DRIFT is an innovative temporary floating public space on the River Lagan this August and September. Comissioned by Belfast City Council and designed in collaboration with OGU Architects and sound artist Matilde Meireles, the project invites the people of Belfast to explore the spaces between city and water, and seeks to amplify the multi–sensory experience of being on the Lagan.   

DRIFT aims to challenge the city’s relationship to its waterfront, presenting the river as a vital public space for a growing population. Engaging with the river’s historical significance and cultural identity, the project has embarked on a journey of discovery to map and reveal significant parts of the Lagan. An open call invited people to tell their stories and what is important about the river to them. It will also delve into the potential for more wildlife–friendly urban places to be made available along its edge.  

It is hoped that by sparking people’s curiosity and interest in the Lagan, the project can start a transformative public conversation about the potential of the river to be central to urban well–being in a growing city. Photographs by Elyse Kennedy, Joe Laverty, MMAS and OGU Architects.