Action Gateshead by School of APL, Newcastle University

ISBN: 978-0-7017-0248-9

ACTION!

Engaging residents with their outdoor space through temporary practice

ACTION! Engaging residents with their outdoor space through temporar y practice

A research project focusing on the outdoor space of 3 social housing blocks in Gateshead (UK ) led by D aniel Mallo and Armelle Tardiveau together with Mark Greenhalgh, Cara Lund, Amy Linford and Michael Simpson

Acknowledgements Daniel Mallo and Armelle Tardiveau would like

We would also like to thank Gina Barron for

to express their deep thanks to architec ture

her enthusiasm and suppor t of the projec t,

students Mark Greenhalgh, Cara Lund, Amy

par ticularly in bridging with the residents, and

Linford

R ichard Finlow for enabling this initiative to

and

M ichael

Simpson,

for

their

exceptional and proac tive input in this Ac tion

take shape in its full deployment.

Research. Finally, the curiosity and trust granted by the We would also like to thank the staff at the

3Ps residents is to be commended, they are

School of Architec ture, Planning and Landscape

rightly proud of their estate and we renew our

commitment to enable them to materialise their

Newcastle

University

whose

sustained

suppor t and encouragements have enabled the Team to develop a projec t beyond our own expec tations, amongst them Steve Dudek , Sean Mallen, Rose Gilroy (Direc tor of Engagement), Konrad M iciuk iewicz, Peter Kellett and Anne Fr y. Fur thermore Steve Rowar th of Fine Ar ts and Chandra Vemur y in the School of Civil Engineering

and

Geosciences

have

offered

their invaluable exper tise for the design and construc tion of the temporar y struc ture. Many other students demonstrated a true interest in the projec t and ac tively par ticipated, amongst them Andy Morrison who filmed and edited the videos and James Longfield who took par t in most of the Ac tions as well as Cassandra Walker, Aly Sabaa and M ishari Ali. They demonstrate a keen interest in live and engagement projec ts that the School of Architec ture, Planning and Landscape is committed to develop.

wish for a community space.

3 7 27 44 47 51 63 66 71 74 82 88 97 100 102 119 120 128

Ack nowledgements I ntroduc tion Ac tion #1: The Garden of Urban Delights I n Dialogue with... #1 Conversation #1: Excitement and Reser ve Ac tion #2: Bring a Mug, Take a Frame Conversation #2: An Unexpec ted Ac tor Conversation #3: Shif ting from You to We Conversation #4: Learning the Lingo of Bingo Conversation #5: Bingo is Back in Ac tion Conversation #6: I n the Bingo Swing Ac tion #3: A Spring into Ac tion Ac tion #4: Health and Safety in Ac tion I n Dialogue with... #2 Ac tion #5: Back in Ac tion Shif ts How to... Put up the Pavilion References

This book presents an ac tion research projec t carried out between Autumn 2010 and Winter 2011 in the open space between three socialhousing blocks in Gateshead, in the Nor thEast of England, with a view to demonstrate how spatial quality can emerge by means of temporar y inter ventions bringing about mental and physical appropriation. I n the contex t of the disused outdoor space of a Housing Estate, this research seeks to answer the question of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;whose space is it?â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, unear th new meanings and uses from which emerges a new collec tive use and memor y. I t also establishes the agenc y of space in altering power and institutional relationships. The a

projec t research

was

funded

platform

development

methodologies

SPINDUS,

focusing

planning assess,

and

the

design

evaluate

and

implement spatial quality. The Engagement Committee at the School of Architec ture, Planning

and

Landscape,

Newcastle

University, also made this projec t possible, granting fur ther funding.

introduction 6

Projec t background The research star ted as a one -week intensive projec t, whose objec tive was to reveal if the residents of three social housing blocks in Gateshead would come outside and enjoy their

apparently

normally

unused

grassed

outdoor space. The space was transformed one af ternoon in an outdoor living room where tea and cake could be enjoyed. A video can be seen on: h t t p : / / w w w. yo u t u b e. co m / w a tc h ? v = h O kTk E V G VdQ&feature=plcp The space had been identified with the suppor t of the council as the research intended to address unused or disused space and its relation to the nearby and potential users of the space. This

projec t

was

facilitated

and

carried

out by a collec tive of four postgraduate architec ture students at Newcastle University : Mark Greenhalgh, Amy Linford, Cara Lund, and M ichael Simpson, together with Daniel Mallo and Armelle Tardiveau, prac titioners in architec ture and urban design (SPINDUS stakeholders) and lec turers in architec ture at Newcastle University.

Urban contex t This projec t focuses on the open space in

Central Gateshead is ranked by the governmental

between and around three Social Housing Blocks

O ffice for National Statistics as one of the ‘most

called Prior y Cour t, Park Cour t and Peareth Cour t

deprived’ areas in the UK . While the area is

and k nown locally as the “3Ps”.

undergoing major change with the construc tion of a new commercial complex including housing

Built in the 1950s, the eight storey blocks are sited on the edge of Central Gateshead and are

for students, until now it has lacked any green

strangled between an elevated bypass (built less

areas such as parks or outdoor meeting spaces.

Tyne and Wear

Newcastle

Gateshead

Bridges

North Tyneside South Tyneside

3p’s

Sunderland

than 6 meters away) and the back of the H igh Street. This urban contex t makes the 3 Blocks an isolated pocket, disconnec ted from the town centre, which is but a stone’s throw away.

Tesco Store

Elevated bypass

Priory Court

Public path leading to pedestrian subway

New commercial and residential development

Park Court High Street

Pereath Court

Bus and Metro Interchange 10

Physical space

Socio - economic contex t

The presence of green space is a rarity in central

H igh Street rather than a main thoroughfare: it

The area is ranked by the governmental O ffice

The rent residents pay in the blocks is relative

Gateshead. This grassed open space is separated

ser vices the H igh street shops for deliveries and

for National Statistics as ‘most deprived’. The

to income and ranges from £6 per week up to

from the main public thoroughfare by low, open

clients who use the taxi-rank located along the

2010 I ndices of Deprivation indicate that this

£25 per week . [Source: The Gateshead Housing

fences and shrubs, with paved paths leading to

boundar y of the estate. Both taxis and deliveries

postcode area is at the bottom of the rank of

Company]

the entrances of the blocks. There are several

have been highlighted as a nuisance by the

income, employment and health deprivation and

tall trees that were planted in close proximity to

residents.

it is ver y disadvantaged in terms of education,

I n terms of education, only 44 to 56% of pupils

with high crime rates. The only parameters

achieve a GCSE (General Cer tificate of Secondar y

where the area is above the bottom rank ing are

Education) compared to 67-81% average in

barriers to housing and living environment.

