The Deutsches Architekturmuseum (DAM) is set to open its real laboratory “Die Lange Bank” on June 30 at 3 p.m. at the Hauptwache in Frankfurt. The installation, known as “The Long Bench,” will be available for the public to sit, relax, and find inspiration until September 9.
“DAM Lange Bank” is an artistic intervention by the DAM that aims to explore urban spaces during the summer. With various modules and a total length of approximately 60 meters, visitors can experience different shapes and configurations in this year’s DAM real laboratory. The installation is accompanied by a project called “Meet Me at the Bench. Exercises in Pausing” by LIGNA, which is part of the “Theater der Welt” festival program. This project invites visitors to embark on acoustic and performative journeys.
The opening ceremony for “Die Lange Bank” will take place on June 30 at 3 p.m. Marcus Gwechenberger, Head of Planning and Housing, will officiate the opening, along with Anna Wagner, director and manager of the Mousonturm, Ole Frahm from LIGNA, and Andrea Jürges, deputy director of the Deutsches Architekturmuseum. Following the opening, the performance artists Tedious Works will demonstrate their “Pausing exercise” live, which they contributed to LIGNA’s “Meet me at the Bench” app.
From June 30 to September 9, the DAM will occupy the urban space of downtown Frankfurt with “Die Lange Bank.” This initiative is a result of the DAM 2022 real laboratory “Living room Hauptwache,” which explored how the city center can be revitalized after the pandemic. The laboratory tested various actions and installations in collaboration with the city’s population, including playing basketball at the Hauptwache, setting up a shared kitchen in public space with a view of the Zeil, organizing a concert in a department store, and introducing creative street furniture to make the city squares more accessible.
“The Long Bench” installation brings together some of the findings from the real laboratory while also exploring new questions. It is designed as a meeting place, as well as a source of inspiration and relaxation. The modular design allows for the creation and testing of different spaces, such as a place of rest and relaxation in the “Wäldchen” on the Hauptwache, a meeting place on the Main bank, and a place of inspiration on the next square. These aspects have the potential to expand the possibilities for public space utilization.
In collaboration with the media and performance art collective LIGNA and the “Theater der Welt” festival, “Die Lange Bank” will also serve as a venue for spontaneous performances and a creative examination of public space. The project is funded by the City of Frankfurt am Main.
The DAM’s real laboratory “Die Lange Bank” offers an exciting opportunity for residents and visitors of Frankfurt to engage with urban spaces, find inspiration, and contribute to the revitalization of the city center.
How does the modular design of the “DAM Lange Bank” encourage interaction and collaboration among visitors?
Irector of the Deutsches Architekturmuseum. Guests are encouraged to join in and witness the unveiling of this unique installation.
The “DAM Lange Bank” is not only a place to sit and relax, but it also serves as a platform to stimulate creativity and spark conversations. The modular design allows visitors to rearrange the seating elements and create their own unique seating configurations. This interactive aspect encourages individuals to engage with the space and each other, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
In addition to the physical installation, visitors can also participate in the accompanying project, “Meet Me at the Bench. Exercises in Pausing,” by LIGNA. This project offers a series of acoustic and performative experiences that encourage reflection and introspection. Visitors can embark on audio-guided journeys, exploring different perspectives and narratives related to urban life and architecture.
The opening ceremony of “Die Lange Bank” will be officiated by prominent individuals in the field of architecture and urban planning. Marcus Gwechenberger, Head of Planning and Housing, will be present, along with Anna Wagner, director and manager of the Mousonturm, Ole Frahm from LIGNA, and Andrea Jürges, director of the Deutsches Architekturmuseum. Their presence signifies the significance of this installation and its contribution to the discourse on urban spaces.
Visitors are invited to experience “Die Lange Bank” and all its offerings from June 30 to September 9. Whether it is finding inspiration, engaging in thoughtful conversations, or simply taking a moment to relax, this installation provides a unique opportunity to interact with urban spaces in a creative and meaningful way. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this exciting real laboratory and explore the possibilities of urban design and architecture.
This article beautifully captures how The Lange Bank is not only transforming urban spaces but also igniting a sense of inspiration and unity within the communities it touches. A truly remarkable initiative that reminds us of the power of collective creativity.
This article beautifully captures the transformative power of The Lange Bank in rejuvenating urban spaces and fostering a sense of community. Truly an inspiring initiative that showcases the potential for positive change in our cities.