Suchergebnisse

The Gentle Densities report aims to investigate the potential of delivering mixed use and mixed tenure housing in Belfast through mid density interventions. In this report we explore the unsustainable nature of private high rise/high density proposals and public low rise current and future sprawl. We therefore propose an alternative model of mid density that could be more environmentally and socially sustainable by reducing travel distances and concentrating services close to housing areas through mixed use. Firstly, this short report defines the concepts of gentle density, mixed use, mixed tenure and public participation that can inform local housing policy. Secondly, it investigates a series of international models of gentle density housing that includes mixed tenure and mixed use, designed and delivered with some level of participatory processes. We explore precedents in the form of three European urban plot and block models and 14 case studies of current mixed use and mixed tenure housing with gentle density. These examples are models of the potential density that could be reached in Belfast City centre and inner city, while maintaining a socio-economic mix and fostering an inclusive and accessible urban development. Finally, the report proposes a series of public land locations in which these models could be developed in Belfast. This project is funded by the Department for Communities Housing and Regeneration divisions and by the Queen's Engaged Research seed fund. This report was conducted by Dr Agustina Martire, principal investigator and Anna Skoura, research assistant. It was developed with the collaboration of KOTO design and students of the StreetSpace studio in the Masters in Architecture (MArch) at Queen's University Belfast. The StreetSpace studio works in collaboration with Participation and the Practice of Rights (PPR) and other local non government organisations who advocate for inclusive and just urban development. This report is meant to start a conversation about density in Northern Ireland. To properly test these models in Northern Irish cities, significant partnerships and funding must follow up as a pathway for a sustainable future of housing in NI.

What happens when versions of the past become silenced, suppressed, or privileged due to urban restructuring? In what ways are the interpretations and performances of 'the past' linked to urban gentrification, marginalization, displacement, and social responses? Authors explore a variety of attempts to interrupt and interrogate urban restructuring, and to imagine alternative forms of urban organization, produced by diverse coalitions of resisting groups and individuals. Armed with historical narratives, oral histories, objects, physical built environment, memorials, and intangible aspects of heritage that include traditions, local knowledge and experiences, memories, authors challenge the 'devaluation' of their neighborhoods in official heritage and development narratives