2.2 Masterclass Objectives

The Masterclass for Just City Design in Rotterdam is the first of its kind in Europe. It brought together nearly 20 students from four universities and diverse backgrounds to participate an intensive five-day workshop to study and design for urban justice in Rotterdam.

The objective of the masterclass was to explore Toni Griffin’s Just City Index through research by design using four case studies in the city of Rotterdam. The masterclass sought to read the principles and values of urban justice and develop practical recommendation for spatial and strategic designs for Rotterdam.

The workshop was a means to further develop the Just City Index as a method for design and gain a grip on the tools. The expected output of the workshop was that the three questions put forward could be addressed through design solutions, policies, social and physical interventions, etc. described through photographs, collages, movies, posters, story-telling, etc. These would also provide materials for relevant stakeholders and professionals to view their projects through the lens of the Just City Index and brainstorm new ideas for urban justice.

1. What elements of the development can be MAPPED as ‘just’ and ‘unjust’?

2. Which values of the Just City Index are in ALIGNMENT with the needs of the site and can be addressed?

3. What recommendations can be made to the developers and the municipalities to CREATE a more ‘just’ future for the neighbourhood?