Blue Ti(d)e - Exploring the role of water as Örebro’s meeting space

Abstract: In 1888, the lake Hjälmaren underwent a process of lowering by almost 2 metres with the aim of gaining 19.000 ha of arable land. This process had a wide array of ecological implications, and in connection with other historical events, it also resulted in spatial and social cracks dividing the city of Örebro laying on Hjälmaren’s west shore. The changing physical aspects of the city have led us to question the relationship of humans and species to the lake, but also to the stream Svartån connecting the lake and the city. Örebro used to be a city of collective practices and shared resources. It had much stronger ties to water as it used to be more present and made the city more centre-oriented. This does not apply today - the city’s development is oriented outwards, its centre lacks in quality non-consumerist spaces and capitalism and individualism are at the forefront. With this explorative design thesis, we propose solutions to activate Hjälmaren and Svartån. Our project widens the offer of common spaces and resources in Örebro, giving its residents more opportunities to interact in the everyday presence of water – just like in the past, but with a more modern spin.