WINNER

REPAIR + CARE

Project Description by Team: The proposed renewal strategy results in a network of self-regulating natural areas and public open spaces, predominantly along existing waterways, to provide lush, inviting green corridors throughout Gösting from the river Mur through to the hiking trails of Plabutsch. This will benefit locals, visitors, overall biodiversity and most importantly, enable the district to better negate the effects of a changing climate. Furthermore, significant changes are proposed to Wienerstraße, the central transport corridor, to better prioritise active and public transport whilst increasing density and activation in the district’s centre.
This will ensure that the development of the new Transport hub compliments a vibrant activated and sustainably focused neighbourhood.

Jury Statement: "The proposed project presents a robust and well-developed strategy that emanates from public spaces and regards Wiener Straße as a focal axis for densification. Particularly noteworthy is the consideration of hydrological aspects and the interconnection of socio-ecological notions.
Noteworthy is the approach that takes public space as a basis for the strategy and focuses on the redistribution of private and semi-public spaces to public areas (school open space and castle park) as catalysts. The new Waterfront area forms the heart of the entire site. Here, it becomes evident how the developed concept is consistently expanded and can span along this versatile open space. The consistent emphasis on water as a central element is commendable and can be seen as an urban as well as an open space design tool. Likewise, the various green spaces along the waterfront are well imaginable as future scenarios [...]
The work is considered convincing not only in terms of design but also strategically. It's evident that the team has put considerable thought into mobility transition and participation processes. Furthermore, the future visions regarding social connectivity and the integration of public spaces appear capable of addressing the complex requirements and challenges in Gösting. “Repair and Care” is seen as a project that has a lot of potential even, when not implemented in its entirety."

Team Statement: "We are fascinated by the complex nature of systems that define urban environments. Our cross-cultural learnings have taught us that safe, healthy and inclusive spaces are achieved through understanding a community’s strengths and needs. Repair + Care relied on a lengthy investigation into the defining characteristics of Gösting, which then informed the sensitive yet significant renewal strategy for the area. Centered around under-utilised watercourses, the proposal works to mitigate the future effects of climate change, add vibrancy and activation to the public realm and facilitate the sustainable movement of people, goods, knowledge, energy and waste through a network of self-regulating biodiversity corridors."