Pretty boring: an exploration in a leftover space

Abstract

Every city has them. The in-between boring places. They are not defined and usually unappealing. When in correlation with a defined space, such as a transportation hub, that also happens to be unappealing, you get a mix of boredom and stress. But what defines boring architecture? It is a difficult question to answer since boredom is highly individual and never static. The definition of boring can also change over time, but we know lack of diversity and stimuli can cause diverse psychological malign effects. My interest is in the kind of spaces that are usually not registered at all, the leftover spaces, the blind spots of the architectural gaze. What makes it boring and how does it make people feel? Both boring places and feeling stressed can be seen as having potential and as threatening. These spaces can be activated, transformed, and integrated into the main urban fabric to achieve environmental and social gains. This research examines how boring stressful spaces are defined and how they can be activated. It will be an exploration in seeing if small scale interventions are able to enhance an area. Is it possible to detect what boring is and if so, can something be done about it? The aim is to create care in relationships between humans and place and explore how it can be used to create meaning in a space. A result will be provided in a proposal of an installation at Marklandsgatan bus and tram stop in hope to leave the visitor intrigued, to want to stop and explore and feel a bit more enticed. It will be an investigation of space, ambiance and environment in an area that is paradoxically busy yet empty