A Masterpiece of Atmospheric Design
The Wasserkrater, created for the 2000 State Garden Show in Bad Oeynhausen/Löhne, invites visitors on an extraordinary journey into the world of underground water. Inspired by the brine springs of this historic spa town, this interdisciplinary structure brings the region’s unique character to life in a striking way. The goal was to create a lasting memory that would leave a deep impression on visitors’ senses.
The Experience of Depth
Step by step, visitors immerse themselves in the mysterious world of deep water and encounter the element in all its facets—from its quiet presence to its raw power. The highlight of this journey is the hidden fountain chamber, over 20 meters below ground. Here, in a fraction of a second, over six metric tons of water shoot skyward, forming fountains up to 30 meters high—a spectacular spectacle staged with Baroque opulence. Visitors descend into this impressive depth alongside Europe’s tallest fountains and witness an experience that is unique in the world.
The Interaction of Water, Space, and Sound
A Magical Interplay
The Water Crater is more than just a structure—it is an interactive, magical space. The water dictates the action: It remains in silent suspense or unleashes its power in overwhelming eruptions. Visitors become active participants in this spectacle, which is supported by perfectly orchestrated sound design. The water reacts to the sound, and the sound reacts to the water—a symbiotic connection that makes every moment unique.
A living space made of earth, stone, light, and sound
In the heart of the “Park of Underground Water”
, centrally located within the landscape of the Garden Show, the water crater blends harmoniously into the rolling topography. Surrounded by the wild service trees of the sunken garden, the structure merges with its surroundings over time. The materials used—stone, steel, and earth—age and develop their own patina, while mosses and plants seem to integrate naturally into the structure.
A Presentation of the Magical Water
The water crater was created in collaboration with leading experts:
- Agence Ter Paris (Landscape Architects)
- Axel Buether (Artistic Director & Perceptual Psychology)
- Maurus Ronner (Composition)
- Manfred Krauss (Media Technology)
- Heike Krauss (Director)
This interdisciplinary collaboration created a landscape design that, through its fusion of nature, architecture, and media art, stands as a timeless example of the design of atmospheric spaces.
The Wasserkrater has become a place that inspires, fascinates, and deeply moves visitors—an experience for the senses that will remain unforgettable.
Response
Tagesschau report during the completion of the project by WDR
January 20, 2000, “Dark Rumbling from the Depths” (Interview on the Progress of Work on the Wasserkrater) Neue Westfälische Zeitung
20.01.2000 “Script for the underwater world” (Interview on the status of work on the water crater, Westfalenblatt
March 9, 2000, “One of Europe’s Largest Fountains” (article with photo), Westfalenblatt
11.03.2000 “Everyone gets wet here” (article with picture) Soester Anzeiger
March 12, 2000: Live radio broadcast from the International Tourism Exchange (ITB) in Berlin – Interview about the arch+mind firm profile / “Wasserkrater” project
14.04.2000 “Space of sound, water and light” (article and picture), www.baunetz.de
April 15, 2000, WDR Television – Live broadcast of the opening ceremony
17.04.2000 “20,000 came on the first weekend” (article and picture), Westfalen-Blatt “No shower for Mr. Clement”
03/2000 “Wasserkrater Landesgartenschau Bad Oeynhausen/Löhne” (interview and report) ARD/WDR television
