The proposal for the new city center of Klaksvik by studio BÄNG and Sebastian Schroeter focuses on the center’s ability to work when public life can be guaranteed at any weather condition. The key task is to create a clearly composed city center. Going ahead from this parameter, a center is created that is not only formal but also functionally designed. The value of this concept is even stronger, when the urban sprawl around the new center increases in density. In contrast to the powerful but silent inner town square. More images and architects’ description after the break.
The city’s hillsides, which are relatively well protected are cultivated because of the strong wind channel which is formed due to the topography of the island. With their given situation, the issue of being protected means especially in the case of stormy winds closing. But closing is obstructive for the establishment and functioning of a city center. Taking a closer look at the disjoint and split structure of the city, it becomes clear that the city center will only be able to be recognized by a structural contrast. A ring contains all functions of everyday life and protects the heart including functions that need to be sheltered to offer a lively city.
The embrace creates the edge and entry of the square. It appears above city, landscape and sea. It makes no difference how one reaches the ring. However one reaches it afoot, by bike, by car or even by bus; once arrived one is protected. Independent from climatic conditions all function; from shopping to administration are accessible. Reaching the center by bus one is able to move protected from stormy weather. From the underground parking situated at the basement one has direct access to the upper floors. By foot the centre is accessible through one of the breaks through the ground floor. The entrances are placed contra the main direction of the wind. Thus, both an inflow of wind and a welcoming accessibility is guaranteed. The ring becomes a symbol of the protective embracing, which sets the base for a sheltered communal live at the inner square.
The community hall is located in this protection, at the intersection of sea and land. It accommodates central functions. In addition to the library, multifunctional space and art school, the hall also hosts the community and cultural center with a restaurant and cafe. Here, urban life in any weather is possible. The community hall has direct access to three sides of the square, which may be involved in fine weather. On the fourth side, the one of the café is a sheltered harbor. At this point the access to the sea extends until the square. As a result it creates differentiated and exciting spatial situations that involve the entire environment.
The inner square is the basis of the evolving urban life. The entrances are publicly available at any time. From the sheltered square all functions are accessible. The space itself can be used in many ways – whether festival, market, fair or public square. All forms of life are transferable to the center. To fulfill the miscellaneous needs various insights, perspectives, and structures were formed to guarantee individual spatial situations.
The lighthouse is a landmark. As a traditional maritime symbol it hosts a café at the interface between land and water. It is creating a room with a spectacular panoramic view at the top level. A museum about the history of Klaksvik is located on the upper floors of the lighthouse as well. At this unique location the situation of an isthmus is visible the most. You can recognize the relationships between the urban space, the landscape and the sea. At this point you understand the interaction of this incomparable interface.
