It builds on extensive territorial research conducted in Luxembourg, where water consistently emerged as a critical resource, essential for sustainable management in the face of demographic growth, climate change, pollution, flooding, and increasing risks of drought.

At a 1:1 scale, WATERforum tests the potential of phytoremediation, exploring how landscapes can filter water from the Alzette. In collaboration with Dr. Silvia Venditti (Uni.lu), specific plants and substrates were selected to target pollutants identified through water analysis. With the support of the Administration de la Gestion de l'Eau, 5 m' of Alzette river water were pumped and filtered, while water quality and plant growth were continuously monitored.

The installation integrates structure, ecology, and technology through a minimal design approach. Conceived as a circular system, it also engages local industry: ArcelorMittal provided a Grey Beam used as the structural backbone, temporarily placed and returned after the LUGA festival.

While a solar pump lifted the water, the beam's inclined position enabled water to percolate slowly through roots and substrate, while UV light ensured final purification.

The pond reflected the image of the city and its historic, austere yet picturesque fortress infrastructure: a symbolic reminder of the effort and commitment required to restore our rivers and safeguard one of our most essential resources

In collaboration with LOLA (nl) and Silvia Venditti (uni.lu)

Images by Ludmilla Cerveny