Public space contact in the Södra station area : A place for public life

Abstract: Södra station area is a central neigbourhood at Södermalm, that was planned and built during the 1980s. During that time it was one of the largest postmodern urban planning projects in Stockholm. The intent was to imitate the urban pattern of the central parts of Stockholm with its mixed-use diversity, hence to “promote a rich social life” (Idétävling omSödra stationsområdet 1980, 4). This project investigates the urban form of the Södrastation area, focusing on the interface between public and private space, and proposing new urban features and land-use programs to further support and encourage public life in a central part of Södermalm. Observation of the area and refernance research show that the urban form of the Södra station area deviates form its surroundings and has low support towards its public spaces. How may the streets and the public spaces of the area be enliven?