PROJECT PROPOSAL: a Kiosk and Workshop System on the Red Thread in Dessau, Germany
The proposal presented here outlines a comprehensive plan to revitalize Dessau, a rust-belt town in Germany, which has experienced a decline in population and loss of industry. By implementing a kiosk and workshop system along the Red Thread, this project aims to honor Dessau’s rich history, reinvigorate its urban fabric, and stimulate a new industry that can sustain the town.
DESSAU’S ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY. Dessau holds a significant place in architectural history, particularly as the birthplace of the influential Bauhaus School. This renowned institution revolutionized modern architecture and design in the early 20th century. Unfortunately, Dessau’s architectural heritage has been subject to erasure over time and the destructive impacts of war. However, this proposal seeks to reclaim the essence of what was lost by adopting a process of architectural subtraction and reinterpretation.
ARCHITECTURAL SUBTRACTION & GHOST STRUCTURES. In this project, the concept of “ghost structures” plays a vital role. By excavating the sites and reviewing the remnants of erased buildings, the proposal seeks to uncover the past and merge it with the present. Through a process of subtraction, simplified ghost structures are removed from a basic form, resulting in a new architectural composition that coexists with, surrounds, or bridges the gaps between these historical remnants. This approach fosters a dialogue between past and present, enabling a deeper understanding and appreciation of Dessau’s architectural heritage.
WORKSHOP & KIOSK SYSTEM. The heart of this proposal lies in the development of a workshop system, inspired by the Bauhaus emphasis on six different workshops: woodworking, metalworking, ceramics, weaving, graphics, and theater. These workshops serve as creative hubs where artisans and craftspeople can practice their skills, collaborate, and generate innovative products. Located near the Red Thread, these workshops are easily accessible to both locals and visitors.
Complementing the workshop system is the inclusion of a kiosk strategically positioned along the Red Thread. The kiosk serves as a gateway to the workshops, providing information about their respective focuses and displaying the products created within them. This integration fosters a vibrant exchange between the community and the workshops, enabling a greater appreciation for the crafts and skills being practiced within Dessau.
UC Berkeley | Prof. Greg Castillo & Prof. Rene Davids | Individual project