England. [Source: O ffice for National Statistics]

the flyover and along the access street. Environmental conditions A public footpath crosses the space transversally,

The

1970’s

planning

Central

Gateshead

disconnec ting Prior y Cour t from Park and Peareth

brought to the area a flyover: an elevated four

Cour t. This footpath leads to a pedestrian subway

lane bypass road built less than six metres away

Most residents in the area live on state benefits

For more information:

crossing the flyover/ elevated bypass. Adjacent

from the Housing Blocks. Due to this physical

/ state suppor t. The O ffice for National Statistics

http://w w w.gatesheadhousing.co.uk/

to this is the Dav y Roll Company “a roll mak ing

barrier and the height of the Housing Blocks

also indicates that 40% of residents claim

http://w w w.statistics.gov.uk/

facility for producing cast rolls in steel and iron”

(eight storeys), the wind blowing from the East is

work ing age benefit, 13% job seek ing allowance

http://w w w.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/

established in the 1920s, which operates 24

channelled through the flyover and the volume

and 19% live on incapacity benefits. [Source:

[accessed 1 Nov 2012]

hours a day.

of the blocks accelerates it. This wind produces

O ffice for National Statistics]

thermal discomfor t in the area even on sunny From a physical perspec tive the grass area offers

warm days. Any inter vention in this open space

potential for a great variety of uses. However,

will have to address this issue.

the ground floor flats windows look onto the space; therefore any use of the space will have

Noise discomfor t from the nearby flyover was

to guarantee privac y.

assumed as an impor tant fac tor at the inception of the projec t, yet residents have confirmed that

The housing blocks are accessed by Hopper

the noise does not constitute a hindrance to the

Street, which can be classified as the back of the

use of the grass area.

Current use of the space Beyond the limited provision of car park ing at the foot of each block , the communal grass area surrounding the three housing blocks is ar ticulated by paths leading to the entrance of each block . The grass area has no benches or any other type of street furniture suggesting that the residents are not provided with the oppor tunity to appropriate the space and there is no facility in any of the buildings for community use..

The users of the space

Regulation of the space the

According to the most recent data, the residents

organisation responsible for the day-to - day

constitute an ethnically homogenous group

management of the three Housing Blocks. The

(out of the 145 residents, 88% are White British)

grass area is restric ted to a circulation space,

while 49% of the residents are over the age of

alongside CC T V cameras and signs banning

60. [Source: The Gateshead Housing Company]

The

Gateshead

Housing

Company

C h i l d re n use d to p l ay o ut h ere u n t i l w i n d o w s sta rte d to g et b r o k e n

ball games, displayed ex tensively in the most obvious areas.

Families with children under 16 are not normally

Given that the design of these housing blocks

housed in the Estate as high rises are not

include flats on the ground floor, The Gateshead

considered as suitable accommodation, due to

Housing Company has to ensure that this grass

potential noise issues and lack of private garden

area is not subjec t to complaints from the

space.

ground floor residents.

The adjacent drawing highlights wishes and

Although antisocial behaviour is recorded as

memories from residents related to the space:

low in this estate, residents read this space as

they include having a patch on the grass to grow

a theatre of antisocial behaviour: the estate is

vegetables or recalling that some residents used

accessed via Hopper Street which ac ts as the

to take out chairs for a chat and that children

back of the High Street, which itself is lined with

used to play there until windows got broken.

i Â´ d l i k e to g r o w m y o w n v e g eta b l e patc h

amenities including a pub, a betting office and the local job centre. I n addition to this, a taxi rank located along the boundar y of the estate on Hopper Street is highly used by pub users and shoppers.

s o m e pe o p l e put a s o fa o n t h e g r a ss a n d s at t h ere a l l day

Methods: unstruc tured conversations

Temporar y ac tions: new uses of the space

Appreciative enquir y

The projec t introduced new uses in the space

The

through temporar y ac tions initially capitalising

with the residents informing each ac tion. This

residents and create a platform for social

upon

imagined

prac tice ‘would deal with architec ture -related

exchange were facilitated through unstruc tured

recollec tions to enable residents to reclaim

ac tivities, rather than architec ture -specific ones,

conversations occurring within the contex t of

the dormant space in their imaginations and

which would consider architec ture in terms of its

the ac tions (including tea par ties on the open

appropriate and transform it.

specific means (tool, competences, processes)

space and bingo in the community hall).

Temporar y ac tions draw from the ever yday life in

rather than its specific ends (construc tion and

The method promotes a role for the residents

order to provide a spatial and habitual continuity

buildings)’. (Petrescu, D, 2007)

as ‘ac tive interpreters’ of the ac tions (R ancière

from private living room space to outdoor

Borrowing

from

communal space. They enable exploration of ‘the

approach,

the

past,

memories

and

ac tivities

emerged

from

conversations

Methods

build

relationship

with

the

enquir y

2009) aiming at challenging the gap between

‘peak

exper ts and non- exper ts. I n this regard, the

relationship between social ac tions and physical

experiences and successes of the past ’ and

ac tions are mere platforms, in which outcome

space in order to shif t existing conceptions

locates ‘the energy for change in sources of

and effec t cannot be anticipated, providing

regarding specific subjec tivities and alter the

personal and collec tive motivation’. […] ‘ To

the oppor tunity for par ticipants to appropriate

places through which they were produced’

the ex tent that memor y and the construc tion

the ‘stor y ’ and make it their own ‘stor y ’. ‘An

(Stratford H, Petrescu D, Petcou C, 2008).

of ever yday reality offer hope and meaning,

emancipated community is a community of

The aim is to create both space and community,

people tend to move in that direc tion’ (Mathie

narrators and translators’.

to encourage residents from being users to

A, Cunningham G, 2003).

appreciative

projec t

focuses

becoming citizens: a shif t from simply attending

Recalling ac tions: use of video

an event to ac tively generating an ac tion

These positive moments were recorded and

eliciting fric tion, negotiation, together with fun

turned into shor t videos which were shown at

and empowerment (Mathie A., Cunningham G.,

the beginning of each conversation or ac tion;

2003).

they erased the time lapsed between one ac tion

Three key ac tors are involved with various

and the nex t, recaptured the positive spirit

degrees at different moments throughout the

and would operate micro -steps either amongst

projec t: the housing company who manage the

the residents or in relation to the space. The

estate, the residents together with caretakers

laughter these videos generated together with

(mediating

the positive image of the residents themselves

between

residents

and

housing

fuelled the projec t.

company) and the facilitators of this process. With a few exceptions, the core group of residents

Gateshead Ac tion Oc tober 2010 http://w w w.youtube.com/watch?v=hOkTkEVGVdQ

engaging in ac tions belong to the 60 and above group who are amongst the most stable

Gateshead Ac tion March 2011 http://w w w.youtube.com/watch?v=dXmK1n35bac

residents. This group totals 72 residents and is homogeneous in terms of ethnic and socio -

Gateshead Ac tion November 2011 http://w w w.youtube.com/watch?v=ukCvnVlK1jw

economic background as well as the length of time they have lived in the estate. The number of par ticipants who took par t in the ac tions (up to 30) constitutes a third of the core group. 20

How to read this book: The book follows the chronological process of this Ac tion Research. The graphic signs are intended to provide fur ther information on each Ac tion and Conversation. Reflec tion

Preparation

Conversation

These pie char ts tell you about the break down of time spent.

