The Cuvrybrache as Free Place - The diverse meanings of a wasteland in Berlin

Abstract

Berlin contains many wastelands, which are often conceived of as true waste by urban planners and real estate developers. In their opinion, these spaces just wait for future developments. Berlin citizens, however, create meaningful places out of these abandoned spaces. The Cuvrybrache, well-known for the Blu mural paintings, is such a meaningful place. This research reveals the diverse meanings of the wasteland through a mix of research methods: observations, interviews, and photography. One of the current users rightly typified the area as a playground for grown-ups. It is a site to hang out with friends, barbecue, spray graffiti, start a guerrilla-garden, take the dog for a walk or just look at the river and dream away. This spontaneous temporary use is possible, because the wasteland has been lacking programming for the last twelve years. Analysis of conversations show that the temporary users value the wasteland as a free place, while it offers opportunities for diverse activities, contains alternative aesthetics, provides space to subcultures and, most importantly, functions as a hang-out area near the river. Informal users have created a meaningful place that contributes to the liveability and diversity of the city. This socio-cultural value conflicts with the economic value of the Cuvrybrache as the land owner aims to realise offices, lofts and a hotel. Current temporary use is, thus, threatened by future developments, which are part of the neoliberal waterfront redevelopment plan Mediaspree.