A Norwegian architecture group is transforming an earthquake-hit urban area in Valparaiso, Chile into a community venue for music, theatre and circus performances.
The Scarcity and Creativity Studio – formed by Masters students from the Oslo School of Architecture and Design – has partnered with youth group Sitio Eriazo to work on the project.
Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was badly hit by the 8.3 magnitude quake which caused devastation across the country in September this year. In response, the architects have created a new public space to fill a derelict 300sq m (3,200sq ft) space in one damaged neighbourhood.
The design features an elevated seating platform, named The Wave, overlooking a 360° stage. In addition, the area will feature a cafe, an urban garden and community workshops.
Building work is underway and is expected to be finished by the end of the year.
More than 50,000kr (US$5,800, €5,400, £3,800) in funding has come from sponsors and the studio ran a Kickstarter campaign which raised more than 26,000kr (US$3,000, €2,900, £2,000) for the project.
Sitio Eriazo works across Valparaiso introducing circus, theatre, music, art, crafts, gardening and architecture to derelict urban spaces to promote learning and creativity.
