There’s something magical about design that’s inspired by nature. We’re always searching for beautiful design with beautiful ethics — The Sea Organ in Croatia’s coolest city, Zadar, is exactly that a mesmerising architectural installation by Nikola Bašić with help of Dalmatian stone carvers.
What is the Sea Organ
Set within the perforated stone stairs that descend into the sea is a system of pipes and whistles that exudes wistful sighs when the movement of the sea pushes air through it. The effect is hypnotic, the mellifluous tones increasing in volume when a boat or ferry passes by. You can swim from the steps off the promenade while listening to the sounds.
This is a superb spot to peacefully watch the sun go down to the mesmerising tones of Zadar's most popular attraction.
There are only two others that exist in the world – the wave organ in San Francisco and the High Tide Organ of Blackpool in England
35 underwater pipes stretch across 70 metres
Swallowing air from the waves to create hauntingly peaceful music all day long, as you sit and watch the sun melt into the sea. I thought it sounded maybe a little like whale sounds. It’s so simple, so clever, and seems to bring endless joy to everyone who visits, perfect for anyone who wants to chill out.
Carved into the steps of the seafront promenade, 35 organ pipes catch the sounds of waves entering and escaping the hollowed out holes, producing a unique soundtrack exclusive to Zadar. The sounds played by the waves’ movement is the result of the different lengths and sizes of the organ pipes. Chiselled into 7 steps, 7 chords of 5 tones can be heard from this installation, all changing as you make your way down the promenade.
When the tides are calm with a gentle lull, the sounds are more peaceful and harmonious, much like a repetitive melody. It’s tone resembles a hollowed sound much like blowing the top of a glass bottle. As you can imagine, when the tides shift and the waves become more powerful, a lively and boisterous sound gets emitted from the strength - you can easily become hypnotised by its changing tune!
Put the sound on to hear what these organs sound like for yourself.
Listening to that, watching the crashing waves and one of the most beautiful sunsets whilst people sit and meet others, that's a happy place right there. I love this — and there’s an almost festival vibe too. See the Instagram post here, with the sound on - click here.
Designed by Nikola Bašić
Commissioned in 2005 by architect Nikola Bašić with expert Dalmatian stone carvers, the Sea Organ of Croatia was created to connect the locals back to the Adriatic. Zadar’s promenade was heavily damaged due to World War II and left behind a collection of concrete and metal ruins which has now been reclaimed as a site to sit and listen to the harmony of the ocean.
More beautiful design with beautiful ethics
We’ll keep sharing more beautifully designed pieces that spark joy and celebrate thoughtful design. That's at the heart of everything we do at Sabina Motasem 🌊✨
This is what beautiful design should be all about. Bringing joy and making you feel good.
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