#1902
THE WALL


Location:

OLD TOWN, STOCKHOLM


Type:

EXHIBITION


Status:

COMPLETED


Client:

ARKDES

(Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design)


As part of the exhibition Architectural Visions: Skeppsbron, a continuous wall is proposed to fully envelop Gamla stan, the picturesque old town of Stockholm. The wall is a manifestation of a zeitgeist characterized by fear, uncertainty, and unrest which affects both international politics and Swedish architecture debate.

The proposal, which in addition to a wall includes a new public garden along the Skeppsbron quayside, is presented in a letter sent to His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, who happens to be residing just next door, and who has previously expressed public criticism regarding the plans for a new Nobel Centre in the area. This letter was exhibited at ArkDes – and later at the Seoul Biennale – accompanied by a 1,5 x 1,5 m hand-drawn aerial view of Gamla stan, a model, a piece of the wall, and a postcard, which read:

Dear all,

After a few hectic days in Stockholm, we finally found peace in Gamla Stan. We had to wait in line forever to get inside, but it's well worth it! We've been strolling back and forth in the clean, well-kept park along the Skeppsbron quayside all day long. With the old houses this place is so quaint and feels very genuine, almost as if time's been standing still!

See you soon!

Love,
Kattis & Konrad

KOCKSGATAN 56    116 29 STOCKHOLM