99% Invisible War, Famine, Pestilence, and Design
Aug 10, 2021
Kurt Kohlstedt, co-author of The 99% Invisible City, joins the discussion on how crises shape urban design. He highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic has driven innovative public space adaptations, such as outdoor dining and social distancing measures. The conversation delves into historical design responses to disasters, like the Laufmachina during the aftermath of the Tambora eruption and canning innovations in wartime. Kohlstedt also revisits the revival of the wine window, illustrating how necessity breeds creativity in design throughout history.
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Laufmaschine Origins
- The Laufmaschine, a precursor to the bicycle, was invented in 1817.
- It was inspired by horse slaughter due to the Mount Tambora eruption in 1815.
Eruption's Impact
- The eruption caused widespread devastation, leading to crop failure, food shortages, and disease.
- This created a need for alternative transportation, leading to the Laufmaschine's invention.
Laufmaschine Evolution
- The Laufmaschine, though awkward, gained popularity in England and France.
- Its evolution led to the addition of pedals in 1863, creating the modern bicycle.
