Space of sexwork
Exploring Architectural and Urban Aspects to Support Sex Workers and Promote Their Social Visibility in Rotterdam
L.T. Aafjes (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
V.L. de Vries – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
V. Baptist – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
R. Heykant – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / AE+T)
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Abstract
This research explores the landscape of sex work in Rotterdam, a city marked by historical interesting sex workspaces, which are pushed out of the eye of the main public. The research addresses the question of a potential next step by examining the current state of sex work in Rotterdam and the challenges faced by sex workers, including issues of safety, visibility, and inclusivity. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study includes a contextual analysis of Rotterdam's historical sex work locations, literature research, and photo elicitation interviews with sex workers to understand their needs and perspectives. The findings highlight the crucial importance of accessibility, privacy, and a sense of belonging in the urban context, as well as the necessity for integrated and flexible spatial typologies that promote inclusivity, community, and independence. The research also reveals that safety is a primary concern in interactions, with the window, both offline and online, playing a significant role. This paper aims to inform the development of design principles for creating a safer and more inclusive environment for sex work in Rotterdam.