Transitions
Reviving the historical legacy of swimming in the Danube by redesigning its waterfront
M. Rio Maior Alvarez e Serra (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
JA Mejia Hernandez – Mentor (TU Delft - Situated Architecture)
K.M. Havik – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Situated Architecture)
P.H.M. Jennen – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Architectural Technology)
W.W.L.M. Wilms Floet – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Situated Architecture)
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Abstract
In a world that is becoming more virtual by the day, there is a longing for physicality that yearns to be fulfilled. This thesis explores the potential of architecture to evoke diverse behaviors and emotions, drawing from the idea that individual perceptions of space are subjective and influenced by the memories and knowledge ours bodies have absorbed from our unique lived experiences. With Budapest as a dynamic testing ground, the thesis focuses on activating the Danube waterfront.
The proposed project consists of a retreat that transitions the people from Budapest to the water fostering a more symbiotic relationship between the urban community and the river.
The project comprises two parts. The first is a private bathhouse facility, nestled within a once-concrete expanse in a park and sheltered within a public layer. The result is a building that outwardly serves the public, while inwardly housing an introvert private bathing facility. The second is a public floating structure, paying homage to the evocative reminiscences of old pontoon pools with a purpose of re-activating the historical legacy of swimming in the river. By sewing these two worlds together in one area, while bridging the community physically to the river, the proposal becomes a revitalisation of the waterfront.
The goal was to craft an architecture that delivers spaces capable of leaving a lasting impression on the mind and bodies of those who engage and experience them. Architecture is the set for life to happen, and we, as set designers, choreograph and orchestrate different scenarios and environments for different users to engage with - and the play plays out.