Johannesburg 2050-2100. Reclaiming the right to the sidewalk.
New Doornfontein, Johannesburg, South Africa
Wash U Degree Project (Urban Design)
Summer 2017
Design Critics: John Hoal, Jonathan Stitleman
Global Urbanism Studio
I researched and observed the complex urban forms, social juxtapositions and spatial apartheid that exists within Johannesburg. In an attempt to develop a more livable urban arena for post-apartheid Johannesburg, my proposal uses a replicable prototype called a “pocket” to activate public space and alleviate the overcrowded housing conditions. This street intervention allows scalable forms to transform over time and adapt to the changing needs of the neighborhood.
historically, sanitation tactics have been put in place to strengthen the exclusionary nature of public space in Johannesburg. (who defines the public?). moving towards a new inclusive future, how can we rethink the sidewalk and use the space we have to transform our understanding of ownership and right to public space?