PLAY ON THE TRACKS
23 Jul 2019
As part of a winning entry for the 2019 CANactions Youth Competition, architect Illya Rastvorov has proposed the transformation of an abandoned railway depot in Copenhagen into a colourful playground and public space that would cater to all ages and abilities, and enhance the social conditions of the city.
The theme for the 2019 CANactions International Architecture Festival focused on the exploration of community, or hromada in Ukrainian. This notion is a key focus of the country’s historical and cultural codes.
Illy Rastvorov’s proposal for Copenhagen Playground would see the revitalisation of the abandoned railroad depot of the Copenhagen Railway Station in Denmark into a thriving public playground, as a response to the festival’s 2019 theme. 
As abandoned railway areas are typically attributed to negative social conditions, Rastvorov desired to use this space to create new community facilities, improving the social conditions for the area.
The site currently consists of a flat surface with nine parallel tracks and 21 old railway freight cars. Rastvorov’s vision sees each of these cars redeveloped and distributed onto different tracks, with each assigned a key function of play. 
The hazardous areas would be fenced for precaution and the site will be equipped with all-access structures, such as stairs and ramps. The complex will include a playground, sports grounds, a carpark, a found court, and an interactive zone.
The sports area provides a space for all ages and interests to interact, with the idea for art installations to be present to encourage community participation. The carpark can be transformed into a performance and entertainment area. 
To add a sense of wonder and discovery, a tunnel is planned to go under one of the trains, providing visitors with a chance to see how the cars look from below.
The industrial atmosphere will be utilised to create a unique and engaging public space, while every safety precaution will be taken to ensure that visitor security is paramount. 
CANactions is an educational platform that integrates the most relevant world experience in the sphere of architecture and urbanism to educate and inspire responsibility active change-makers. Since 2008, the festival has become the biggest educational event in the sphere of Architecture and Urbanism in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. Winners of the Youth Competition are offered Master’s degree scholarships and a 6-month paid internship in the MLA+ Offices in Rotterdam.
Images © Illya Rastvorov
