OUR PLACE

A conversation about the culture of our place

With A SENSE OF OUR PLACE a conversation was organized with vulnerable youth from the shelter on Elandsstraat in Amsterdam. The research focuses on the significance of the culture of our place—in this case, our street

Some different insights were found, for example, that they dream longingly about the square behind the school connected to their street. You can get there through the old "Slangengang" (Snake Alley), but the big gate is always locked after school hours. If only they could have a key, they would certainly take good care of it, understanding that this privilege comes with responsibility. Noise wouldn’t be an issue, as they have to be back in the shelter by 9 pm. As for leaving litter, they are also bothered by the trash on the streets as it makes everything look so sad.

They know it’s unlikely they’ll get access to that schoolyard, but they dream of a place where they can simply be themselves and where they allowed to hang out. Or even a canopy to sit under where they will take care of, is that really too much to ask?

Through their eyes, you suddenly see how barren and one-dimensional the public space has been designed. Everything is manicured, compartmentalized, and build with assumptions, making a day outdoors feel sometimes endlessly long.

Program: Research

Completion: 2024 (case study)

Location: Amsterdam - Elandsstraat

Client: Platform NL

Design: A SENSE OF_ and Khani Architecten

Visuals: A SENSE OF_ and Khani Architecten

Collaboration: Khani Architecten and Opvang Elandsstraat