Architects' role (and responsibility) extends beyond mere construction; we are called upon to envision alternative realities to our daily lives. The task is to create radical urban and architectural proposals that challenge commonly accepted conventions and living standards. In this phase of the studio, we will explore urban design and architecture not just as a physical construct but as a powerful catalyst for social and cultural renewal.
We will follow these steps:
1. Develop the narrative of a plausible future scenario for the study area.
2. Decide as a group what issues of the area you are going to focus on from a spatial point of view and where they should be located. The concept of ‘commons’ will be used to frame the selection of issues.
3. Propose urban strategies capable of addressing those issues gradually. How will you stage change in the area over time: which strategies and in what order?
4. Define a timeline for implementing your urban intervention over time. How are you going to stage change in the area over time? Which strategies and in what order?
5. Divide the study area into five equal parts – one for each member of your team.