Where do temporary urban design interventions fall on the spectrum of public participation? An analysis of global trends

Abstract

Urban environments profoundly shape human life, yet rapid urbanization often overlooks social challenges, hindering the development of cohesive communities. To address these challenges, contemporary practices are embracing participatory design approaches globally, resulting in a growing trend towards temporary urban design interventions (TUDIs) that catalyze shifts in how people interact with cities. While scholarly research explores the relationship between participation and social change, it offers significant potential for raising questions about such connection: Where do TUDIs fall on the spectrum of public participation? How would a comprehensive framework be formulated to evaluate such interventions regarding public participation and social change? What are the design processes and design outcomes of these interventions? This study examines the relationship between participation and social change in the context of TUDIs, via a meta-analysis of the literature and practice, to devise a methodological framework that integrates a variety of components involved in urban design projects worldwide. The framework informs urban design theory and practice about TUDIs through the lens of participation, while simultaneously underlining their value as a strategic tool for socially integrated cities. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd