For this research, the focus has been on exploring the relationship between street culture, public space and public architecture, with the aim of challenging negative perceptions towards this culture and fostering the integration of diverse communities within urban environments. The project begins by defining public space as accessible areas for the general public that functions as the heartbeat of the city. It is accessible, inclusive, multifunctional and has a focus on social interactions. A distinction can be made in the difference of perception of public space by different groups of people. A notable difference is the one between the different activities of adults and children. Where children have a more playfull and creative approach that seems to stop at a certain age. For some subcultures this perception is maintained, like parkour, skateboarding, street art etc. They engage with public spaces in unique and unconventional ways. They can be grouped under a larger subculture; streetculture. The significance of this culture lies in creating vibrant and inclusive cities, community engagement, youth empowerment, cultural expression, and health benefits. However, street culture often faces unjust criticism and negative stereotypes, such as vandalism, violence, nuisance etc. Although these are issues, they are a stereotype and generalization of the culture in which the ones causing harm are seen as the majority of the culture, which is not the case, nor are they values the culture represents. To address this issue, the project proposes the need for interactions and dialogue between different communities, aiming to bridge the gap and promote mutual understanding.
To do this, these 2 worlds have to come together in one place, meaning the building has to be both architecture and public space. This public condenser will then serve as catalyst for urban activities and social and cultural interactions. The chosen location for this project is Friedrichshain in Berlin, a neighborhood rich in street culture and providing an ideal context for the integration of diverse communities. The project proposes a hybrid building as an extension of the cultural Wriezener Park, into a hybrid building that combines various functions related to street culture located inside the park
The design concept revolves around a zigzag pattern that connects different activities and creates meandering courtyards, encouraging social interactions and slowing down pedestrian movement. By incorporating oblique surfaces and varying angles into the building design, the aim is to provide different uses and inspire creativity and exploration. The integration of complementary programs derived from the existing activities in the Wriezenerpark, such as an experimental exhibition space, a skatebowl, a greenhouse and a library, further strengthens and expands the street culture communities within the space.
To further increase social interactions, the aim has been to avoid the use of corridors and create as much spaces without relying on enclosing them trough walls, doors, windows and roofs. A glulam portal structure, structure the zigzag pattern and due to its high alternation creates space, without enclosing it. This allows for a mor permeable plan in which the circulation space becomes habitable and the levels are open. The 1st floor is kept loose from the glulam structure as much as possible to also make vertical connections with the secretions becoming a social element through bookshelves and workspaces.
Ultimately, the ambitions were to improve social interactions so these different communities can expand and learn from one another, increase complexity to make people stop, observe and interact, challenge traditional notions of architecture and landscape, and promote the integration of street culture within public spaces and architecture. By embracing street culture and designing inclusive and dynamic public spaces, cities can reap the benefits of vibrant communities, enhanced safety, cultural expressions, physical activity, and improved mental well-being.