Shared Space - Tending Our Community through New Parklet

Welcome to Kulturschöpfer’s very first parklet, coming later this year! As you stroll down Kadiner Straße during the spring and summer seasons, you’ll notice a group of people gathered around a cozy little brown table in front of Kulturschöpfer’s open door. Laughter fills the air as they enjoy coffee or lunch together. Valentina, our coworking space manager, diligently tends to her plants, making sure they’re well-watered. And when the workday ends, you might even catch a glimpse of celebratory drinks as we toast to the week’s accomplishments.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Kulturschöpfer and xHain Hack&Makespace, we are creating a communal parklet that extends beyond our organization. This parklet, which will be on Kadiner Straße, serves as a meeting point for the entire community—a place where everyone can find moments of rest throughout the day, engage with one another, and contribute to the renewal and care of our beloved neighborhood.

This collaborative initiative not only strengthens the relationship between our neighboring organizations but also paves the way for future trust-building and collaborative projects. It’s an exciting time for us as we celebrate our 10th Birthday, honoring the community ties that have been the lifeblood of Kulturschöpfer over the past decade.

Parklets, the small public spaces created by converting curbside parking spots, have become a global phenomenon in urban design. Originating in San Francisco in 2005, when a group called Rebar transformed a parking space into a public park, parklets have since spread worldwide through initiatives like the “Pavement to Parks” program. These spaces offer numerous benefits, including enhancing the urban environment, promoting social interaction, and encouraging sustainable transportation.

Our parklet provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the neighborhood from a fresh perspective. By creatively and sustainably reimagining public space, we aim to inspire people to see their surroundings in a new light. Strategically located on Kadiner Straße, the parklet will bask in the warm afternoon and evening sun, beckoning everyone to enjoy its inviting atmosphere. Climbing plants, skillfully designed climbing aids by the xHain wood workshop, and meticulous attention to traffic safety contribute to the parklet’s charm. This initiative holds particular significance in our neighborhood, which lacks sufficient green spaces.

The expertise and fully equipped woodworking shop of Hack&Makespace will play a crucial role in both the creation and maintenance of the parklet. Additionally, the involvement of xHain Hack&Makespace with GreenKiez e.V. on the median strip of Bänschstraße has provided valuable urban gardening competence. With this collective knowledge and experience, we assure you that the parklet will be thoughtfully constructed, well-maintained, and a sustainable asset to our community.

In conclusion, our parklet represents more than just a physical space. It promotes rest in a work environment, encourages engagement within the neighborhood—a core value of Kulturschöpfer—and strengthens the ties that bind our community. As we embark on this new chapter, we invite you to join us, experience the parklet’s transformative power, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of our community.