Urban graft: restorative urban gardens and social justice hub in King's Park Bloemfontein
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Date
2019-10
Authors
Wessels, Louis
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
The concept of social justice is understood as a fair relationship between the individual and society, measured
by the distribution of wealth, opportunities for personal activity and social privileges (Kitching 2001: 3-10).
The central precinct of Bloemfontein, King's Park, does not adhere to these general measurements and is
in a state of decay. The site has lost its significance as an integral part of the city over time. Historically the
interpretation of these aspects can be viewed as the public Zoo and Rose Garden. This has come to be an
outdated iteration, because the use of cages has become a socially questionable practice that is viewed as
inhumane and cruel to its inhabitants.
This dissertation aims to introduce a contemporary interpretation of nature within the city in a more
contemporary, updated and socially acceptable manner. Through the use of public gardens accompanied
by a programme of facilities that caters to the general public, the project offers a lost part of the city back
to the public. The park's derelict state is in dire need of conversion of a semi-exclusive space to an inclusive
public space.
This will be achieved by using the four social justice aspects in conjunction with a social hub to re-integrate
the contemporary re-interpretation into the site of King's Park. The result will be an effective and appropriate
ensemble that aims to reflect the justification of its social status. By transforming the site into a structure of
service to the community, it will relate to the public. This intervention should function as a graft where the
existing park is the original 'plant' and the design proposal is a shoot or twig acting as a graft for new urban
growth.
Description
Keywords
Dissertation (M.Arch. (Architecture))--University of the Free State, 2019, Bloemfontein, King's Park, Contemporary interpretation of nature, Public participation, Urban green space, Urban ecology, Environmental ethics, Social justice