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(Archive) What if Lab: Rethinking shared space

What if… we transform shared space into sustainable mixed-use areas?

This project was part of DDW 2023
Amsterdam — © Sweco Nederland

A future-proof living and working environment requires integral and adaptive solutions. Within that we have to make choices. Especially in spaces where different functions such as industry, people and mobility come together.

Sweco Design Challenge

Together with the Dutch Design Foundation, Sweco is organizing the What if Lab for the third time. In this lab we challenge designers to develop a groundbreaking application for the spatial, social and digital domain. This year, Space&Matter, Starling Studio and Cocosmos have the opportunity to bring innovative ideas to the table together with the experts from Sweco.

Pressure on shared space is increasing

The challenge this year revolves around shared space because it is limited and the pressure on the available space is increasing. In the city centre, in the rural area and in the places where the two meet.

Solutions

This makes it necessary to look at spatial structures, design and use in a different way. Think of places where things are chafing now, where industry opposes living, mobility opposes quality of life or nature opposes agriculture. The designers have come up with solutions for how functions in these areas can be mixed together in a positive and future-proof way.

The selected designers will have access to Sweco's knowledge and network. In addition, they will take the stage during the Dutch Design Week 2023.

Amsterdam — © Sweco Nederland

Amsterdam — © Sweco Nederland

M4H Rotterdam — © Sweco Nederland

M4H Rotterdam