This place you see is about to be no more.

[Biopower solidified by the means of architectural constructions]

It was modernity that brought the idea and the technology to build high rise, high density buildings for the working classes at a global scale. The tower blocks were mostly hailed as a cure to overcrowded, unsanitary, poor urban settlements.

Interés social, Plattenbauten, Cutie de chibrituri, Cajas de zapatos are just a few names these structures receive around the world.

Le Corbusier’s vision of a “machine for living” was rooted in a naive idea of progress. However, his theories were often misapplied by budget-restricted authorities who misunderstood the humanistic core of his ideas.

From “vertical ghettos” in the U.S. to symbols of racial harmony in Singapore, the global spread of tower blocks tells a story of uneven outcomes. As corporate powers eclipse nation-states, the legacy of public housing remains a contested image in urban representation.

This project stems from a series of very personal reflections on public housing and their topology as a manifestation of biopower. It also reflects on the idea of tactics and strategies as described by De Certeau and their infinite feedback loop.

Standalone videogame.

Additional 3D models by Mike Pan, Martinsh.
Scripts by HG1, -Killer.

Uses the Linea iconset by Dario Ferrando.
CC Licensed assets.

Special thanks to Anne-Marie and/for Leon.

contested.city [AT] proton [DOT] me