WIthin the Some Call Us Balkans project, project partners ZK/U and DKC Incel worked creatively throughout 2022 and 2023, together with the SCUB community and artists to reclaim a public space in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Građa, the surface of an atomic shelter located in Banja Luka, has been facing ongoing issues since 2011 when it served as the only improvised playground in the Centar 1 neighborhood. Twelve years later, residents are still fighting to preserve this space from being converted into a parking lot.
In 2022 we mapped the needs of the residents and reflected on ways and methods they could use to intervene and improve their neighbourhood.
In May 2023, we implemented some infrastructural improvements, such as a wooden tribune, mobile trees for an agile park, painted walls, a new roof, and improved basketball and court facilities. We celebrated this with a program development, including sports and cultural events, community radio, and guest events at Građa.
We are delighted to see the “Atomic Hangout” in action and are already working together on plans for 2024/2025, which include extended landscape design projects, improved water supply situation, and more.