes, like titanic tendrils, plunge from the fathomless ocean depths and ascend towards the heavens, piercing through layers of clouds. Beneath these veils of mist, the world below remains oblivious to the wonders that await above.

It is as if Chrysóstratos, a city of dreams, remains hidden from the terrestrial realm.

As one ascends these monumental conduits, the world transforms. The dull, mundane blues of the ocean depths give way to the dazzling brilliance of Chrysóstratos.

Its streets are lined with houses of gold and cobalt blue, an architectural marvel that reflects the city's divine aura. Each building, meticulously crafted with the precious metals, shimmers like a fragment of the sun's own radiance.

The city is an amalgamation of ancient Greek and celestial influences. Its streets wind in labyrinthine patterns reminiscent of mythological mazes, evoking a sense of wonder and exploration in those who roam them. Statues of ancient gods and mythical creatures stand sentinel at street corners, their eyes seemingly watching over the chosen inhabitants.

Chrysóstratos is a city suspended between heaven and earth, a place where time dances to its own rhythm. The inhabitants, privileged few, lead lives untouched by the mundane concerns of the world below. Their existence is one of luxury and splendor, where art and culture flourish, and knowledge is treasured above all else.

Beneath the golden awnings and azure domes, secrets older than the city itself are whispered in hallowed halls. It is said that Chrysóstratos holds the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe, hidden away in Temples whose shelves touch the very sky.

At night, Chrysóstratos takes on an otherworldly glow, its golden facades reflecting the moonlight, casting an ethereal aura over the city. Those who dwell within its walls are enveloped in a sense of divinity, as if they have become the gods of their own celestial realm.

Chrysóstratos, the city above the clouds, remains an elusive dream, a paradise suspended in time and space, a testament to the boundless creativity of those who dare to imagine the extraordinary.

The story of Warronia After proceeding for several days through a desertic land, I finally approached the city of Waronia. On my way, I saw many destroyed cities, people starving, destroyed vehicles. A hostile environment.

The city of Waronia is a city of contrasts. Nourishment is rare in this hostile environment of masses of sand. But the people in the city live a luxury life in abundance with every kind of food you can imagine. Because what nobody knows, is that behind the city, there is a lush land with nutrient-rich fields and a river with plenty of water.

When enemies approach the city, the first things they see is the massive city wall with its four towers and the big tower in the center of the city, which is probably the highest building they have ever seen. Every tower has a platform, from which the invaders think they can get attacked from. This makes them feel so small, that the don’t even dare to attack the city.

What nobody knows is, that the city of Waronia doesn’t even have one single soldier, that could defend it. The second secret of the city is, that the city wall doesn’t surround the entire city. It’s a semi-circle, which is completely open to the back side of the city, towards the lush and green land. But the enemies don’t even know that, as they are too scared to approach the city. The inhabitants can leave the city whenever they want, but the just go to the wide and friendly land of the backside of the city. Big farms provide the city with food. People play next to the river. The big tower in the center of the city is actually a restaurant tower, with a different restaurant in every floor and not a defensive building. The only security that the people have, is their dangerous external appearance.

The story of Gastronova

Gastronova is a culinary utopia where the world’s cuisines converge in harmony.

As you stroll down the streets, the aromas of diverse global dishes waft through the air.

In the heart of Gastronova, you find the bustling « International Bazaar, » a vibrant marketplace where vendors from every corner of the globe offer their delectable creations. You can savor French pastries, Japanese sushi, Indian curries, Mexican tacos, and countless other international delicacies, all within a few steps of each other.

Gastronova’s architecture is a fusion of culinary styles. All infrastructures seem like food. There are banana bridges, pizza place, salad landscape, chips buildings and more.

At night, the city comes alive with food-themed art installations, music, and dance performances that celebrate the universal language of food. Gastronova is a place where people from all walks of life come together to celebrate their love for gastronomy.

The story of Tranquilis In the heart of a distant land, there existed a city named Tranquilis, where simplicity was the cornerstone of life. The buildings in Tranquilis were modest, rarely stretching beyond two stories, and were crafted from local materials that echoed the earthy hues of the surroundings. Streets wound gracefully, bordered by serene cottages and workshops, while sunlight painted gentle patterns on the cobblestones below. Tranquilis was more than just a city; it was a sanctuary of peace. Here, the people found happiness in the ordinary – the scent of freshly baked bread, the laughter of children in gardens, and the soft melodies of street musicians at twilight. Life revolved around the beauty of simplicity, and the residents embraced this philosophy in every aspect of their existence. There were no extravagant displays of wealth; instead, the worth of a person was measured by kindness and community bonds. Travelers who stumbled upon Tranquilis found themselves captivated by its serene charm. Many chose to stay, enticed by the city's unique way of life. Tranquilis became a refuge for those weary of the complexities of the world, teaching them the transformative power of simplicity.

