A piece of democracy as a design statement

In a democracy, the collective engagement and active participation of citizens is of the utmost importance. It enables freedom of expression, promotes respect for individual rights and creates the basis for a just and equal community. Democratic decision-making enables a broad diversity of ideas, perspectives and solutions, leading to innovative and sustainable outcomes.

 

The Austrian parliament was completely renovated for 6 years (2017-2023) and a temporary parliament building was erected on Heldenplatz. The creative minds behind Sägenvier Design Kommunikation, Leonie and Siggi Ramoser, initiated "einstückdemokratie" to make a piece of democracy portable for Austrians.

 

A temporary statement on and from Heldenplatz

 

Heldenplatz is a historical site of great importance for Austria. It is located in front of the magnificent Hofburg Palace in Vienna and is a central point in the country's history. The square was the scene of important events, such as the proclamation of the Republic of Austria in 1918, and this historical significance was honored with the relocation of the provisional parliament building to Heldenplatz. In keeping with this, the creative minds Leonie and Siggi Ramoser were looking for a memorable design for the exterior façade after winning the tender.

 

The new design of the pavilions is a careful selection of texts from the Austrian Federal Constitution, the Charter of Fundamental Rights, the Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. These texts were typographically designed and individual words were translated into the 22 official languages of the EU at the time. They are laid around the pavilions like strings of pearls to emphasize their significance. The colors of the flags of all EU member states were placed at the upper edge of the net tarpaulins. This symbolizes the challenging task of further developing the EU, which is not easy to achieve.

 

Breathing a second life: from façade to fashion statement

 

The renovation of the historic parliament building was recently completed. But the tarpaulins won't just be thrown away now, will they? That would be far too bad! This is how the self-initiated project einstückdemokratie started.

 

The once straight canvas is now transformed into individual fashion and design statements. From bags to baskets and lanyards and laptop bags - democracy is literally made wearable here. Whether dark gray, reddish or bluish, with or without a fragment of writing - customers only see all of this when the package is opened. This is because each piece is unique and can be ordered directly to your home. If you prefer to decide for yourself which piece of democracy you would like to purchase, you can also visit various stores in Austria. There you have the opportunity to choose from various designs.

 

A social project with social profit

 

So what's left? The answer is simple: what really counts! Einstückdemokratie supports two charitable organizations with the profits made: TISCHLEIN DECK DICH Vorarlberg and Andreas Rainer's project - Wiener Alltagspoeten - for the benefit of Volkshilfe Österreich.

 

One-piece democracy is therefore far removed from a profit project. The focus here is not on financial gain, but on commitment and support for social projects. Attitude, values, education and influence are the real benefits of this movement. It's a good feeling to know that you can make a positive difference and help improve the lives of others.

 

No Christmas present yet? Give away a piece of democracy this year. You can find the products online at SASU - Schöne Dinge von hier und anderswo as wellas in the SASU stores in Vienna and Dornbirn. Other options are the Museum der Völker Schwaz, the Wei sraum Tirol and the Botta Lustenau.