Heart Matters

Heart Matters – A City Good for the Soul, Caring for People, Diverse Activities, Strong Culture

By : OPPORTUS

A city is more than just a physical place or space. It is a place that is enriched with diversity of people and cultures. Throughout history and up to the present ,despite the ongoing presence of communication technologies that keep us linked at all times, the significance of close relationships still holds true. Proximity comes in two forms: physical proximity or operational proximity , where people are physically close to each other, and relational proximity, where people might not be physically close, yet feel emotionally connected and concerned. When these two conditions meet, relationships of care emerge. One could argue that proximity is a precondition of care.

Creating a city that supports and fosters collaborative activities is crucial. The proximity as the outcome thus fosters relationships and a sense of care among the city’s inhabitants. Proximity and care are enhanced through these interactions.

Proximity doesn’t necessarily need to be in terms of physical distance or limited to close individuals. Every part of the city where people reside can provide opportunities for closeness and support in various situations. For instance, public parks allow people living nearby to exercise and get to know each other. Community spaces provide children with areas to play and exercise, and they might even become venues for annual events, strengthening the bonds among community members. In this sense, organising events or exhibitions that link groups of people and promote relationships is an effective way to create meaningful proximity in the city.

Bangkok Design Week 2024 festival will play a pivotal role in fostering closeness among the city’s residents. Designers can present activities and exhibitions that encourage urbanites to interact and share experiences in various formats. Not only a festival where everyone can participate in interesting and enjoyable activities, but also provides an opportunity for people to share new ideas and creativity as the city continues to grow.

1. Promoting urban interactions through design

The Goods Line

ASPECT Studios collaborated with CHROFI to transform an unused railway line into The Goods Line. The project is situated at the heart of Sydney, connecting key urban areas. This revitalised space serves as a “public domain” seamlessly linking important city spaces while promoting community engagement through art, culture, and education.

The novel approach by designers involves the creation of distinct “pavilions” along an elevated railway walkway. These adaptable spaces encourage diverse uses such as cultural activities, relaxation, and learning. By interpreting the history of the new rail corridor and integrating railway-related materials like concrete, steel, and timber, the project not only pays homage to the past but also imparts a fresh identity to the area.

ASPECT and CHROFI undertook design, prototyping, and extensively implemented construction processes. The engagement and aspirations of citizens for public spaces were meticulously considered throughout the process. Concrete panels, lighting installations, plant selection, and even individual stools were precisely designed down to the details. The outcome stands as a representation of a new societal foundation, offering abundant opportunities for encounters, play, and idea exchange within the city.

The goods line from: https://www.aspect-studios.com/projects/the-goods-line

2. Fostering community Interactions

Nantou Old Town Preservation and Regeneration

In early 2016, the design and research team at Urbanus participated in the project to preserve and regenerate Nantou, an area across the legendary city of Xinhui, as a quaint “fishing village.” Indeed, the historical significance of the ancient Nantou town extends back more than 1,700 years. The city’s expansion led to the assimilation of Nantou into the urban fabric, resulting in a complex historical urban form.

Urbanus recognized the importance of historical preservation while concurrently nurturing a vibrant urban community deeply rooted in local culture. Nantou is considered a historical heritage town that has collected nearly two millennia of history. It functions as a repository of cultural heritage and the spatial memory of Xinhui. Nantou has transformed into a central venue for the “2017 Shenzhen-Hong Kong Bi-city Biennale of Urbanism / Architecture” (UABB), aligning the theme of urban intervention with the restoration of the old town.

A significant design element is the “Baode Square,” which once was a small open space in the heart of the old city. Now, it has evolved into a lively activity hub, surrounded by aged buildings and residential structures. It includes a basketball court, previously less used during the scorching daytime. Nevertheless, life here emerges after nightfall, with children playing joyfully and adults congregating. The old metal sheets were replaced, giving way to new structures. The rooftop has been ingeniously designed with an inclined staircase for seating, whether for relaxation, watching sports, or performances. Different buildings are roofed with specially designed fired-clay tiles to define the limits of courtyards and serve as information centres, bookstores, and event spaces, collectively fostering a sense of community among the people.