Frankfurt launches urban living laboratory project

CultureEvents

The City of Frankfurt launched the “Living room Hauptwache 2022” project at its central square on 7 September. The urban living laboratory project on Hauptwache plaza is to run from 7 September to 28 October, with citizens, institutions and initiatives to take part. The pilot project is part of the Post-Corona Inner City Frankfurt development policy, under which the central plaza is to be used in a variety of ways.

While Mayor of Frankfurt Peter Feldmann did not attend the launch of the project, five city officials did, including Councillor for Planning, Housing and Sports Mike Josef and representatives of other city departments involved in the project. Besides officials, award-winning project participants attended the launch of the project, which also attracted passers-by. In total, roughly 140 people sat at the table on Frankfurt’s main square and enjoyed the launch of the project with a selection of Frankfurt specialties.

The city launched its open call for participation in the summer, calling on citizens and groups to pitch concepts and ideas for using the Hauptwache during the seven weeks of the project, and noted that it received positive feedback. Applicants submitted 58 projects of which a jury chose 17 to present to city officials who analysed the proposals. As part of the analysis, they examined feasibility of proposed projects.

Commenting on one of the projects, Josef noted “from my point of view, the temporary staircase over the Hauptwache is an interesting idea whose implementation should be examined.” He reminded that a similar project, dubbed the Rooftop Walk, was recently implemented in Rotterdam. Andrea Jürges, deputy head of the German Museum of Architecture in charge of the selection process, pointed out “the wide range [of submissions] reflects the diversity of our international urban society.” She added that some proposals focus on music or movement, while others include construction of temporary structures “that invite people to linger or open up new perspectives.”

(Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons)