'Transitioning' project tour through the Binckhorst

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 13^th 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.

'Dear All,

You are officially invited to The KABK Master Interior Architecture (INSIDE) Studio III project presentation!

Over the last six months our group has researched the Binckhorst, a hotspot of transformation in the city of Den Haag. The projects we will exhibit are the results of these months-long researches, which wouldn't have been possible without your help.

Date, time and location:

On Friday May 22^nd , starting from 10am. We will meet at De Besturing (Saturnusstraat 91, 2516 AG Den Haag) to start a walking tour of the area, where we will stop at different locations to attend the presentation of each individual project.

The presentations will start at 10AM. After the end we will head back to De Besturing where we will have a litte get together, wrapping up at around 5pm.

If the weather is good, we will enjoy a nice day outside with some food and drinks.

You are welcome to stay as long as you want, and feel free to bring a friend!

RSVP

See you Soon!

Master Interior Architecture (INSIDE)'

Written using text by Claudio Saccucci