Two hopscotch tracks, a speedometer, and planters filled with photos and stories from local residents: Carnisse Poort in Beweging (Carnisse Poort in Motion) has been officially opened. The initiative brings new vibrancy to the area, making it a more pleasant place for both residents and visitors. This aligns with the ambition the Urban Leisure & Tourism Lab of Inholland University of Applied Sciences has been working on in Rotterdam South for the past five years.
“When I first saw the hopscotch tracks, I didn’t even dare to step on them. Even though that’s exactly what they’re meant for!” laughs graphic designer Laura Aranda Morales. She’s incredibly proud of her design. “When I look at it, I think: yes! Every word has been carefully chosen to reflect the neighborhood. The design process was like a puzzle, combining all the elements—what words to use, which colors, and how to make it playful. The 3D effect is my signature.”
Showcasing the strength of the neighborhood
Laura was of course present at the opening, just like Houcem Bellakoud and Jeanthalou Haynes (center in the photo) from Unity in Diversity—a Rotterdam-based platform that uses art, culture, and participation to connect people and showcase the strength of the community. They developed the entire creative concept for Carnisse Poort in Beweging in collaboration with Laura.
‘Art’ in the neighborhood
Also present was Karin Herweijer (left in the photo), who conducted her graduation research on ‘art in the neighborhood’ with the Urban Leisure & Tourism Lab Rotterdam. She studied how art can create connection within a community, speaking to about thirty local residents while painting the façade of the old ABN Amro building next to Zuidplein, where the Inholland lab is located.
For all ages
“Residents told me that recognition and color are important, and that it should really reflect Rotterdam South. That led me to the idea of using planters with both photos and stories as connectors in the neighborhood. It’s the people who shape the neighborhood—everyone in Rotterdam South has a role to play. Alongside the hopscotch tracks, the speedometer, and wildflowers, the result is a cheerful square that is full of life—and it’s for all ages.”
A healthy neighborhood in the broadest sense
Karin’s idea for the planters ‘planted the seed’ for what would later become the hopscotch tracks and speedometer. Following Mi Lobi Zuid (the mural on the former ABN Amro building), De Carnisse Poort is Inholland’s second intervention in healthy placemaking—creating a healthy neighborhood in the broadest sense. The project is part of a wider effort to improve the attractiveness, livability, and safety in and around the Hart van Zuid area. It’s a great example of how the lab operates: making a big impact through small interventions by students and researchers, together with the local network.
This is done in collaboration with residents, the Municipality of Rotterdam, Stichting Zie Hart van Zuid, Urban Leisure & Tourism Lab Rotterdam, and other local partners. Specifically for the Healthy Placemaking project, the consortium includes: Hotelschool The Hague, HZ University of Applied Sciences, Zuidplein Shopping Center, Sportbedrijf Rotterdam, Theater Zuidplein, Rotterdam Ahoy, and Inholland University of Applied Sciences.
Images: Vivïenne Magalië
