Mackintosh School of Architecture / MSA Stage 5 / Hiva Bamshad / Between the water and the city

Between the water and the city

This thesis explores how urban infrastructure can move beyond its conventional role of movement and connection to become a mediator between social interaction, ecologicalsystems, and climate adaptation. As coastal cities face increasing environmental pressures, including rising sea levels, biodiversity loss, and urban growth, architecture must respond through integrated and ethically driven approaches that consider both human and ecological needs.

Situated within Copenhagen’s evolving harbour, the project focuses on Refshaleøen,a former industrial island transitioning into a new urban district. Despite its central location, the area remains physically and socially disconnected from the surrounding city. This presents an opportunity to rethink the harbour as an active civic landscape rather than a boundary.

The proposal develops a network of floating and adaptable pedestrian bridges that reconnect fragmented waterfronts while creating spaces for pause, interaction, and observation. The design is guided by four key principles: Belong, Connect, Float, and Reuse, establishing an ethical framework that prioritises inclusivity, adaptability, and the reuse of existing structures.Architectural technology is central to the proposal, exploring lightweight structural systems, photovoltaic shading, and bio-concrete habitat modules that support marine biodiversity. Through design-led research and tectonic exploration, the project investigates how infrastructure can operate across multiple scales, forming resilient relationships between city, water, and community.

BETWEEN THE WATER AND THE CITY
LAYERED SITE ANALYSIS CONTEXT, NETWORKS & LANDSCAPE
BTWEEN THE WATER AND THE CITY 5
BTWEEN THE WATER AND THE CITY 10
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