Otto Wagner Staedtebaupreis Acknowledgement for the BB-Matrix 1998 
Relaxing controlling mechanisms by means of deregulation

The concept: 
The proposal is to employ a dynamic zoning-matrix (instead of the existing rigid and excessively regulated zoning-plan) that can react to the relevant developments and the current and future demands of society. Special needs, different lifestyles and views of the world are articulated within this complex system. They find their expression in what is called the zoning-formation, which is derived from the matrix. Influence is exerted on the matrix by concrete and practical rules; i.e. the importance and the connection of relevant topics and their significance for a specific site or area. This guarantees that the intention – the will – flows into the rules that secure specific demands. The result remains free. Goals can be defined within the rules. In this way control is exercised where it is meaningful. The result emerges and escapes control. In this way deregulation is anchored in the matrix.

The operative solution: 
Step 1: Researching all relevant resources, influences and demands on and for a certain area (i.e.: from the existing building structures to social structures, to weather, to radiaesthesy, to emissions, to frog trails etc.).

Step 2: Formulation of essential connections and assessment of the importance of certain layers of influence to ensure that certain demands (i.e.: light, air, infrastructure, density, etc.) are met.

Step 3: According to the preferences of the users additional relationships or additional significance of certain layers of influence can be introduced (i.e.: you can emphasize the importance of less ground sealing on the site and relate it to the maximum permitted density. The result will be a slender, tall building within the concrete corset of the need to leave sufficient light for others).

Entering these parameters makes out of the development matrix the zoning-formation, a specific derivation valid for the building site. Changing the links and the emphasis produces a different zoning-formation.

The result:  
According to the parameters entered a variety of possible and applicable solutions (zoning-formations) are produced for a site that are significant for the essential will and not just a symbol of it.

An in-depth description of the zoning-matrix, the aims and the solutions is available in the German version of our homepage.

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