‘Glossar y Terms’: Keep a look out for

F i n d res i d e n ts’ q u otes i n h ere

these, they give you information on the different vocabular y used.

This drawing is a record of the (fic tional) names of the residents who took par t to the Ac tions and Conversations, as well as where they live.

These provide insight on the experience of the Team and the Action process

T hese highlight key points from the text Flyer through letter box

Word of mouth

E-mail

Phone call

Poster

The highlighted icons tell you about the means of communication used to contac t the residents.

The projec t with the 3Ps began in Oc tober 2010 with a one -week intensive student projec t culminating in an Ac tion, which focused on the spatial potential of the grassed area of the estate.

Garden of urban Delights 26

Being

unfamiliar

with

the

estate,

the

students mapped aspec ts of the estate including

‘proximity ’,

‘soundscape’

and

C R E AT E A S E N S E O F O CC A S I O N F O R A MOMENT OF SHARING

‘secret gardens of pleasure’. This allowed the expedient creation of a rich, experiential map of the area surrounding the 3Ps. Based on the evidence gathered, small-scale, interac tive installations and larger ac tions were suggested with view to ac tivate the

“It was really useful having a group

space.

discussion before the event about things we could say if residents asked

Objec ts whose placement was carefully

what we were doing and where we were

considered included: a table to ser ve tea

from. This meant ever yone was on the

and cake, a sound-screen installation to

same page ever yone knows their roles

assess the impac t of the nearby flyover

so that residents weren’t given mixed

on the residents’ lives, framed historical

messages.”

photographs of Gateshead Town Centre, and footballs questioning the multitude of rules signalled throughout the estate. I n addition, objec ts found around the estate were displayed on plinths in the grass

“ T h e e v e n t h a d re a l ly b r o u g h t a p o s i t i v e f ee l to t h e space ”

challenging residents’ perceptions of both the local environment as well as perceived unwillingness to use the green space.

3Ps resident

AC tions were intended to activate the space

‘Acivate’: To bring about animation to a site through an Ac tion, and to build

The ac tion was realised within limited

up momentum of energy through

means and the design of the space was

par ticipation.

intended to engender a sense of occasion and allowed for a moment of sharing.

Residents were invited through a flyer posted

used in the past and how it is underused now.

in their letterbox: an unusual privilege for the

The sound-screen turned into a notice board,

team, allowed by the caretakers. The visual

where people lef t their memories, of both the

presence of the Ac tion was fur ther enhanced by

par ty and the space, on luggage tags. Contrar y

the large garlands of helium-filled balloons and

to our original plan the tea set and seating were

the number of students.

relocated to the paved area.

Many of the residents enquired about the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intentions and commented on how nice it was that the space was being used. Approximately 20 residents took par t in the Ac tion. One of the Reflec tion

students was invited into a resident â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flat on the fif th floor of Park Cour t to view the Ac tion from above.

Ac tion

The historical photographs of Gateshead Town Centre were an excellent talk ing point, especially with

long-term

residents

who

reminisced

about the creation of the estate and distant

Preparation

summers outside, on deck chairs. This enabled conversations about how the space had been

the paved area was preferred over the wet grass

a lawn mower cutting a path to mark the end of the Ac tion

Umbrellas were hung on trees to be taken home by residents

I ntended plan

Use plan

Approximately 20 residents attended despite the cold weather! About half the people who

There was a sense of interest and also

came said they k new about the ac tion thanks to

of being looked at through windows,

the flyer. There was a general excitement about

meaning

something happening in their “garden”, which

engaging but not par ticipating.

that

some

people

were

star ted conversations about how the space is used. Among some of the residents, there was a mistakenly held belief that we were work ing on behalf of the Council and were proposing specific changes to the space; but the overriding sense

“H av i n g t h e c h i n a m a k es i t f ee l re a l ly spec i a l”

from the residents was one of both curiosity and enjoyment.

3Ps resident

“ We created curiosit y around the event right from the flyers right through to the Action day itself.”

Throughout

Ac tion

residents

were asked to leave their thoughts about the day on brown paper luggage tags, which were then tied onto the sound-screen. This made it an interac tive and par ticipative ac tivity.

With

video

it ’s

romanticising

difficult

about

the

avoid Ac tion.

However, when we showed the video to the residents later on, we became aware

that

they

enjoyed

seeing

themselves sharing a positive moment in their garden.

“IT WAS NICE TO SEE ALL THE OLD PHOTOS OF GATESHEAD” 40

A few ac tive residents in the estate gave

presentation of the refreshments on ornate and

insightful comments about how the use of the

delicate china, emphasising the amount of care

space had changed over time. The caretakers

and effor t that had gone into the Ac tion and

played an instrumental role in the ac tion: they

added to the sense of occasion.

Some residents displayed apprehension

provided access to elec tricity while ensuring

about walking on the grassed area and

only residents of the block could access it. They

many stayed on the paved area. The

are also familiar faces for the residents and

lack of ownership over the grassed

shared their own perspec tives on the space.

area may have been the reason, as well

They all seemed potentially meaningful ac tors

as restrictive policies over the space.

for future ac tions.

Residents

Some designed elements of the “Garden of

space was barely used, especially in

Urban Delights” were more successful than

Autumn and Winter when the grassed

others; some changed in purpose throughout

area becomes muddy. This is true to

the course of the day. The ser ving of tea was a

some ex tent throughout England, with

definite attrac tion, par tly because it occurred at

people staying indoors, so it is perhaps

the peripher y of the Ac tion, on the paved and

surprising that 20 residents par ticipated.

“ I wa s b o r n i n t h e m i d d l e b lo c k …w e use d to p l ay h ere s o i t ’s g re at to see s o m et h i n g h a ppe n i n g.”

sheltered area, enabling less-mobile residents to take par t. I t also attrac ted people who were just passing by. This was enhanced by the deliberate

3Ps resident

expressed

that

the

green

4 November 2010

IN DIALOGUE WITH... #1

Gateshead Civic Centre

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Enableâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;: Allows involvement and empowerment

A presentation was made to both to the Gateshead Housing Company and Gateshead Council. The Council helped with the one week intensive student projec t in identifying a suitable site for the projec t. The video presentation conveyed the playfulness, creativity, and energy of the work collec tively produced. The video expresses the quick ly deployable, spontaneous, and exciting nature of the Ac tion.

