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December 23, 2024
City Design

Urban Activation: The Arches Project in London

  • April 30, 2024
  • 2 min read
Urban Activation: The Arches Project in London

The Arches Project, spearheaded by Boano Prišmontas, is a visionary urban strategy designed to revitalize disused spaces throughout London and the UK. By harnessing digitally fabricated structural systems and dry-joint techniques, the project aims to transform abandoned pocket spaces such as railway arches, undercrofts, and multi-story car parks into vibrant hubs of activity.

Nomadic and Sustainable Design

At its core, The Arches Project seeks to create a kit of parts that can be easily assembled and redeployed, emphasizing a nomadic, temporary, and sustainable approach to urban regeneration. Boano Prišmontas collaborates with developers and councils to swiftly establish affordable workspaces for local businesses and startups, fostering short and mid-term urban revitalization strategies.

Innovative Structural System

Challenging conventional fit-out practices, the project introduces a digitally fabricated structural system that circumvents limitations imposed by standard procedures. By offering a freestanding, self-buildable plug-in space, Boano Prišmontas provides an alternative solution to enhance the thermal quality of the environment while maintaining flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Modular Components

The structural system comprises two main elements: modular CNC-cut plywood boxes and beams. These components are designed to maximize space utilization and support external cladding, facilitating natural light penetration and showcasing activity within the space. Additionally, the project prioritizes geometric efficiency and material sustainability, minimizing waste and repurposing offcuts for innovative design pieces.

Reusability and Community Engagement

A key aspect of The Arches Project is its commitment to reusability and community involvement. Dry-joinery techniques enable easy assembly and dismantling by unskilled workers, promoting local engagement and social impact. Furthermore, each component is intended for redeployment, ensuring longevity and adaptability in future urban interventions.

The Arches Project stands as a testament to innovative design thinking and community-driven urban revitalization, offering a blueprint for sustainable, adaptable, and socially inclusive city planning initiatives. Through collaboration and creativity, Boano Prišmontas showcases the transformative potential of adaptive reuse in shaping the urban landscapes of tomorrow.

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Elsa Petit

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