Langhorst, J., 2004, Rising from ruins: postindustrial sites between abandonment and engagement, in: OPENspace, ‘Open space, people space’, OPENspace, Edinburgh
- Author : Langhorst, J.
- Year : 2004
- Published in Book : Open space, people space
- Abstract in English : The analysis of four case studies supports the hypothesis that the extremely divergent attitudes to and interests in postindustrial sites, as well as the complexity and contestation of the sites, necessitate design solutions that take into account their history, both in its physical remnants and in its socio-cultural and economic contexts. It is suggested that brownfields in particular offer the opportunity to develop design solutions that allow for “inclusive multiplicity and pluralism, as in a kind of synthetic ‘overview’ that enables differences to play themselves out” (Corner 2000: 2). The understanding of the temporal and dynamic character of any landscape and design solution, as well as a design process that facilitates a fair representation of the existing attitudes towards and expectations of the site, is paramount for success. Brownfields and other postindustrial sites seem particularly suited to create public open space that allows for a variety of uses and activities, and could potentially support the understanding of landscape not just as a product, but as an agency for ecological, cultural and social change.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: postindustrial sites, brownfield reclamation, participation, responsive design. [paper 6 p.]