P L AY F U L N E S S, C R E AT I V I T Y A N D E N E R G Y O F T H E AC T I O N

The presentation was well received by the Council who made positive comments about the imaginative, yet prac tical approach that the projec t had taken. There was a desire to see more live projec ts run in collaboration with the Council, and similar workshops that brought about numerous and rich ideas. The Council expressed an interest in a continuation of the projec t to realise some of the ideas in prac tice.

interest in a continuation of the project 44

Subsequent

the

meeting

with

The

Gateshead Housing Company and Gateshead Council, Conversation #1 with the residents provided an oppor tunity to receive feedback on Ac tion #1.

excitement and reserve 46

that

nice to see how it used to be and remember past

the space is misused at present and that due

times. When the Team explained the idea behind

to cer tain fac tors it could not be used in an

the sound-screen was to challenge noise from

enjoyable way : worries about some residents

the flyover the residents said that this was not

not using the space correc tly, throwing rubbish

a problem for them but the trees affec ting the

out of their windows into the space, homeless

light was more of an issue. The tea par ty theme

people using the space at night and other

was well received as it gave residents a chance

undesirables hanging around meant that the

to chat and felt like a special occasion. A date

green space wasn’t being used and was moreover

for another meeting involving a broader group

seen as negative.

of residents was agreed with Beatrice who also

excitement

and

energy,

they

stressed

offered to inform and invite the residents herself. Upon

“ We use d to h av e a k i d s p l ayg r o u n d b ut i t g ot ta k e n away ”

reflec tion,

problems,

mak ing

the

residents

the

use

focused the

space

unimaginable. Desires to use the space for cer tain ac tivities, or at all, were not mentioned.

Denise, 3Ps resident

The residents’ trust of the Housing Company and the Council seemed uncer tain; the same was felt as to our motives and what we could achieve in

The main aim of Conversation #1 was to gain

The Ac tion Team met with Beatrice, a resident

insight into the residents’ perceptions of the

who had expressed an interest during Ac tion

grassed area and their experience of Ac tion #1.

#1 to engage with the Team, and she brought

The Ac tion Team agreed beforehand that the

another resident, Denise, who lives in the same

conversation would be lef t unstruc tured and

block as her; both are frequent attendees of the

aim to discover residents’ desires for the space.

meetings that take place between The Gateshead

The conversation took place on Monday 15th

Housing Company and the 3P ’s residents.

November 2010 in Trinity Community Centre,

the green space. Denise recalled that a nearby space, adjacent to Prior y Cour t, used to be a children’s playground when the Housing Company allowed children

T H E U S E O F T H E S PAC E S E E M E D TO B E U N I M AG I N A B L E

to live in the blocks. She pointed out that this space was taken from them and is now not used for anything. This focused the conversation on the relationship between residents and The

a familiar and neutral space for the residents, located across the road from the 3P ’s.

We felt it was impor tant to engage with

Gateshead Housing Company, highlighting the

residents who had shown an interest in

disappointment felt by the residents that their

Action #1, with the hope to develop a

desires were not taken on board as much as

core group of active residents.

expec ted.

Conversation

Preparation The residents shared what they liked and disliked,

T H E CO M M U N I T Y C E N T R E offers a familiar and neutral space

Reflec tion

or didn’t understand in Ac tion #1. Denise and The conversation revolved around the green space and the way residents perceive it. While both agreed that Ac tion #1 brought a lot of 48

Beatrice stated that they didn’t understand the plinths and objec ts displayed but that they enjoyed the old photos of Gateshead as it was 49

bring a mug take a frame Building on the momentum of Ac tion #1, Ac tion #2 seeked to encourage resident par ticipation

through

ask ing

them

contribute to some of the organisation on the day.

The aim of Ac tion #2 was to gain fur ther

The screen shots were intended to remind

understanding of the green space and its

residents of the collec tive experience of Ac tion

relationship

This

#1 and establish a positive memor y of the space.

Ac tion tested a new location (the edge of the

Residents were invited to write on luggage tags

grassed area) as residents had previously shown

their comments and past memories of the green

reluc tance to move away from the path.

space as well as the frame number they took

with

the

3Psâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

residents.

with them. During this Ac tion, the Ac tion #1 video was shown to residents in order to recall the positive atmosphere created and the potential for change. Ac tive par ticipation was sought by ask ing residents to bring a mug in exchange for a framed screen shot of the video. The Team brought along some china cups in case residents didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel comfor table bringing a mug or cup.

Residents were invited to the Ac tion by a flyer posted through their door. Posters were put up

â&#x20AC;&#x153; D o yo u h av e a p i cture o f m e ?â&#x20AC;?

in the communal area of each block as well as at the Community Centre. Also, the flyer was

Alfred, 3Ps resident

emailed to local Councillors and The Gateshead Housing Company inviting them to the Ac tion.

P O S T E R S W E R E P U T U P AT the community centre I N F O R M I N G A B O U T T H E AC T I O N

The flyer is the first point of contact of an Action with the residents. They graphically convey the theme of the Action, in this case the tea par t y and sense of occasion.

Ac tion #2 introduced local Councillors and new

the remaining framed screen shots in his flat to

residents, amongst them Mar tha, who lives on

be picked up the following day.

the ground floor of Park Cour t with windows Although these may seem like small ac tions,

look ing direc tly onto the green space.

they show an incremental change and building of trust between the Team and residents.

The day of the Ac tion saw torrential rain. A few residents spoke to the Team while setting up the space and expressed their disappointment over the weather as they had been talk ing about the

S MA L L AC T I O N S S AW A N I N C R E M E N TA L C H A N G E

tea par ty during the week . The residents were keen to look at the photos. Through the rain the parasols gave a bright impression and again a sense of curiosity. Despite weather conditions, a surprising level of par ticipation from residents was evident. Mar tha let the Team use the power in her flat for

I ntended plan

the laptop to show the video, Alfred brought a mug and Elliott offered to store the screen with

Parasols were gathered together to shelter from the rain

Use plan

Upon reflec tion, the use of the path for this Ac tion

facilitated

par ticipation

despite

the

“I spoke to some

weather and also provided accessibility to

ladies earlier and

residents with reduced mobility. However, this meant that the screen with the framed photos

they said they were

and the parasols blocked the enjoyable view of the grassed area even in bad weather. I t was

excited ABOUT today.

impor tant to test this spatial configuration as a

unfortunately I think

way in which to gauge residents reac tions to the use of the space.

they might HAVE beEN put off by the weather”

I t was important to test A N E W spatial configuration

Beatrice, 3Ps resident

Subsequent to Ac tion #2, we became aware of the residents’ various levels of engagement: some were really ac tive and willing to be involved in the Ac tions, others were happy to join in but not lead. The rest either had no interest or desire

Reflec tion

to engage or simply looked down at the Ac tion from their flat or while passing by.

Ac tion

Residents were invited to leave their thoughts on tags.

