Shop Talk
Shop Talk is an informal platform for discussions between actors involved in the planning and development of the city, that in different ways contribute to the creation of new qualities and narratives. A series of reflective conversations aiming to raise knowledge, inspire, create dialogue, meeting opportunities and to exchange experiences. Low-key, no microphone, no minutes, without an audience or preparation.
Shop Talk 05: Reimagining the urban workplace
Local growth, innovation and opportunities
There is a great potential in the development of future urban environments. Creating conditions for mixed activities and movement flows informed by the sense of community is one of them. Another example could be innovation clusters and workplace districts fit for new economic models. How could a neighbourhood be shaped to promote long-term sustainable and diverse businesses? What might be the programmatic content for innovative urban structures where various social forces cooperate?
Shop Talk 04: Meanwhile Use
How can we unlock the community potential of unused spaces?
Such unused or underused spaces are often referred to as “meanwhile” as they are interim solutions, ways to rejuvenate spaces while waiting for long-term development plans or construction to commence.
How can these projects be cleverly integrated into urban renewal; drivers to create public value and new experiences? With expanded cultural and employment possibilities. Could a meanwhile-strategic-approach ensure that urban development and building projects become less exposed to “the unpredictable gamechangers” (such as Covid-19) and instead have the potential to drive innovation and community engagement?
Shop Talk 03: Media and architecture
Media and journalism play an important role in today’s public discussion about architecture and built environment. Perhaps media has even become its co-creators, alongside with other actors within the urban society.
Putting urban environments and buildings into perspective – from a historical, cultural and international point of view – can media contribute to a deeper and more nuanced discourse on what the built environment should or can do? On what expectations, dreams and basic requirements can we as citizens, users, developers, planners and politicians set?
Shop Talk 02: The Permissive Street
The street is probably the most important public space in a city, connecting us directly to each other, taking us places and providing a space to meet, occupy, enjoy and walk through.
The point of departure for this discussion is the sum of possibilities of a street being a space to inhabit. A public space inviting for all, where people of various backgrounds, ages and lifestyles can meet, stay and in some way share values and together shape a community.
Shop Talk 01: Art in the City
How may art contribute to development and regeneration; in what way can it support community, improve quality of life, open our senses and affect how we experience the city? Have artists taken the role of urban curators, gaining the knowledge and capacity to shape civil dialogue processes, creative communities and placemaking where art plays a key role? We certainly believe so and look forward to new exciting collaborations and processes.