Fun and Fanciful Eco-Park Sprouts Up In Amsterdam Schipol Airport

Waiting to get on a plane can be a stressing and wearisome situation --particularly if there are delays or bad weather. With the idea of trying to ease this strife, Amsterdam Schipol Airport just opened their brand new <a title="New Mixed Reality Eco Airport Park Arrives At Amsterdam Schipol " href="http://www.schiphol.nl/Reizigers/OpSchiphol/SchipholAirportPark.htm" target="_blank">Airport Park</a>, a park-themed area for travelers to relax, work, eat or simply sit around enjoying some fresh-air before departure. Built by Design Academy of Eindhoven graduate <a title="New Mixed Reality Eco Airport Park Arrives At Amsterdam Schipol " href="http://www.mauricementjens.com/" target="_blank">Maurice Mentjens</a>, with the help of non-profit <a title="New Mixed Reality Eco Airport Park Arrives At Amsterdam Schipol " href="http://www.natuurcollege.nl/" target="_blank">NatuurCollege</a>, the design uses a technology called “mixed reality” to give way to a curious park that combines hospitality and sustainability in one inspirational space.

Officially opened with a picnic-themed party early last month, Airport Park offers a unique place in the world for everyone to enjoy. Located before passport control within Lounge 1, it features a sitting space, food outlets, sustainable technology services and an outside terrace.

The feeling of being in a park was recreated using a “mixed reality” technology where images of famous parks from around the world are displayed on the walls.

Airport Park was created for kids and adults. An open space with different areas dedicated to work, play and shopping have been design to ensure fun for all, and commitments completed. A gorgeous 130-year-old tree at the entrance points out at everything the park has to offer. The tree was given a second chance after being relocated at the airport because it was threatened at its original location.

At Airport Park travellers can relax under a tree, connect to the Internet or enjoy a healthy snack on a wooden picnic table. Trees seem to grow above the ceiling and even a row of lounging chairs throwback to foliage.

At the Park Café passengers can enjoy fresh juices, fair trade coffee, organic sandwiches and other delicious treats.

A seating space overlooking the busy Dutch airport and featuring long wooden tables with emerging fake trees brings a bit of nature inside.

A lush green outdoors area with real trees and greenery, wooden tables and seats covered by ivy, is another option for having a snack or spending some all fresco time watching planes come and go.

The Airport Park at Amsterdam Schipol is one of the first examples of its kind.