Preparation

an unexpected actor A fur ther meeting with residents allowed for discussion about possible future Ac tions. Conversation #2 introduced an unexpec ted ac tor who would prove to play a key role in the process.

Trinity

She was ver y positive about Ac tion #1, wanted to

Community Centre offered the venue for a

see the video we had produced, and expressed

meeting with the 3Ps residents. The day and

her “deep interest with ar t, architec ture and the

time had been discussed with Beatrice to suit

urban development of Gateshead”.

“They asked me a b o ut t h e f e n c i n g, t h at ’s n o w o uts i d e t h e b lo c k s, b ut I j ust d i d n’ t k n o w w h at t h e y wa n te d m e to s ay ”

Saturday

18th

December

2010,

most of the residents she believed might be

“D E E P IN T E R E S T WI T H a rt, a rc h i tecture a n d t h e ur b a n d e v e lo pm e n t o f G ates h e a d ”

Beatrice, 3Ps resident

G abrielle was very positive and willing to give her support

interested. The Ac tion Team aimed to focus on the positive memories and times in which the space was used and also envisage a future for the space together.

Gabrielle, suppor t worker The conversation was then direc ted to possible fur ther Ac tions in the green space. While

P ositive memories and times in which the space was used more Reflec tion

Beatrice remained sceptical about what could be achieved in the space and how to change residents’ views of the area, Gabrielle was keen

Preparation

to pick up the positive energy of the Team and

Conversation

Beatrice was the only resident who came to this

willing to give her suppor t to the projec t. She

meeting. She informed us that residents who

offered space to put up flyers and posters and

might be interested in discussing the green

agreed to the Team using the water facilities at

space had been informed of the conversation

the Community Centre in the future.

but turned out to be unavailable. While talk ing to Beatrice, she provided some insight into the way in which residents are asked about their opinions and desires in relation to the estate. She mentioned that residents had been consulted with regards to the ex ternal works around the 3Ps and in par ticular the design for the fence. She expressed that the direc tness and manner in which they had been asked meant that it was uncomfor table because she felt like she didn’t k now what they wanted ‘Ac tor ’: This refers to the different

her to say.

users of the green space. Ac tors can Conversation #2 introduced Gabrielle, who is

be either passive or ac tive in relation

familiar with many residents as she works as

to their involvement in the Ac tions or

a suppor t officer managing the Community

with the green space in general.

Centre. This makes her an impor tant new ac tor. 64

shifting from ‘you’ to ‘we’ Residents

were

invited

the

Trinity

Community Centre for Conversation #3 with view to envisage the green area as a shared space.

I t was the first time that residents were informed

attended, used “we”, referring to all ac tors

of a Conversation through a flyer. Also the focus

involved, rather than “you”, the Ac tion Team as

of the Conversation was made explicit including

organisers. Beatrice said, “ We are going to star t

a photograph of the grassed area on the flyer.

think ing of what we can do in the grassed area, so that later we do that on our own”.

A map of the grassed area was brought, however the residents felt uncomfor table with it, yet they wrote on it which flat they lived in and at

“ We a re g o i n g to sta rt t h i n k i n g o f w h at w e c a n d o i n t h e g r a ss a re a”

what number. The video of Ac tion #1 was shown and residents enjoyed it a great deal, especially when they could see themselves and they asked

Beatrice, 3Ps resident

to play it again. The video triggered laughter, memories of the past and imagination for the future of the space.

Preparation Reflec tion

A significant shif t occurred when Beatrice, summing up the conversation to all who had

Conversation

learning the lingo of bingo Residents mentioned playing bingo in the past, a game which they had self- organised and

played

the Trinity

Community

Centre. The aim of Conversation #4 was to learn from the residents how they had played it and how it could be played again with the Ac tion Team as facilitators.

The Community Centre hosted Conversation

the residents and the Team.

#4. I nvitations were sent to the residents who

As well as describing the logistics of the Bingo

par ticipated in Conversation #3.

games,

the

residents

elaborated

upon

the

wider benefits generated by the collec tive The residents gave a detailed and in- depth

engagement, including day trips funded by the

account of customs and cour tesies that were

bingo donations. I n the past, Sally, a long-term

par ticular to their games of Bingo, for example

resident, used to organise and run the Bingo

typical prizes that would be won, the suggested

herself. She was no longer able to do so, but

donation amount to play, and the number of

provided advice about how the ac tivity could be

games usually played. The residents revealed

run.

that the prizes were donated collec tively by the residents playing and also described the setup

The

of the space. Joint ideas about mak ing the game

residents had an exper tise, which they were

more accessible, for example large number

happy to share with the Ac tion Team for future

cards, came about through a conversation that

games. This was a collec tive learning process we

involved more collaborative think ing between

hoped to sustain.

Reflec tion

Preparation

demonstrated

that

the

â&#x20AC;&#x153; I use d to lo v e B i n g o. We use d to h av e i t r i g h t h ere i n t h e co m m u n i t y ce n treâ&#x20AC;? Sally, 3Ps resident

Conversation

bingo is back in action Conversation #5 uses Bingo as a ac tivity to

facilitate

informal

and

unstruc tured

conversations.

Flyers were posted through ever y resident ’s door and posters were put up in the lif t and other communal areas. Posters were also put up in the Trinity Community Centre.

“aye 55, 55 ye a rs i ’ v e l i v e d t h ere!”

Conversation #5 revolved around a familiar ac tivity facilitating a much more diverse and

Betty, 3Ps resident

inclusive dialogue with residents discussing how long they had lived in Gateshead and where they used to live. The setting and timeframe meant that an informal discussion could be held over a longer period of time.

The Bingo calls we used were enjoyed by all as ever yone joined in to guess

Reflec tion

what number the call was related

Preparation

to adding to the fun of the game. Residents taught us why some calls were used. Conversation

The success of the first video as a tool for both the residents and the Council encouraged us to be systematic with this media. The bingo video documents a collective experience and a fun memor y.

The Bingo introduced a new objec t: a tray,

I t was decided that following the success of

which had a dual purpose. Firstly to carr y boxes

this Bingo and the conversation it fostered that

containing the bingo k it for each par ticipant;

another one would be held. O ver the bingo game,

secondly its design allowed for various uses,

much more interac tion took place between

but most impor tantly, provided continuity with

residents. This allowed the Ac tion Team to step

the objec ts par ticipating in future Ac tions and

back as residents became more comfor table

Conversations

engaging in discussions together in a relaxed

(both

inside

the

Community

atmosphere.

Centre and outside on the grassed area). A genuine engagement with the ac tivity was obser ved; residents involved themselves by suggesting improvements such as raising the cost of playing from 50p to £1 and about how specific

“ It ’s n i ce to see yo u a l l ag a i n”

numbers should be called. Encouragement was given to holding another Bingo.