In this city of short buildings and simple lives, people discovered that true wealth lay not in material possessions but in the peace that arose from contentment.

Tranquilis stood as a beacon of hope, reminding the world that in the pursuit of less, there was immeasurable beauty and profound peace.

The story of Symphonia Welcome to Symphonia, the city of music and imagination!

As you walk under the see-through Shrimp Bridge, it's like being inside a giant musical instrument. You can hear singers practicing their opera songs overhead while little boats beat a rhythm on the water below.

Follow the sounds to the city's heart, where residential buildings dance with smart ones. On one side, curvy cafes and homes with modern shapes. On the other, futuristic architecture represents the city's smart part.

Keep wandering to find Creative Park, a green escape where youngsters make drones, play music, and dream up amazing ideas.

Symphonia's magic is its melody - part nature, part technology, part art. It's a city that sings its own special song. Can you hear it? Let your imagination play along!

Flora Dans une lointaine contrée où le temps se tisse en mille couleurs, une ville émerge des brumes du rêve, une ville d'une beauté ineffable, composée de quatre tours, chacune façonnée par la délicate main de la nature. Ces tours sont construites non pas de pierre ou de métal, mais de pétales de fleurs, d'une diversité de couleurs et d'espèces qui émerveillent l'âme de tous ceux qui les contemplent.

Ces tours de fleurs ne sont pas des entités isolées, mais elles sont liées entre elles par des ponts de lianes délicates, comme les fils invisibles du destin. Les habitants de cette ville peuvent se déplacer d'une tour à l'autre en empruntant ces lianes, créant un réseau complexe de passages aériens, une danse aérienne entre les pétales et les nuages.

Cette cité florale, dont le nom se murmure à peine, est un lieu où la nature et l'humanité s'unissent en une harmonie parfaite. Chaque tour, chaque pétale, chaque pont tissé dans le ciel raconte une histoire, une histoire qui se fond dans le doux murmure du vent et la douce mélodie de la vie. Dans cette ville, la poésie est la langue maternelle, et chaque pas est une danse, chaque souffle, un poème.

The story of Sportivia In the fantastical city of Sportivia, the frenetic rhythm of daily life is dictated by the cult of sport. The cobbled streets are giant playgrounds, where every step is a pass, and every encounter a match.

At the heart of Sportivia stands the Central Stadium, a colossal structure where the emotions of the inhabitants are measured in athletic exploits. Buildings are constructed in the shape of miniature stadiums, their arched roofs reminiscent of triumphal arches celebrating past victories. Statues of graceful athletes and passionate supporters adorn public squares, immortalizing the competitive spirit that pervades the city.

Sportivia' neighborhoods bear evocative names such as Sprintburg, Ballonaire, and Nautical Arena. Each district is dedicated to a particular sport, creating a dynamic mosaic of athletic activities. Inhabitants, clad in colourful sportswear, move about on bikes, skateboards, or sneakers, constantly engaging in impromptu challenges.

Cafés in Sportivia are arenas for passionate debates on recent performances, sports strategies, and predictions. Menus are scoreboards, and fervent discussions resonate in the air, mingling with the sound of screens continuously broadcasting the latest sporting events.

Every year, Sportivia hosts the Games of Imagination, a competition where physical and mental limits are pushed. Astonishing and inventive challenges, such as cloud racing and rainbow jumping, captivate audiences from around the world.

Sportivia, the city that breathes sports, where every street, every building, and every inhabitant participates in an infinite choreography of movements and competitions. A metropolis that celebrates effort, teamwork, and the perpetual pursuit of physical excellence.

The story of Crecy Funny-cone-shaped of street lamps and staircase buildings describe the city of Crecy.

Chairs made from recycled material, footpaths on the floor indicating the direction act as a game especially for kids. Not forgettng the fountain at the iddle where people can walk around or either sit to admire the view. At the exit of the city, we have mixed colorful butterflies to remid you of how colorful the city of Crecy is.

ANSART ARYEE-ATTA AWAD BERGE HENEGOUWEN BOSCH CHABROLLE CHATEAUNEUF DUTOIT FAZEL FURLAN KASPER LEE OKUL QUARTIER ROY TEGHO KOUGANG TOULEMOND TURC

Lecturers RUIZ BOWEN Ana IKALOVIĆ Vedrana

Jules Julia Naa Adaku Elie Claudia Nico Maxime Emilie Baptiste Firouzeh Nicolas Matheo Richard Steven Eren Agathe Alexandre Cynthia Emma Théophile