The project’s initial aim was to remove debris and illegal constructions from this lake shore in order to reclaim it for the public sphere. This expanded to establishing pedestrian and cycle routes into the mountains and reconstructing the square and main street through various civil works. The paving in white, black, and red local cobblestones echoes the traditional patterns of carpets still handmade by women in the area, creating an emotional link with the domestic sphere and the town’s traditions. Street furniture is natural stone, wood, and Corten steel. Different outdoor "rooms" are provided for relaxation and recreation including picnicking, table games, and children’s play. The area has become a vibrant daily meeting point for locals and visitors alike where activities from open-air cinema to concerts and from fashion shows to political speeches can also take place. A second phase will see the construction of a museum and visitor centre.

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture