The modernistic, social housing area receives a makeover to improve the life of its current and future residents. The connections to the surrounding city are improved, apartments are renovated and the common green areas are made safer to navigate around the clock with paths and lighting, while new elements for play and pleasure are introduced to foster community among the residents.
URBAN POWER made the plan for the future development, the masterplan and the schematic design for the transformation of housing and infrastructure. Prior to the approved deliverables URBAN POWER carried out the initial research, workshops and dialogue with residents, the housing board, local authorities and the city council.
The much discussed social housing area of Motalavej is being upgraded from a repetitive and isolated housing scheme, to a more open and diverse neighbourhood with a focus on social coherence internally and externally. The closed and tall perimeter block structure is transformed by partly reducing the height and extend of the block, with the remaining apartments being renovated and diversified in typology.
Flow between buildings and public spaces are made safer and easier with paths, sidewalks and crossings to create a calmer urban street, where the road bends to slow down traffic. Parking is relocated to make room for pedestrian paths between blocks and make social meetings more likely and convenient. The neighbourhood is celebrated with colourful light and flowering trees at its access points, highlighting the many qualities and the positive changes happening.
