This project aims to investigate and explore the potential of Hans Tanks Kvartalet, as an inclusive and friendly quarter of Bergen. The intention is to open up the two former backyards for public use and to reinforce interaction between people since Vågsbunnen demonstrates the potential as a meeting point and urban space.
Therefore, the main idea is to turn the interior courtyard inside-out, making the activities and programs of the surrounding buildings turn towards the yard. This will cause that the buildings have no backsides and the yard will be activated into an urban square.
Moreover, the empty school buildings will get a public program in the shape of a cultural platform and a food court, connected to the existing cultural drivers and existing programs in Vågsbunnen. Consequently, the project aims to include groups and ages that are not included in the present situation.
Situation Plan
The two backyards are now connected to one urban square with a landscape in the shape of a ramp, creating a simple language that let the materiality talk more than the shape. With a variety of different floor materials and with a guiding gutter, it intends to help to increase the ability to orientate. Moreover, with help from public lightning, it intends to further emphasize orientation.
Also, the added carpet is an addition to what is already there and try to respond to the diversity of the surrounding buildings. In this way, the carpet creates a type of patchwork that could raise the interest of the square when passing by. Creating a variation of spaces can help to strengthen the sense of belonging and include a greater amount of people. The main idea is to not segregate people, but let everyone feel like space is theirs.
The ramp shows the main gesture of direction and therefore opens up for a variety of user groups that could not use the space before due to the different levels. With an angle of 6%, the ramp should function smoothly for all sorts of access; by walking, using a wheelchair, use a baby carriage, with a walker, with luggage, with a lower vision etc. With the ramp, it now becomes possible for everyone to use the space.
Also, the added carpet is an addition to what is already there and try to respond to the diversity of the surrounding buildings. In this way, the carpet creates a type of patchwork that could raise the interest of the square when passing by. Creating a variation of spaces can help to strengthen the sense of belonging and include a greater amount of people. The main idea is to not segregate people, but let everyone feel like space is theirs.
The ramp shows the main gesture of direction and therefore opens up for a variety of user groups that could not use the space before due to the different levels. With an angle of 6%, the ramp should function smoothly for all sorts of access; by walking, using a wheelchair, use a baby carriage, with a walker, with luggage, with a lower vision etc. With the ramp, it now becomes possible for everyone to use the space.
Materiality of the carpet
By working with different materiality in the carpet, we try to respond to the diversity and the sense of belonging. The added carpet is an addition to what is there and an extension of the property lines. In this way, the carpet creates a type of patchwork and could raise the interest for the square when passing by.
We also chose to add some trees that have been existing at the spot before, like oak, maple and wild cherry. They will help to bring back the animal life in terms of insects and smaller birds. It also refers to the ecology study we did.
We also chose to add some trees that have been existing at the spot before, like oak, maple and wild cherry. They will help to bring back the animal life in terms of insects and smaller birds. It also refers to the ecology study we did.
As for materiality of the carpet, we decided to work with natural stones or clay, that can be found in other urban projects in Bergen. To choose ground bricks with colour on the street, it can help to strengthen the identity to space. It also refers to the colour study we did.
Universal Design Details
Universal design is defined by the way we treat accessibility and inclusivity with human dignity.
There are countless of different human conditions, and there will be many answers.
There are countless of different human conditions, and there will be many answers.
Model
Model 1.200
Cross Section from Østre Skostredet to Kong Oscars Gate
Fabulations
A rainy day
This perspective shows the square on a rainy day. Then it could be a place you pass on the way to work or to take a stroll. It also shows the connection - how it is now possible to walk around the space.
This perspective shows the pocket square and the main entrance into the yard. Here one can see how the different floor materials create a patchwork.
A sunny day
Here one can see how the pocket square now functions as an inviting space for activity and how the program of Litteraturhuset could be extended out and create a Litterature wall.
In a more sunny day, the square can be used for a variety of activities. This is seen from the food court. This platform could, for example, function as a stage, when it is not a terrace or passage.
The Food Court
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Ground Floor Plan
The life inside the food court
The food court aims to include a greater variety of groups through the culture of food. Moreover, by working with the concept to improve movement and circulation, there are no objects attached to the wall to increase the access and flow of people.
The slabs and floors of the former school building were opened up to create better visual contact between the floors and to emphasize better orientation.
In order to not segregate, but embrace that we have different needs, all toilets and elevators are fitted to the size of a wheelchair. Moreover, by creating a variety of heights and sizes for tables, bar desks, seatings and sinks in the toilet, people of different size, ages and with different special needs can use the same space without the need of separation or special treatment.
The slabs and floors of the former school building were opened up to create better visual contact between the floors and to emphasize better orientation.
In order to not segregate, but embrace that we have different needs, all toilets and elevators are fitted to the size of a wheelchair. Moreover, by creating a variety of heights and sizes for tables, bar desks, seatings and sinks in the toilet, people of different size, ages and with different special needs can use the same space without the need of separation or special treatment.
Ground Floor Plan
First Floor Plan
Second Floor Plan
Universal Design Details
Cross Section of the Building
