Together strong urban design

While city dwellers are known for their free spirit, public spaces are often designed to normalize behavior. As a result, there are few opportunities for personal or shared expression. However, “Together Strong Urban Design” is the result of a design-driven research project aimed at creating a public space that encourages urban creativity!

The first challenge: As the manager of public space, it is not surprising that a government seeks to avoid unpredictability. Unpredictability can be dangerous for bystanders or the creative party itself, and the responsibility lies with them. This is a social and legal situation that cannot be easily changed! Therefore, this playground is not officially in the public space; it is generally accessible private land leased by the government. In practice, however, it is a more genuine form of public space.

In this public space, participants should be able to realize projects, whether they are construction projects or events. To facilitate this, someone is needed to guide these activities properly. This role is filled by a curator who can be approached with a plan and who informs you of the possibilities and requirements. It must remain safe and fun. To keep it lively, the curator also plays a directing role, introducing themes or making open calls. The temporary role of curator is determined through a nomination/election process.

An empty square can provide ample space for urban creativity, but the downside is that one project can fill a single space, limiting creativity. In this project, however, small unfinished buildings are arranged to create multiple smaller frameworks for various projects.

The design of these buildings is unique, challenging city dwellers to think creatively. For example, installing a floor might not align with the door on the other side. These challenges can be solved but require creativity. Each building is slightly different, presenting its own unique challenges, acting as a three-dimensional puzzle with some pieces missing.

These creative additions by city dwellers are always temporary. Therefore, the project will change completely with each curator and for each generation. The basic structures, however, are made of prefabricated concrete elements that can last for hundreds of years. This way, a creative piece of public space is preserved, reflecting the spirit of the times whether you visit in 2, 20, or 200 years!