Co-creating urban knowledge in diverse public spaces: combining evidence-based design with bottom-up citizens initiatives.

Abstract

The importance of involving and empowering citizens in shaping their living environments and public spaces is widely acknowledged for fostering sustainable and just development, as well as nurturing a sense of belonging, as emphasized by UN-Habitat. Recent discourse underscores the transformation of traditional roles held by citizens and professionals alike. Urban designers, architects, and public planning institutions are now faced with the challenge of adapting to a rising demand for a transdisciplinary, community-engaged design approach.

At the same time, the need for integrating social, economic, and cultural factors to physical structures of cities and public spaces is discussed, suggesting moving beyond descriptive analyses and embracing quantitative inquiries to assess urban dynamics through evidence-based research by using the best available scientific evidence and analysis to inform decision-making. This approach encourages the assessment of urban dynamics through evidence-based research, employing the best available scientific evidence and analysis to inform decision-making processes.

The paper explores a methodology that combines evidence-based design approaches with experimental bottom-up initiatives and participatory methods in a network of open public spaces in the city of Nicosia. The proposal suggests that by integrating research-informed planning and design strategies with creative, bottom-up, and user-centered co-creation methods, potential of both approaches can be maximized. This synergy aims to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of outcomes by deeply understanding public spaces through the lens of citizens' beliefs and aspirations.

Advocating for the integration of empirical research, participatory methodologies, and community-driven initiatives, the proposed methodology seeks to bridge the gap between traditional top-down planning and the evolving dynamics of contemporary urban living, fostering the creation of public spaces that resonate with the diverse needs and desires of the community.

The undertaking is part of the Horizon TWIN2EXPAND project, a collaborative effort aimed at advancing research capacities in evidence-based urban design and planning.