This April, we gathered for a pivotal group meeting at the “Ion Mincu” University of Architecture and Urbanism, where we discussed diverse development paths for our case studies. Here is a short dive into what we’ve been working on.
Transforming Spaces, Building Communities
At the heart of our fellowship projects is a shared goal: transforming urban spaces into hubs of community connection and creativity. Each case study explores unique challenges and opportunities, guided by innovative methods and active engagement.
Replika Educational Theatre Center
Replika aims to become a "third place" for educational theater, equipping students with life skills and personal development tools. Using questionnaires, the team is assessing the needs of nearby high schools and middle schools while exploring connections with civic initiatives in the Tineretului and Șincai neighborhoods. By contributing to local cohesion efforts, Replika envisions a thriving community space.
AteliereleMalmaison: Preserving Heritage, Supporting Artists
How can a historic building become a sanctuary for resident artists? This case study focuses on creating an accessible and artist-friendly space. Through mental mapping, the team is capturing the community’s perceptions and aspirations, seeking answers about what makes an artistic venue inclusive and welcoming.
TeatrulMasca: Bringing Theatre to the Neighborhood
Teatrul Masca strives to transform into a local theater deeply rooted in its community. By employing questionnaires, mental mapping, and street theater demonstrations, the project is identifying community needs and exploring ways to increase engagement and interaction with local residents.
Cismi.Civic: Connecting Residents and Local Businesses
The Cismi.Civic project explores the relationship between residents and small local businesses. Through social mapping techniques such as questionnaires, focus groups, semi-structured interviews, and a photo safari documenting business spaces, the team is uncovering shared interests and opportunities for collaboration to foster community cohesion.
Victoria Depot: From Technical Facility to Community Space
This project reimagines a technical facility as a space for public interaction and community relevance. Using demographic and socio-economic surveys, interviews with residents, and digital social network analysis, the team is finding ways to balance the depot’s technical functions with its potential as an interactive transport museum.
Together, we’re working to transform urban spaces and build stronger, more connected communities. Each case study is a step toward understanding how participatory urbanism can bring people together, highlighting the role of social mapping and collaboration in shaping the future of our cities.
Follow us for more updates on the progress of our fellowship projects and the brilliant fellows behind them.
Let’s continue to reimagine urban spaces, one step at a time.
Discover our social mapping methods: https://urboteca.ro/metode-cartare-sociala/
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