Cerda Network Parc
Using the series of ‘leftover’ triangles of the Cerda plan in Barcelona to create a great new public space, not as one or as a system, but as a series of sequenced elements.
In the mid 1800’s, when Cerda created the plan for Barcelona, he merely saw the chamfered corners of each block as a functional move – to allow for easier turns for trams in the future. Years later they have formed an iconic urban form known round the world. However this block form has morphed into a bizarre reality. These spaces are often treated like they were originally designed – as leftovers. Often used as parking lots, trash bins, etc. In reality there are nearly 200 of these triangle corners. They sit in one of the greatest cities in the world, with some of the greatest public spaces in the world, with some of the best weather in the world. How can these spaces be rethought of? Can they be more than just a series of ad hoc designs done individually? Could they form a series of individual public spaces that when taken together form a new kind of park? Could they form the first true network park?
As a bonus, it is an illustration to students on realities of working on a site that they may never have visited. A common reality in the design world. And will teach how to harness the many common tools today for ‘visiting’ a site– google street view, bing maps, flickr, etc.