Betty, 3Ps resident

“ T h at ’s t h e f i rst t i m e i ’ v e w o n a ny t h i n g i n m y l i f e” Alfred, 3Ps resident

‘Bingo’: A game involving a group of players who mark off numbers on a sheet as they are drawn randomly by a caller. Ways to win are by getting a line, or by getting all the numbers on the sheet where the player shouts “house!” 80

Conversation #6 was facilitated by another Bingo game in order to broach the topic with residents of moving back outside into the green space.

in the bingo swing 82

Held in the Community Centre, Conversation #6

The familiarity of residents with each other

saw two new residents par ticipating in the Bingo

was reinforced by the familiarity of the objec ts

game: Pam and Lilian. As with the previous Bingo

par ticipating

game

engaged

holding the tea set which was designed for

while playing and the par ticipation of Gabrielle

the previous Bingo session was used again and

(suppor t worker at the Community Centre) made

prizes comprised a 3Ps stamped tea towel and

the residents feel even more relaxed and open

crocker y. The stamped tea-towel with the 3Ps

as she was familiar with a few of them.

logo designed for the occasion prompted Sally

session,

conversations

were

the

tea

theme:

the

tray

to explain that she had coined the name “3Ps”. Residents suggested ideas for the prizes on the same tea theme for the nex t Bingo session.

Reflec tion

Preparation

“aye. 3 ps i c a m e up w i t h t h at n a m e ” Sally, 3Ps resident

Conversation

Before star ting the Bingo, we looked at the grassed area and noticed a line of daffodils had

â&#x20AC;&#x153; w h at d o w e g et n e x t t i m e to a d d to t h e set ?â&#x20AC;?

been planted. When we asked the residents, Alfred suggested that they all thought the

Alfred, 3Ps resident

Ac tion Team had planted them.

A L F R E D S U G G E S T E D T H AT T H E AC T I O N T E A M H A D P L A N T E D T H E DA F F O D I L S With

all

Action

Team

members

The Ac tion Team was aware that the Community

engaged with running the Bingo, video

Centre

management

recording was inconsistent. There was

procedure and that it would be less easily

a delicate balance to be found bet ween

accessible to residents. I n addition, Gabrielle

having sufficient people to run and

was to be moved to another site. I t was agreed

record the event.

would

soon

change

that the nex t Ac tion or Conversation had to take place outside the Community Centre in order to build upon the daffodils initiative and the positive atmosphere that the Bingo had generated amongst the residents.

gabrielle joined us for the bingo and proved an excellent mediator

We found it interesting that not only did the residents not know who had planted the flowers but were assuming our involvement in relation to that space.

Ac tion #3 took place on the grassed area owing to the return of the good weather. The general excitement growing across the countr y in response to the Royal Wedding seemed like a good oppor tunity to re engage the core group of residents who had played Bingo with the green space.

a spring into action 88

The Ac tion Team gathered that residents had

day. The intention was to build upon the positive

held street par ties in the past along Hopper

collec tive recent experience with the residents

Street and felt that this could be used as a

as well as seed positive memories linked to the

source of inspiration as well as capitalising

space.

on the general feel of excitement across the countr y about the Royal Wedding. A “Garden Tea

Ac tion #3 turned out ver y differently from

Par ty ” was planned with a long table positioned

expec ted: drawing upon the Royal Wedding with

centrally in the green space so that people could

the banqueting table lined with a white table

sit along it, have a cup of tea, food, chat and be

cloth attrac ted fewer residents than usual.

re -introduced to the space on a glorious spring

Reflec tion

“aye. i ’ l l h e l p o ut. w h at d o yo u wa n t m e to d o ?” Keith, 3Ps resident Ac tion

Preparation

It was so windy on the day that the parasols were blowing across the grass and we had to peg the tablecloth to the table. However Keith gave us a hand in sor ting it out.

I ntended plan

I n parallel to this, the Ac tion Team became

ac tion themselves laying the first stones towards

aware that the wind between the two 8-storey

a community-led process of transformation of

blocks, channelled by the nearby flyover and

the space.

bringing the smell from the nearby fac tor y, made the environment unpleasant and affec ted

Drawing conclusions from this Ac tion, it became

the enjoyment of the green space much more

evident that basic shelter from the elements

than anticipated. Af ter Ac tion #2, this was now

would be required to facilitate subsequent

the second time that the weather conditions had

Ac tions

had an adverse effec t on Ac tions.

emphasise the qualities of the existing space

the

green

space.

This

would

and enable residents to perceive the potential of the space.

Keith, a young 3Ps resident representing the

Unexpec ted daffodils bloomed on site, changing layout

The direc tion of the table changed due to the wind

ver y small percentage of youth who live in the 3Ps, was always keen to engage with the Ac tion

K E I T Hâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S E N G AG E M E N T D E M O N S T R AT E D T H E T R U S T A N D CO N F I D E N C E ACQ U I R E D BY S O M E RESIDENTS

Team. He had par ticipated in most Ac tions and Conversations and had shared his keen interest in construc tion. That morning he was on site early and helped set up the tea table.

Parasols had to be taken down due to windy conditions

Use plan

Keithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engagement demonstrated the trust and confidence acquired by some residents to take 94

Ac tion #4 was a pivotal point for the projec t: the Team had designed a temporar y struc ture to shelter from the wind so that the grassed area could be enjoyed regardless of the weather conditions. For the first time The Gateshead Housing Company became ac tively involved.

HEALTH & SAFETY IN ACTION 96

Ac tion #4 saw a change in scale from objec ts

On the intended day of the Ac tion, we asked

to pavilion (a temporar y struc ture that would

the caretakers to provide us with access to

shelter from wind and light rain). The Gateshead

elec tricity. While they were happy to do so, they

Housing Company had been informed about

requested that we obtained permission from

each ac tion as the flyers posted to the residents

The Gateshead Housing Company. However,

were emailed to them. But for this ac tion, which

the permission could not be granted in time,

involved a larger infrastruc ture than usual, they

as The Gateshead Housing Company wanted

became ac tively involved.

to conduc t their own checks on the pavilion. Therefore the Ac tion was cancelled. Several residents

expressed

disappointment

and

par ticular Keith as well as Jim, the manager of

F R O M O B J E C T S TO PAV I L I O N : A CHANGE IN SCALE

the Community Centre, who had been ready on site to help set up the Ac tion.

The pavilion was intended to be located facing

Although the Action had to be cancelled,

the large paved area around Peareth Cour t, as

it marked the begining of an active

this was seen as a comfor table and safe area for

involvement by The Gateshead Company

residents during Ac tion #1. The pavilion had been

Company.

tested at Newcastle University and approved by a struc tural engineer and a construc tion consultant. A health and safety repor t was also filed for the School of Architec ture, Planning and Landscape to ensure the safety of the public and the Ac tion Team.

T H E PAV I L I O N H A D B E E N T E S T E D AT NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY

An Ac tion introducing the pavilion had been planned for which flyers were posted in the three blocks and posters in the communal areas and Community Centre. Local Councillors were also invited by email.

