Participating in the community centre from beginning to end

Abstract

This thesis researches the influence of user participation on design. It focusses specifically on user participation in the design of community centres in Rotterdam, 1960-1990. First, a literature investigation has been conducted to establish context and theory on user participation in architecture. Secondly, research on three study cases has been executed; Two similar community centres: De Klimmende Bever and De Larenkamp; and separately Pier 80. The researched focused on three aspects possibly influenced by user participation: functions, floorplan design and aesthetics. This was done by a combination of archival research, research in historical newspapers and analysis.

It was found that during the 60s and 70s, the role of the architect was questioned with the increasing critiques on Modernism. De Carlo was one of the first architects to argue the importance of user participation in design and define different types of participation. Meanwhile, in the Netherlands a similar movement begun. The municipalities in the Netherlands were shifting their focus from growth and scaling to urban renewal. The community centre was a key element in the new and renewed neighbourhoods.

From the case studies, it became clear that user participation and the relation between architect and user can influence the design significantly. The biggest influence was found on the functions of the building. Moreover, aesthetics and floorplan design can also be influenced. Although it must be considered that this is also heavily dependent on the approach of the designer. Municipal architect Bister, who designed De Klimmende Bever and De Larenkamp, took a Modernist approach designing a shell with open floorplan, which could be placed in multiple neighbourhoods or anywhere else. Consequently, the buildings are not unique and adjusted to the surroundings, except for the functions. Pier 80 however, showed how a design can be influenced by a lot of user participation and be adjusted to its surroundings.

The relation between user and architect is always changing and will always change. We, as designers, have to question our role in design to achieve the best results.