Week Two of the project saw the studio split into groups to observe and map the site considering three themes: networks, borders and differences. Those considering networks were to look into the perceived (absolute) scales and frames of the site; borders were to observe and map the conceived (abstract) edges and atmospheres; and the differences group were to understand the lived (relational) uses and opportunities of the site.
Working as part of the differences group, I decided to look into the religious buildings around the site, and how the members of each religious community move and occupy the street and the buildings which they consider their place of worship.
The differences between each religions places of worship and places for gathering were clear from conducting desk research. Typically, all Christian churches were purpose built for their use as Christian places of worship whereas Mosques and Synagogues and other Jewish affiliated buildings (such as religious colleges) in the area are primarily buildings which have undergone a change of use from flats, terraced houses etc to become functional spaces to be used by religious communities who have emigrated to the country.
Due to their purpose built nature, Christian churches are settled into large plots with green space for their church yard surrounding the building. The clear difference between these plots and those which have undergone a change of use is most visible through diagrammatic nolli maps.
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