+ Space: Appropriation of Urban Infrastructure

Abstract

This thesis explores and proposes urban design schemes for three underutilized and partially abandoned industrial and transportation properties that are presently voids and that are divisive to the urban fabric of Copenhagen’s central city. The sites of the voids are located along the rail line that currently and historically serve Copenhagen’s Central Train Station. These are Banegardspladsen and the two Boulevard Line’s voids. The goal of this thesis is to propose an urban design scheme that follows a feasibility study that states the opportunities and limitations set by Copenhagen’s municipality, the community, as well as the property owners. The scheme proposes the interlinking of the physical aspect of a living city with it’s culture, not only to serve the locals but to welcome visitor by providing Copenhagen with a desired central gathering space as well as a place for arrival to the city. The urban intervention becomes a celebration of History, an exhibition of the transportation culture of the city and provides a series of public spaces that encourage spontaneous events threaded by a string of pedestrian and bike paths.