In recent years, the architectural community has become heavily involved, in both positive and negative ways, with the chronic global issue of homelessness. In response, James Furzer of UK-based Spatial Design Architects has undertaken a photographic analysis exploring defensive forms of urban design. Using the typology of public benches in London, Furzer documents public fixtures which act as deterrents to rough sleepers, essentially denying a right to the city for those who ultimately have no choice but to be there.
Metronome(s). Image Courtesy of London Design Biennale
The French Pavilion at the London Design Biennale 2020 will explore the theme of resonance through metronomes. The design team will comprise of designer Sebastien Servaire, Margot Myers and curator Anne-Laure Pingreoun. Up to 50 countries, territories and cities will exhibit at the third edition of London Design Biennale this autumn. They will respond to Artistic Director Es Devlin's call to action exploring how design can provide solutions to the major crises of our time.
Privatisation of public land is a growing phenomenon in cities such as London. More and more communal spaces are being sold to public bodies or developers, resulting in them becoming the primary makers of modern cities. This transformation has been giving rise to privately owned public spaces (POPS), a term to describe spaces open to the public, formed from deals between the city and the developer in return for zoning concessions. The areas around King’s Cross current development is one of the 50 POPSs in Central London.