GUMMIBAR
Design Research and Concept : Rachel Refael
Project: Research project
Supervisors: Federico Martelli, cookies.lol
Field Research: Rachel Refael, Noel Ingeveldt, Angelo Ciccaglione , Katharina Kasinger
Visuals by: Rachel Refael
Exhibited at: Hofbogen, Rotterdam
Texts by: Rachel Refael
The project began with a series of interviews with local musicians from the Agniesebuurt neighborhood, documenting their experiences, challenges, and ambitions. These insights were then transformed into a spatial and chronological map of Vijverhofstraat, illustrating the evolving connection between music culture and the urban landscape.
Agniesebuurt has recently emerged as a dynamic hub for up-and-coming musicians, often featured in lyrics and music videos. However, the neighborhood is facing the effects of commercial development, gentrification, and the ongoing pandemic, which have led to a loss of accessible performance and production spaces for artists.
This design addresses two main challenges. First, it creates a public stage for musicians, designed to enhance visibility and maximize audience engagement through an outward-facing performance setup. Second, it offers interactive interiors where musicians can personalize spatial platforms for music video production, live-streamed performances, and virtual events, providing a versatile space for creative expression.