More life in the neighborhood: Neighbors welcome new seating opportunities

More life in the neighborhood: Neighbors welcome new seating opportunities

In an increasingly urban environment in which the space for cars often has priority, a new project in Vienna is enjoying growing popularity. At one point where Eva Schrems took a seat for an interview, there used to be vehicles. "Two minibuses would have space here," she notices with a smile. The redesign of public space has not only changed the landscape, but also the way the residents perceive the city.

At the beginning there were reservations on the part of the neighborhood. "Some neighbors were skeptical at first," says Schrems and blinks into the sun. The main concern was that the newly set benches, tables and beds that were designed as a Grätzloase would take valuable parking spaces without being used. But these concerns seem unfounded, because the Grätzloase has turned out to be far more than just a parking space substitute - it promoted social interaction.

social interaction and sense of community

This redesign creates a space that brings the neighborhood together. The square, which was once dominated by parked cars, now serves as the center of social life. People sit together, enjoy the fresh air and have lively conversations. Schrems reports of the positive response: "I am happy every time if there are no cars." It is clear that the atmosphere has changed positively.

The Grätzloase is not only a place of encounter, but also helps to beautify the cityscape. The lovingly created beds bring a piece of nature into the urban area and invite you to rediscover this corner of the city. The initiative shows how important the conversion of space in urban areas is to meet the needs of the community without disturbing the flow of traffic.