Space and Place in Madrid’s Neighborhoods
Sophie Maes (GGFUP, 2017, Location: Madrid)
Mapping is a central component in Paisaje Transversal’s work. Each diagnostic they produce relies on a series of maps which visualize geographic and statistical data. These visualizations help them to pinpoint neighborhood vulnerabilities, and socioeconomic and spatial patterns that may emerge throughout a district. I have spent most of my time this summer reading diagnostics on three of Madrid’s districts. Information on the accessibility of public space, mobility and infrastructure, social dynamics and public services, economic activity, and housing are all delivered in map form along with written analyses. At 100 plus pages long, these documents serve as proposals for the City Council to review and roadmaps for future initiatives. To express similar information, Paisaje Transversal communicates with the public via their blog which condenses aspects of each project into a few pages and visual aids. The blog is essential in making their endeavors transparent, and open to suggestions and critique.