The project explores how collective futures can be envisioned through design. The site, bordered by the Weiß and Sieg rivers and the B54 highway, is near Siegen’s city center and train station. At its heart lies Oranienpark, a public space often viewed negatively, which will be transformed alongside urban development plans. The project aims to create inclusive and sustainable spaces that address social justice and collective well-being.

This concept builds on Walter Benjamin’s idea of “dream houses” from his Passagen-Werk, which reflected collective desires in the 19th century. Today, these dream houses must reflect social justice, inclusivity, and community. The aim is to integrate these aspirations into everyday life through urban planning that focuses on collective spaces, communal gardens, multifunctional areas, and the creation of shared living environments. These spaces will address both the physical and emotional needs of the community, fostering a more just and equitable society.

The project seeks to create spaces that are not monumental but functional and beautiful in their simplicity. The urban planning strategy revolves around three core principles: creating spaces that promote social justice and inclusivity, increasing urban density near central areas to create vibrant and livable communities, and connecting green spaces and waterways to improve climate resilience and foster recreational and social interactions. Sustainable mobility solutions are central to the design, including public transportation, bike paths, and car-sharing options to reduce car traffic and promote environmentally friendly transportation. The project’s library, a hybrid space that combines work, living, and learning, reflects these principles. It offers flexible, multifunctional spaces for a variety of needs, including quiet zones for focused work, communal areas for collaboration, and access to digital media and maker technologies. The library also hosts cultural events and educational programs tailored to the community’s needs. Above the library, living and workspaces are integrated, connected by a shared social area that fosters interaction and flexibility, while the peaceful inner garden provides a retreat for relaxation and mental regeneration.