Khumo Moshe

This research explores the historical tension and socioeconomic differences between Orange Grove and Norwood. These neighbouring suburbs are characterized by diverse cultures and a mixed-income profile. These tensions lie between and along major arterial nodes, Louis Botha Avenue, a transit route and Grant Avenue, a local retail high street. The study investigates the potential of Paterson Park, located between the arterial nodes, as a mediating space for the neighbourhoods. The park offers the opportunity for connection between the neighbourhoods through urban principles that create safe and comfortable public connections. The proposed intervention neighbours Paterson Park and is driven by the immediate activities. It aims to establish a maker’s guild and trade training centre, providing opportunities for marginalized individuals, local entrepreneurs, businesses, and the community. The facility will impart essential urban principles for successful neighbourhoods and emphasize the significance of public art, craft in construction, and facilitating better contractor-client relationships.