'Friction' is the title and starting point of this urban design strategy project. In the city, friction caused by movement can lead to both physical and social encounters. I have introduced friction in two ways along stretches of abandoned rail line in Brooklyn, informally known as the X-Line. First, I use friction to bring new meaning and a sense of belonging to an existing space. Second, I use friction to create a new space.

'Friction' has three parts. First, it replaces the train with a fast recreation path for people. The fast path is on the same level as the railroad tracks and is used for jogging, bike-riding, and skating. The fast speed preserves the forest and the peacefulness of the space. It also evokes the memory of the speed of trains, while introducing a new type of friction between people and the X-line.

The second element of'Friction' are the street-level sidewalks along the blocks adjacent to the X-Line, used for walking and sitting. Third, is the platform used as a transitional space that mediates the encounter between people in the fast path and people on the sidewalks.

http://issuu.com/mariananetto/docs/architecture_portfolio_mariana_nett