ARCHI
TECTURE
FILM
AWARD
CAPITOL CASTLE
Project: Renovation of the Capitol in Washington Year: 2021 Type: Open proposal, not executed Program: 1.5m wide Protective wall Size: 147,000 m² Architecture: Opposite Office Team: Benedikt Hartl Location: Washington D.C. Client: Architect of the Capitol (AOC)
In recent years, democracies have increasingly come under pressure. In many countries, the erosion of democracy by right-wing groups and enemies of democracy has become apparent. In some places, this is happening through extra-parliamentary groups, while in others, democracy’s adversaries are already in power.
There are anti-democratic attacks and targeted assaults on democratic norms. The storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2020, provides the accompanying images and strengthens the narrative of a democracy in crisis. But how can democracy defend itself?
With the dystopian project “Capitol Castle”, Opposite Office presents a version of democracy that must hide behind ever-higher walls. The seat of Congress is transformed into a fortress, with the classical building encased in a layer of 1.5-meter-thick solid walls.
Democracy likes to see itself as an open house. Power and authority are meant to come from the people — but what do we do when these people become increasingly divided?
Not only the USA, but many countries are struggling to maintain social cohesion. Digitalization, globalization, social inequality, and social networks accelerate polarization and division.
So how can democracy protect itself against these attacks? The answer will not be found in high walls and isolation, as the dystopia of Capitol Castle suggests — but neither will it come from moralizing and social ostracism.
Democracy is not a fortress! The only protection for democracy lies in social justice, fair living conditions, fair wages, and genuine social prospects.
Democracy is love!
The project has been featured in the international press, including in the USA, UK, India, Italy, Brazil, China, Russia, and Germany.
The full-length film was shown and awarded at various film festivals, including the Milano Design Film Festival, the Caesar Design Film Awards, and the Architecture Film Award.
Watch the trailer here: Capitol Castle – About Democracy.
