Viale Monza 335- Concept generation
Concept generation | from problems to solutions
The first phase of the research helped us to better understand the context. Getting to know the location, both spatially and sociologically, has allowed us to take a critical stance on the area of intervention assigned to us. With the desire to improve the functionality and appearance of the space, in order to create its new identity, it was crucial to understand the problems and desires of those who inhabit it. Through research, we have been able to identify what shapes this area today and recognize which issues need to be addressed first, which aspects of the space are worth preserving and improving, and which features need to be completely renounced. Our main conclusion was that interventions that should be implemented, in order to solve the issues of this location, are related to both its spatial and sociological aspects- as the connection between the two represents one of its most distinctive features.
Proponents proposition project served as a useful source of information and a strong starting point in the process of concept generation. The long-standing connection and the experience of the people (associations) involved in the process of improving this space, helped us understand this area on an even higher level and recognize the details that require special attention. One of these focal points is the question of Pane Quotidiano Association which is very significant actor in this space: before deciding on any interventions it is important to understand how this organization is working and what are their needs regarding the space and health care of those in need. This is just one of the many aspects of this space pointed out by proponents which was coordinated with conclusions we had already derived from our own research.
Relying on our own findings, as well as the proponents proposition project, we were able to understand fundamental conceptual aims of our intervention, and use them as a starting point for the next phase of the project- identifying two visions that could serve as an answer to defined problems.
Vision 1 | The People’s Garden
Our first vision is based on the concept of urban agriculture, with a focus on public participation and cooperation. The main aim of this intervention is to connect the people in our block by creating a community garden. We want to encourage the inhabitants to work together in order to develop a new, healthier style of urban life. This is a good way to build a sense of a community by giving people a chance to work together, interact, relax and enjoy locally produced food out of the community garden. It is a beneficial tool for making a happier and healthier community, and re-building appreciation for fresh organic food as a common and valuable source of this neighborhood.
In addition, our proposition includes programs and activities aimed at all groups of users of this space. From daily gardening activities to weekly Sunday markets, we want to bring the vision behind this green concept directly to the inhabitants.
This idea is an attempt to change people’s mindsets on a broader scale, pursuing an alternative approach on how to use an urban space in a healthy, ecological, sustainable way. Through this we want to make the community stronger and give this space a new positive identity.
Vision 2 | Art of Diversity
Our second vision aims to create a common space which celebrates the diversity of this community through artistic interventions. Having in mind the fact that this area is located in one of the most socially diverse zones of Milan, which today represents a weakness and a source of problems. Our goal is to turn this around into a strength. Using art as a tool we want to give identity to this space and make it a place with a positive connotation that people are proud to live in.
We want to encourage inclusivity and raise awareness about all the different cultures presented in this area. Our idea is to create programs and activities of artistic nature that include all inhabitants. Art production, educational festivals, art workshops, thematic activities and events can be used as tools to celebrate the diversity and bring people closer together while creating a united community.
It is another attempt to change people’s mindsets by giving a new, socially inclusive, identity to this space. We want to connect people though art and re-define diversity as something to be proud of and a positive aspect which should be celebrated.
Team 9:
Danica Pavicevic, Daniela Pérez, Lotta Petersen, Natalia Romero, Ksenija Martic
