Desire Lines: Addressing the Pedestrian and their Access to the Jukskei River Through Public Interest Design

Abstract

In this thesis, the propinquity of pockets defined between urban schemes of Dainfern and Diepsloot is explored. As well as the overlap zones of various networks of urban goers. The possibility of developing the prospective benefits of these pockets will be outlined through the principles of public interest design (PIB), placemaking, and adventure playgrounds. This reinforces the ideals of ‘rights to the city’ and creates a feeling of citizenship by focusing on the commonalities of the urban goers. To create a community between otherwise divided groups. The research methodology is site and context-centred, revealing where conflicts may lie, and opportunities sourced. Doing this through the exploration of the materiality and features of the Jukskei River site, and the desire line paths that weave through it. The proposed design develops a productive, shared space that instigates common curiosity and skill development through addressing the propinquity of various urban goers and utilizing the rubble and waste that has accumulated on the site.