In Bucharest, public spaces are largely dominated by vehicles, creating tensions between drivers and pedestrians and prompting residents to find inventive ways to claim space. Although initiative groups are pushing for pedestrian priority and reclaiming public areas, progress is slowed by a lack of community consensus. Without quality pedestrian spaces, many citizens don’t know what they’re missing, and concerns over losing parking often overshadow the desire for pedestrian-friendly zones.

The pandemic has made Bucharest residents more appreciative of their limited public spaces, creating a timely opportunity to introduce tools that encourage the community to reclaim these areas for pedestrian use. Such tools are essential for a gradual transition that avoids escalating tensions.

La Firul Ierbii (LFI) is a community center designed to enhance urban life, but recent circumstances have halted its activities. To reconnect with the community, LFI aims to safely bring people together in its garden, a shared public space located at the intersection of Splaiul Unirii and Bulevardul Abatorului, near the Dâmbovița River.

To address the need for reclaiming public space and maintaining community ties, a simple yet effective intervention was made: the installation of a bench. Placed in an area where people naturally congregated, the bench prevented cars from blocking the sidewalk and pedestrian crossing, encouraging greater use of the space for rest and socializing.

This intervention, part of Street Delivery 2020, is designed for long-term community impact. The weather-resistant materials ensure lasting value beyond the event, marking an initial step towards encouraging the community to reclaim public space and demand higher-quality pedestrian zones.