As an entry to the 2009 edition of the International Garden Competition in Bilbao, Spain, landscape and urban designer Diana Balmori and her studio entered the temporary urban garden project. The proposal is a garden of contrasts, between native and exotic plants, as well as grass and pavement.

“In form, the garden engages the horizontal plaza with the rising vertical plane of the steps and the upright gesture of Eduoardo Chillida’s sculpture,” the project explains. “Like the famous Spanish Steps in Rome, the garden is not only design for visitors to ascend and descend, but for them to linger and just be.”

Here are some more images of the temporary urban garden. Wouldn’t this be the perfect place to meet with a friend? What an excellent way to transform public space from a dull piece of concrete to a fun and green hangout!

To see more entries for the International Garden Competition and the winners of 2011 click here.