guerilla architects' 'der stadt:symbiont' is a co-working space inside a caravan

in response to the uncontrolled increase in rent for urban studio space, guerilla architects has presented its concept for a mobile office inside a caravan. entitled ‘der stadt:symbiont’, the project is a guideline for the autonomous creation of an affordable work space in the city.

just 7 sqm contains all the essential functions of an architect’s studio.

faced with increasingly unstable working conditions, those employed in the creative sectors have in recent years been forced to adjust to exaggeratedly flexible working models, short term contracts and precarious payments. without a stable income it is often difficult or impossible to rent a long term office space, leaving many creatives longing for the dream of autonomy. international architecture collective guerilla architects suggests that the solution to the demands of working in the city lie in the city itself. ‘architects need to explore new fields of action: future architecture means city-hacking’, explains the group.

guerilla architects understand the city as an existing network of diverse infrastructures that everyone can use

their caravan/office, entitled ‘der stadt:symbiont’ is not only a multifunctional and mobile work space, but also includes a map of berlin’s various free resources. the plan expands over just 7 square meters, but contains enough space and storage to accommodate more than your average office. two fully equipped work stations define the space, with a third more casual desk set aside for coffee breaks and meetings. clever use of storage maximises productivity, with perforated peg boards on the walls and a lightweight modular racking system beneath. the build even includes an integrated kitchen, so you needn’t even step outside for lunch.

without a stable income it is often difficult or impossible to rent a long term office space

guerilla architects understand the city as an existing network of diverse infrastructures that everyone can use. working ‘between the lines’ of laws and parking regulations, they developed a guide for central, long-lasting and cost-efficient working spaces. free resources — wi-fi, public toilets, canteens — complete the independent, always on-site, long-term and cheap architecture office and connect the small-scale working space to the large-scale city. the stadt:symbiont promotes social exchange as a visible institution and creates a meeting place of creative energy for residents and passers-by alike.

a perforated board keeps things in order

the integrated kitchen

the interior is based on a modular lightweight racking system

a third space is provided for coffee breaks and discussions

working in a public space is intended to enhance social interactions

a leaflet helps the users to find suitable places all over the city

a general leaflet as guideline for building your own stadt:symbiont

a map of berlin’s districts highlights free urban resources and favourable parking areas

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: peter corboy | designboom