Vancouverites have mixed feelings about the city’s latest art installation, but it may be just what they need to relax.

Designed in collaboration by local architect Matthew Soules and AFJD Studio, Pop Rocks turns the 800-block of Robson St. into a pillowy play land and lounge area.

Crews began setting up the oversized beanbags, white umbrellas and patches of fake grass earlier this week, and by Thursday, they were ready for use.

Gregory Johnson from North Vancouver stopped by to test out the new pillow-like forms, which are made from the recycled fabric of the Canada Place sails.

He said he liked the art project, adding that it’s more comfortable than last year’s installation of wavy artificial turf.

But not everyone agrees with him.

“I heard somebody going by saying, ‘What a waste of road space,’” he said.

Shannon Whissell and Rivers Mitchell of Victoria heard similar comments as they took shelter from the sun under one of the umbrellas.

“I heard one guy pass say, ‘This is a waste of space,’” said Mitchell.

However, Whissell said she saw a lot of people enjoying the installation, such as families playing around on the large beanbags.

“I think that things like this that slow people down are a great way to experience art or change the city,” she said.

Karen and Alex Davies, who were visiting from England, said the installation is a great way to bring people together and slow down the bustle of the city.

“If this wasn’t here you’d just keep walking down the road, whereas people are stopping, they’re relaxing, they’re interacting with each other,” she said.

“It’s a bit like an oasis.”