Abstract Spaces with higher livability can be produced by the strategic, small scale and quick intervention projects and it has been continuously practiced all over the world as opposed to large-scale revitalisation project. This can be associated with urban acupuncture strategy that generally focuses in maximising the effects on the pinpoint locations and possibly causing the catalytic effect in the urban network. The fundamentals in urban acupuncture theory lies on the specific target on its application and in this exploratory research, the target is the abandoned spaces. This dissertation seeks to reveal the key elements of urban acupuncture application from successful urban acupuncture projects around the world. Case studies from prominent figures in urban acupuncture such Manuel de Sola Morales, Jamie Lerner and Marco Casagrande are used to gain the information needed to achieve the aim of this research. Additional information is also provided in this dissertation from the interview done with urban acupuncture practitioner, Professor Simon Bell. The relevant keys principals of urban acupuncture is presented in respect to the process of revitalisation of abandoned spaces. The findings of this research should also be viewed as a guideline for future urban acupuncture project, using the acupuncture strategy as the tools for revitalisation of abandoned spaces
Keywords: Urban acupuncture, small scale intervention, abandoned spaces, urban voids
Content Abstract Chapter 01 | Introduction
6
Rationale Objective Academic Significance Reading Guide Chapter 02 | Theoretrical Explorations
12
Unpacking Urban Voids Theory of Urban Acupuncture Of potentials and opportunities Chapter 03| Methodology
32
Chapter 04 | Research
34
Learning From Urban Acupuncture in Practice Urban Acupuncture Extended: An Interview Chapter 05| Discussion
62
Chapter 06| Conclusion
70
|Chapter 1
Introduction
U
rban acupuncture claims its name and
energy flow and relieve stress in the human
metaphorical application from ancient
body so the body can function properly (White
medical treatment which can be traced back
and Ernst 2004). This applies the same to a city
to more than 2500 years ago (Deng, et al.
where the energy flow represents the people
2015). The concept of Qi, (flow of energy in the
in the city, their activities and movement. That
body) and Zang-Fu (organs) as practiced in
makes social behaviour as an important factor
chinese traditional medicine in many aspects
that influences the effect of urban acupuncture
can be manifested in urban realm knowledge
(Hernadez 2014).
(Hernadez 2014). The metaphor of city and
This exploratory research study on urban
human body has been established by various
acupuncture is conducted in respect to
figures such as Plato, Vitruvius, Leonardo
abandoned spaces that can be found in the
da Vinci as well as modernist architect, Le
urban environment. It also looked into the origin
Corbusier (Hernadez 2014). Urban tissues
of urban acupuncture theory as presented by
city’s lungs, heart and arteries comprises the
three urban designers who are also pioneers
urban planning terminology that was formed
of the theory. The knowledge of urban
by comparing fragments of the city with the
acupuncture then be fulfilled in the context of
organs of human’s anatomy (Hernadez 2014)
revitalizing abandoned urban spaces and the
The purpose of acupuncture is to balance the
whole urban fabric.
Urban Acupuncture |Introductions
6
|Chapter 1
Figure 1: Urban acupuncture strategy involves precise intervention on pinpoint location
Rationale Urban planning strategy frequently focuses on
to create new project, urban planners and
regeneration of urban areas and its common
designers has to work with existing urban
practice is large scale urban renewal. The
condition. According to Hernandez and
approach is proven to be successful but in
Casanova (2011), the topic of public space
this present urban environment, precision and
acupuncture is important to many European
intensity of the acupuncture project will guide
cities. The economic recession especially in
the revitalization project to a positive extremity.
construction sector forces the municipality
The elements from an urban acupuncture
to reduce the spending on major public
strategy might initiate civic engagement and
works (Casanova and Hernandez 2011). This
adopt problems that may have been overlooked
scenario has instigate the urgency to find low
in bigger scale projects. In fast changing urban
cost, temporary strategies that are effective to
settings when it is becoming more difficult
produce positive impacts on urban habitat.
Urban Acupuncture |Introductions |
7
|Chapter 1
Objectives
betterment of future society and economy.
