Access to nature and green spaces is very limited, especially in urban areas. Many therefore dedicate themselves to an allotment garden in order to relax in the green but also to pursue their own personal projects. Allotment gardens are often closed communities in which knowledge about nature and harvesting grows – yet many garden owners are interested in sharing their knowledge and opening up to the outside world.
The digital space “grüner fleck” wants to use the potential of allotment gardens as places of recreation in the green to encourage a sense of community and exchange. Owners of allotment gardens should be inspired by this platform to make their own gardens accessible to others. Therefore they have the opportunity to gain gardening support or to offer events such as lectures and workshops or even concerts. Visitors can use this access to discover something new and inspiring while experiencing local green spaces.
The project was developed in an intensive co-design process with Daniel, an allotment garden owner. During the first meeting it became clear how much Daniel appreciates sharing knowledge and socialising with others. At the same time it became clear how much he values the peace and relaxation he can experience in his garden.
In the course of the project it became apparent that Daniel needs both: On the one hand the private domain and on the other hand the public sphere and the interaction with other allotment gardeners or visitors.
Daniel’s ideas and needs became the platform “grüner fleck”, which was built according to his needs. The core of the concept was the knowledge we gathered with our co-designer and his family. We were able to present the result to the other allotment gardeners. We realised that Daniel was not alone with his needs and that other allotment gardeners were also looking for exchange and wanted to benefit from the community.
Developed in summer of 2021 together with Laïsa Cordes.