Kristiansand Torv - En konstruert sosio-materialitet

Every city has one or several open areas for which typically serves a spesific function. In themselves, they represent something different or unlike the common widespread streets that a city consists of. These open areas often times are designed and serves as ‘squares’. This thesis looks at a square in the city of Kristiansand, Norway. The square is called ‘Torvet’ or ‘Kristiansand Torv’. There are several ways to put into frame the ongoing life and activity within a square. Also, there are several ways for which the square makes an impact, or has a function on how the general rythm of city life playes out. This thesis adresses Kristiansand Torv within a socio-cultural context. Now –what does that exactly mean? A socio-cultural framework must consists of three different elements; 1] Physical planning and design, 2] social interaction and activity in relation to given physical constructions and 3] its expressive/symbolic value. Like many other squares, Kristiansand Torv was founded in another age. A central square as the centerpiece, came to be viewed as the ideal form for urban planning within the time of the Renaissance. Kristiansand Torv was founded in this period-during the 16th century and 17th century. Fast forward to this day the Renaissance idea of a square being the centerpiece within a city, still has its grip on urban planning. In 2018 the municipality of Kristiansand came up with new guidelines regarding the design and use of this square. It is stated that the goal for Kristiansand Torv, is to make it the most important meetingplace and a heart of the city. Several topics are being adressed in the guidelines. These topics concerns design and use of ‘recreation and stay’, ‘market sales’, ‘events’, ‘music and art’ and ‘restaurantactivity’.