Governance of a city
The first moment of the conception of governance may be lost, but several political entities from basic to comprehensive systems are well-known. The present governance system has evolved from its previous versions of monarchy rule and basic self-governance to democracy and totalitarianism.
As the early human settlements progressed in agriculture with information sharing, it led to a rise in the density of people. To organize the larger community and their well-being, forms of governance and leadership came into being.
With time, governance became complex, since progress and advancement created intricate networks of living, bound in the political boundaries of nations, cities, or towns and districts. It is a hierarchical system with a body of authority on every level making laws and policies.
Every regime has the responsibility of establishing order in the community and its judicial and administrative processes take place in designated public buildings like courthouses and civic centers. This forum allows people to be an active part of politics and government ruling in the area.
Is politics separate from society and culture?
Townhall is the administrative centre of a city and base for council members and its employees. These spaces are connoted with a formal ambiance since they are used by council officials for meetings, but these halls serve other civic and cultural activities of the community. This political space can be used to support the development of the local community by providing spaces for shows, performances, and festivals. The gathering in public spaces reveals to citizens a sense of power through the crowd.
But there is often an issue of representation of the common people of the town. Bureaucracy tends to dominate the structure and it is rendered as a symbol of power or authority over the people. The architecture of these buildings is demonstrative of this, as they are solid and introverted, discouraging the public to access them proactively. The town hall is supposed to be a place of connection between people and authority, amidst political and cultural exchange. It is capable of raising awareness of the power within people.
How can architecture and spatial design aid in the expression of this ideal, in an effective manner?
Brief of the Competition
Brief: Design a public town hall that will not only be a workplace for civilians, but also an interface between them and the citizens of the city.
It should offer a platform for people to participate in political events. The transition from private to public access spaces can be aided by open spaces. The hall must be accessible to all the city inhabitants. The layout must segregate as well as integrate the public, as per the situation.
Aesthetics must represent the city and its people. Contextual aspects of the site must be taken into account, so it is an escape from the monotonous landscape of urbanity, but at the same time blend with surroundings in a unique way.
The aim of the design is to promote social interaction amongst citizens and the officials, providing a common ground. Transparency must be moderated to balance approachability with privacy and security. Multi-functional spaces can be designed to cater to public needs during events, festivals, or other interactive sessions.
Design Objectives
- Concept — The design must represent the city, its progress, and the ideals of its people in the contemporary age.
- Layout — The segregation of spaces must be efficient to allow for easy navigation and access
- Landmark — The form of the town hall must be a representation of the context, culture, and values, accessible to all its visitors. It must be a cultural icon in the city.
- Balance — a balance between the private and public access spaces must be achieved for smooth functioning of the center
- Context — the design must respond to the (existing) site conditions. The wider socio-cultural, economic, and environmental settings are to be considered in the design approach.
Site
The site is in the city of Salzburg, Austria. The landscape of art and architecture is filled with remnants of many eras that make it a popular spot for cultural tourism.
The Old Town Hall in Salzburg is a landmark from 1772, located in the core of the historic district. The hall also performed as a courthouse in the early days. Now, as this iconic structure attracts many visitors, the lower floors are used as galleries to display local artist’s work, and the remaining part has city council offices.
The site of the proposed town hall is in the center of the city surrounded by a mixed neighborhood. Its location has the advantage of a good amount of households in the area.
- Site area — 5309 sq.m
- Maximum Builtup area — 5309 sq.m
- Ground coverage — 40%
- Height restrictions — 9 meters
- Setbacks (as per CAD plan)
- Coordinates — 47°48'37.7"N 13°03'15.4"E
Area Programme
The following programmatic outline is the point to begin your design at. You can add more functions and activities in relevance or modify the below design program.
Administration Offices ~ 200 sq.m
- Exhibition hall ~ 200 sq.m
- Council Chambers ~ 100 sq.m
- Meeting rooms ~ 200 sq.m
- Conference halls ~ 100 sq.m
- Library and Archives ~ 300 sq.m
- Cafeteria ~ 100 sq.m
A roof garden, Courtyard, Public Plaza, and other open areas can be designated by the participant.
Originally published at https://uni.xyz.
