The use of rainwater

IMPLUVIUM: COLLECTING RAINWATER
For CALL#1 the question was to find solutions for rainwater in the city. Rotterdam-based artist group Observatorium presented an impluvium: a conceptual model which collects rainwater via sloping roofs into a central reservoir. When placed in a home, an impluvium provides water for cooking, washing, bathing, or playing. [more info] In all its simplicity, the impluvium demonstrates what rainwater can add to a city: silence, relaxation, contemplation, and a meeting place. A place to enjoy water, and to use it in all sorts of different ways. The impluvium is a building model that dates from Roman times. After 2000 years, the Roman atrium architecture surrounding Venlo is given a sequel. As part of a block of houses or in the shape of a gallery surrounding a square, an impluvium can create a true city oasis.