As part of my design project at WDKA in Rotterdam, I undertook observations as part of my site research of the Schouwburgplein.
Having undertaken a variety of observations of the square and its surroundings - it's clear some improvements must be made to change this space into a functional and enjoyable area that serves the local inhabitants and visitors.
The first issue that I observed was that, due to the raised nature of the square, it is completely inaccessible to those who are not ambulant or those with basic activity disabilities. This is a huge issue as it creates an atmosphere of exclusion - not just in the space but in the city. It shows that the city and the designers who work for the city, do not care for or see the needs of such a large portion of people - failing to make it clear that all people are welcome in this square and this city. Having looked into the sector that is being ignored, I found that in The Netherlands as a whole, 13.6% of people have a basic activity disability - this equals to 1,497,000 people. This is clearly an issue which I shall address in my design.
The next issue, is that of the design. The brightly coloured grass carpet, although it may be a feature in the summer, is a great detraction in the rainy seasons. The texture of the carpet makes it unpleasant to walk on when wet leading many people to avoid walking across the square. Due to the high levels of rainfall in The Netherlands, the use of the square is minimal during a large portion of the year and it would benefit from an area of protection against the rain and an improved drainage system.
Another key problem is as most people who need to walk through the square are directed to a red carpet which runs along side the square. This carpet leads foot traffic being directed away from walking through and enjoying the square. During my observations I created a photomontage which shows the division that the red carpet creates which reasonably shows how divided the walkway is from the rest of the square. It is essential to direct foot traffic through the square is a different way in order to encourage visitors to interact with the space.