IN DIALOGUE WITH... #2

30 September 2011

APL General Risk Assessment

Gateshead Civic Centre

Assessed By

Date

ACTIVITY The design and construction of a temporary structure is part of a research project entitled: ‘Action Research’ - a project focusing on an unused grassed area around three Social Housing Blocks in Gateshead. This temporary structure will be deployed, enjoyed and folded up over the course of one day. The structure itself enables an informal event with the residents of the Housing Blocks; tea will be provided and a bingo game will be organised in the structure.

I n order to provide contex t to the pavilion and gain permission to use it for future Ac tions, a presentation was made to R ichard Finlow ( The Gateshead Housing Company) and Geoff

Page HAZARDS

PEOPLE AT RISK

CONTROL OF RISKS

1.Structural Integrity collapse or partial collapse of the structure

Staff, Students, Members of the public.

Structure designed and built in consultation with competent persons (Dr Steve Dudek + Steve Rowarth) to ensure structural integrity and stability. Structure assembled in accordance with the approved design and under supervision of APL staff (Armelle Tardiveau and Daniel Mallo). Final inspection of the design will be carried out by a Structural Engineer, Chandra Vermury. Taking down will be under staff supervision.

2.Manual Handling Lifting/moving paving slabs +steel frames

Staff, Students

PPE Required: Steel toe capped boots, leather work gloves and high visibility vests. First aid kit will be available Work will be carried out under the supervision of APL staff. Steel frames must be handled/ transported in their component parts i.e. 2 end frames to be un-bolted. Frames to be moved by sufficient number of people (reflecting individual capacity) under guidance of staff member. Paving slabs to be lifted/moved by sufficient number of people (reflecting individual capacity) under guidance of staff member. Lifting equipment in the form of sack and flatbed trolleys to be used where appropriate.

3. Work at Height Assembly of structure

Staff, Students

Step ladders to be used for part of structure assembly. Class 1 step ladders to be used. Staff will ensure that step ladders will be used in accordance with HSE guidance – as below. Set-up • Pre-use check (no broken parts) • Ensure there is space to fully open • Ground should be firm and level

This project is carried out by APL staff Armelle Tardiveau and Daniel Mallo together with 4 students in architecture within the frame of Linked Research module (Amy Linford, Cara Lund, Michael Simpson and Mark Greenhalgh).

Under wood (Gateshead Council); it aimed to provide an over view of the positive momentum gathered with the residents over the past 12 months, and also to give information on the

The structural test of the structure will take place at the University in the Claremont Quad (1 and 2 August 2011) and the event in Gateshead will take place on Wednesday 3 August 2011.

health and safety aspec ts of the proposed pavilion. Bingo videos, rained and winded Ac tions were

Stepladders in use • Short duration of work (max 30 mins) • Light work (up to 10 kg) • Do not work off the top three steps unless you have a safe handhold on the steps. • Avoid side on working Do not overreach – make sure your belt buckle (navel) stays within the stiles and keep both feet on the same rung throughout the task.

played and construc tion drawings of the pavilion were shown. The Ac tion Team experienced once more the benefit of videos as a media accessible to all. As with the first presentation, the projec t was well received again: R ichard Finlow stated his

4. Electrical /Mechanical Use of inflator air pump

Staff, Students

5. Personal Security

Staff, Students

6. Transport Long wheel base Transit

Staff, Students

keen interest to be involved and was suppor tive of the proposed Ac tion as long as it was approved by the company ’s health and safety depar tment. Geoff Under wood suggested the

Equipment including air pump and any extension or power generator must be suitable for use i.e. correctly rated for outdoor use and CE marked. Mains power supply should be protected by a circuit breaker (RCD) type device. All equipment must be used in accordance with manufacturer’s guidance. The air pump requires electricity supply. This air pump is a 1.5 HP Fan with watertight safety plug. The manufacturer specifications are: 1100Watt/230/240Volts/50Hz. It will be directly connected to a socket via a IEC 14 metre /1.5mm² 230volt cable with fitted BS1363 13 amp plug and 16 amp trailing socket (cable’s max. capacity 13Amp, 3120W). The cable should not present a trip hazard. Mains power supply should be protected by a circuit breaker (RCD) type device.

Ac tion should be covered by the local press and the Gateshead Housing Company newsletter. Both could see the benefit of publicising the projec t, showing residents and the Ac tion Team building a communal space.

Is there a safer alternative Yes  No  Date of next review ___/___/___ 100

Name _______________________ Signature_______________________ 101

APL staff should be present and there must be no lone working either during the set-up/take down or during the event. Identification should be carried along with documentation outlining purpose of the event. Participants should be in possession of mobile phones and be aware emergency number (999) to call if required. University approved contractor to supply vehicle. University insurance form to be completed by driver. Driver must be competent and comply with the insurance/contractor requirements.

back in action

Having

received

approval

from

The

Gateshead Housing Company for Ac tion #5, the Team took the temporar y struc ture to the 3Ps in November 2011 for another Ac tion whose emphasis was to reveal and add to the existing qualities of the space.

102

103

Flyers for a tea par ty and bingo were posted to the residents; The Gateshead Housing Company

â&#x20AC;&#x153;i s t h i s f o r t h e b i n g o, w h e n d o es i t sta rt ? â&#x20AC;?

informed people about the Ac tion in their news bulletin. Richard Finlow organised members

Alfred, 3Ps resident

of the local press to be present. This meant a greater degree of exposure than originally planned, but it did not significantly reflec t in the planning of the Ac tion; it was designed for the space and local residents.

Approximately 20 residents par ticipated, many of whom were familiar faces. I n relation to the We were all really excited to deploy the

number of par ticipants, it was mentioned by

pavilion in the green space, as it would

R ichard Finlow that the residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meetings

allow to enact the experience of enjoying

are similarly attended. The Gateshead Housing

tea in a shared space.

Company also provided

a caretaker so that

elec tricity was available, as well as a first aider. I n addition, three of the local Councillors were present and keen to talk to the residents about this initiative.

104

105

106

107

The design of the pavilion resulted from living

H igh winds blew on the day allowing a fuller test

the space as opposed to viewing the space. The

of the pavilion construc tion. I t was proven that

key aspec t of the design focused on the sk in:

the pavilion shelters from the elements, and that the space provides an enjoyable setting, even in

•

Ensuring

that

people

would

not

less than ideal conditions.

feel

threatened while inside it. • •

Addressing the gusting wind intensified by the flyover.

It was really encouraging to see Keith

Providing a par tially sheltered environment

engaged again as he stayed around to

with

help us take down the pavilion.

regards

sound

and

weather

conditions. •

Emphasising the green and leafy surrounding through its translucent nature.

