The Master Interior Architecture (INSIDE) have begun their second semester, setting off through the February gloom towards Binckhorst to start an exciting new collaboration with De Besturing.
Binckhorst: a moving history
Binckhorst is an historical district located on the outskirts of The Hague, a place that seems in constant flux. Over hundreds of years, it has evolved from swamp to concrete jungle, a neighborhood of stark contrasts: the cemetery rests mere minutes’ walk from numerous spas, a vast two-story McDonalds boasts a view of a 13th century castle site — you get the idea.
Exploring the theme of Transitioning
It figures then that this area is the locus for INSIDE’s new studio project based around the theme of Transitioning.
“Trans- (through) / Tran-situs (through a place) / Tran-sire (past principle of Passare) / Passare (from Pander, to open up, to make an opening, to cleave)”
Over nearly five months, the students of INSIDE will become intimately acquainted with the Binckhorst area, from its deep and varied history to its much speculated upon future. They will be based at De Besturing, an artist collective with a reputation of fierce autonomy, who purchased their building from the municipality in 2017, thus cementing their place in the fabric of the Binckhorst.
"Create meaningful, long-lasting contributions"
The goal of Studio Urban Den Haag, Binckhorst, is to “build connections and create meaningful, long-lasting contributions to an area,” through “attentive observation, dialogue, and study.”
Students will begin this journey by getting to know the area through various workshops, walks, and sessions with a range of fascinating guests. They will at once speculate on what is possible — using the full force of their imaginations — while also feeling out grounded ways of working together.
Topics that will be explored include:
- Ecology & the Soil: Ecological and regenerative possibilities
- Inclusivity & Porosity: Policies and action for an equal city
- Care & the Other: Nourishing practices in contemporary urban settings
- Commons & Network: Support structures in Binckhorst
- Demolition & Displacement: Selecting demographics
Innovations that strengthen community
Throughout the project, there will be a key emphasis on interacting with / understanding the needs of the current residents and workers at the Binckhorst through community involvement, as well as the artists, past and present, who have been inspired by the district. This research will be essential for understanding the spatial interventions and ideas that would benefit Binckhorst — innovations that help people come together and strengthen community — rather than notions around gentrification or economic gain.
Discover the projects on May 22
It is fitting then that the project Transitions will end with a public moment. An event where the students, the local community, and those from further afield can come and see what is possible through research, imagination, reflection, and connection.
Although the exact form of the presentation is not yet decided, we ask you to save the date of the 22nd of May. In the past, a walk has been organized, stopping at different locations which refer to each student’s project.
On the 22nd of May the students of Master’s Interior Architecture (INSIDE) invite you to join them in thinking with and alongside the Binckhorst.
More details TBC
Written using text by Claudio Saccucci