Young Clapton 2020-21

During 2020, the way we live, work and interact within our cities has radically changed due to the coronavirus pandemic, which disproportionally impacted dense urban environments such as East London. Within the pandemic scenario, travelling across the city to work and to carry out daily activities became unfeasible, while a life-style that embraces local activities and reduces travel distances became more desirable.
Transport for London and Local Authorities responded to this quickly by taking temporary measures that accelerate the adoption of innovative policies to rebuild healthier, fairer and more sustainable neighbourhoods including the introduction of low traffic zones, the improvement of infrastructure for cycling and walking, and improvements to the public realm with a more child & youth friendly approach.
Our cities changing and we are interested in how this shift can positively impact urban renewal at local scale. As a continuity to our research into civic spaces, this year we will investigate opportunities
to improve the quality of life in London by focusing on spaces for the Youth across a range of scales, inclusive spaces for Playing, Meeting, Learning, Exchanging and Caring. The design proposals will be informed by the idea of neighbourhoods as a shared and collective place to live, work and play.