T H E PAV I L I O N R E S U LT E D F R O M the experience T H E S PAC E

108

109

On the day, we realised that we had improved our technique for constructing the pavilion as it went up much quicker than expected.

110

111

a seating area was set up for a local press photo

The tea ser ving table moved inside the pavilion due to wind

Sec tion

The pavilion moved close to the container to shelter from wind

Plan

Preparation Reflec tion

I ntended and use plan Ac tion 112

113

Another video was made of Action #5 which showed the construction of the pavilion as well as the tea par t y. The video is available from: http://w w w.youtube.com/ watch?v=ukCvnVlK1jw

114

115

Through

conversations

with

the

residents,

a desire for a community space was clearly

A D E S I R E F O R A CO M M U N I T Y S PAC E WA S C L E A R LY A R T I C U L AT E D

ar ticulated. The Ac tion Team also found out that the perceptions of the space had changed owing to its use when the pavilion was erec ted. R ichard Finlow, who expressed surprise at what

The pavilion opened up a path of oppor tunity

had been achieved given the modest budget

as it gave tangibility to the desires expressed

available, explained that residents could apply

throughout by the residents. Until then, the

for a community fund provided that they set up

negatives

a residents association.

forefront

and of

impossibilities

any

discussion

were

the

engaging

the

grassed area; yet the temporar y ac tions allowed residents to re -appropriate the space both physically, by enac ting a social space to share a

T H E PAV I L I O N O P E N E D U P A PAT H OF OPPORTUNITY

cup of tea and a bingo game, as well as mentally as the residents recollec ted the ac tions.

116

117

The Gateshead Housing Company - High-rise residents 'build' their community

01/07/2012 14:18

High-rise residents 'build' their community The Gateshead Housing Company

Published Friday 13th January 12

This ar ticle on the Ac tion Research t was published on the Gateshead High-rise residents 'build' their projec community

SHIFTS

Housing Company website on 13th

Published Friday 13th January 12

Januar y 2012. http://www.gatesheadhousing.

c o . u k / Housing s i t e / s cCompany r i p t s / nand e w residents s _ a r t i c from le. a Students from Newcastle University have been working with The Gateshead town centre high-rise block to look at ways of improving the use ofphp?newsID=1012 their green space. [accessed 1 Nov 2012] The Post-Graduate Architecture students approached The Gateshead Housing Company for support for their project which looks at how architecture can have an effect on communities. For the last 12 months they have been working with residents in Park, Peareth and Priory Court,and known locallyfrom as the Students from Newcastle University have been working with The Gateshead Housing Company residents a '3Ps' bringhigh-rise the community together ideas onthe how the space space. surrounding the blocks can be used townto centre block to look at and waysgather of improving use of green their green in the future. The Post-Graduate Architecture students approached The Gateshead Housing Company for support for their project Students hosted bingo sessions and parties for residents with the latest event being the unveiling of a temporary which looks at how architecture can tea have an effect on communities. pavilion, which has been developed and constructed by the students. For the last 12 months they have been working with residents in Park, Peareth and Priory Court, known locally as the Armelle Tardiveau, Lecturer intogether Architecture at the university, said: "We wanted to surrounding engage with the residents at '3Ps' to bring the community and gather ideas on how the green space blocksand canlook be used the sense of community and how architecture can have an impact on that. in the future. "What we found thatsessions residents were coming together as a community and the green around three Students hostedwas bingo and tea not parties for residents with the latest event being the space unveiling of a the temporary blocks was not being useddeveloped to its full and potential. pavilion, which has been constructed by the students.

The Ac tions were forms of enac tment that

Finally, the Ac tion when the pavilion was

invested

social

deployed

revealed

and

Company

dynamics,

the

space

with

temporar y

revealing

new

dispositions

the

a shared language and facilitated unstruc tured

residents to express their desire for a communal

conversations. I n turn, these objec ts shif ted the

area: in the subsequent residents meeting (19

focus of a space belonging to ever yone, yet not

September 2012) two of the nine items on the

used by anyone, to an informal shared space,

agenda concerned an update on the projec t

thus star ting a process of mental and physical

and the setting up of a Tenants and Residents

appropriation. The group of residents who

Association.

par ticipated in the Ac tions and Conversations moved from obser vers to ac tive players, sharing stories of past memories about the space and

Martin Poulter, The Gateshead Housing Company's Services Manager for central Gateshead, She added: "The support we have received from theNeighbourhood housing company in helping us to complete this projectsaid: has "One our main aims is to bring communities together in Gateshead and support initiatives which help to improve beenof fantastic." the lives of residents. The students will now go on to produce a report detailing the benefits of the project including feedback from "We were delighted to be able to help the Newcastle University students, which has been highly beneficial to residents. residents living in the 3Ps and will continue to support the residents in taking this project forward." Martin Poulter, The Gateshead Housing Company's Neighbourhood Services Manager for central Gateshead, said: Photo above: Students Cara Lund and Michael Simpson and Richard Finlow of The Gateshead "One of our main aimsAmy is toLinford, bring communities together in Gateshead and support initiatives which help toHousing improve Company serve refreshments to local residents Tony Thornton, Bernie Miles and Doreen Lewins. the lives of residents.

we focus on the transformative potential of the

micro -prac tices, introducing ever yday life and mundane objec ts and new uses, should be evaluated in terms of shif ts operated by the process instead of outcomes. I n this regard, we claim that rather than look ing at physical results, process concerning the residents as a collec tive, the established power relation amongst the residents themselves and with The Gateshead Housing Company, as well as the future of the space.

More articles in the news "We were delighted to be archive. able to help the Newcastle University students, which has been highly beneficial to residents living in the 3Ps and will continue to support the residents in taking this project forward." Page 1 of 2

Photo above: Students Amy Linford, Cara Lund and Michael Simpson and Richard Finlow of The Gateshead Housing Company serve refreshments to local residents Tony Thornton, Bernie Miles and Doreen Lewins.

119 Page 1 of 2

for

which in turn provided the oppor tunity for

The results of this research based on temporar y

http://www.gatesheadhousing.co.uk/site/scripts/news_article.php?newsID=1012

agent

and meaning conferred on the objec ts created

"This haswas taught students so much. From together how to connect with people all different andthe three "Whatproject we found thatthe residents were not coming as a community andfrom the green space ages around backgrounds, tobeing getting them ready business as they have been managing a budget and organising the blocks was not used to its fullfor potential. construction of the pavilion." "So we set about looking at ways of improving relationships with residents and creating architecture in their She added: "The support weused have in received from the housing company in helping us to complete this project has community which could be the future. been fantastic." "This project has taught the students so much. From how to connect with people from all different ages and The students will now go them on to ready produce report detailing the benefits of the project including feedback the from backgrounds, to getting for abusiness as they have been managing a budget and organising residents. construction of the pavilion."

118

suppor ting

Housing

temporar y appropriation of the grass area,

star ting to imagine new ones.