The main objective of this dissertation is to
The underused and deteriorating spaces also
establish better knowledge in about the theory
have the potential to re reshape the urban core
of urban acupuncture and acknowledge its
so it can attract people within city’s periphery
capability to create a positive ripple effect to
and counteract sprawl and suburbanisation
regenerate abandoned spaces. The aim is
(Tiesdell and Camona 2007).
also to identify different types of abandoned
spaces are in need of a restructure so they can
spaces and as the pinpoint location for urban
continue to connect with other elements in
acupuncture projects. This dissertation should
within an urban fabric (Tiesdell and Camona
also be seen as a quest to break down the
2007). The designers for urban redevelopment
theory of urban acupuncture and create better
have
understanding it by reflecting on its principles
creatively infill and rediscover many hidden
on distressed urban regions
resources in the city (Tiesdell and Camona
the
tremendous
Abandoned
opportunities
to
2007). Therefore, this research can also be seen as an attempt to identify different types of abandoned spaces and hoped that it can be
Academic Significance
useful to the early stages of urban regeneration
There are potentials confined in abandoned
of those areas.
urban space that can be harnessed for the
Urban Acupuncture |Introductions|
8
|Chapter 1
Academically, many researches has been done on this topic however the theory itself has not been explicitly described in systematic way. Jekaterina Balicka mentioned in her Blue Health project podcast in 2016, the research in urban acupuncture is not widely developed which is why she consider that urban acupuncture is still in ‘baby phase’. Without proper guideline, it is challenging to implement this theory in real life project (Balicka 2016). The findings on urban acupuncture in this dissertation intends to simplify the theory for large majority so that the theory urban acupuncture is more coherent further research or implementation.
Urban Acupuncture |Introductions |
9
Reading Guide
The first chapter is an introduction of the
about the interventions of opportunities and
research approach and it starts by establishing
unfilled potential in an urban realm.
the research structure of this dissertation. By clarifying the rationale, main objectives and
Chapter
three
describes
the
research
significance of the study, this chapter intends
methodology that is conducted in an attempt
to explain the gist of urban acupuncture and
to solve the main research question. This
the importance of this practice in present time.
chapter will cover the discussion of 3 case studies of urban acupuncture projects and
Chapter two begins with the discussion of the
research conducted by important names
concept and theory abandoned spaces. The
in urban acupuncture projects. A primary
latter part of this chapter is the exploration of the
interview is also included as another research
theory of urban acupuncture. In this chapter the
methodology
readers can draw a connection between urban acupuncture strategy and abandoned spaces,
10
This chapter explores the case studies chosen
previous chapter. The identified components
to investigate further in the topic of abandoned
will be further discussed in the context of
spaces and urban acupuncture. The case
abandoned spaces in an urban fabric. This
studies are relevant to the history and condition
chapter also present the combinations of
of the sites, the idea behind the strategies, the
urban acupuncture principles to be applied to
cultural and socio-economic effects of the
different types of abandoned spaces.
project. By the end of the chapter, the important principles in urban acupuncture application for
The final chapter will summarise this dissertation
specific urban condition become clearer. The
from research to findings. This chapter includes
readers can also observe the parallel grounds
the reflections on the limitations of research
of urban acupuncture applied in 3 different
methodologies and recommendations for
projects.
future research in this particular subject.
Chapter 5 utilised the inputs gained from case study analysis and interviews as explained in
11
|Chapter 2
Theoretrical Explorations
Re-packing Urban Voids
According to Roger Trancik in 1986’s Finding
These spaces have conflicted identity because
Lost Spaces, lost spaces can be viewed as
it belongs neither in the realm of public nor
cracks that are disrupting the spaces in urban
private space. This condition confiscate the
fabric. The leftover unstructured landscape at
functions and identities of the places which
the base of high rise towers, the sunken plaza
cause it to be forgotten and unfitting to
away from the people’s activities in the city,
interact with society (Pluta 2017). However,
unmaintained freeways, deteriorating parks
for urbanists and designers these spaces are
and abandoned waterfront, and industrial
always seen as a state of interstice, waiting for
sites are common examples of lost spaces or
opportunities to be reactivated(Trancik 1986).
urban voids that exist in an urban environment (Trancik 1986).
“urban voids re desirable urban areas that are in need of redesign making to positive contribution to the surrounding they are ill-defined, without measurable boundaries and fail to connect elements in coherent way.” (Trancik 1986, 3-4).
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
12
|Chapter 2
"In traditional city three principal types of urban solids have evolved: (A) Public monuments and institutions (B)The predominant field of urban blocks (C) Edge-defining buildings There are five main types of urban voids that perform various functions in the exterior space of the city: (D) Entry foyers that act as passageways between private and public space (E) Inner block voids are semi-private transition zones; (F)The network of streets and squares corresponds to the predominant field of blocks and contains the active public life of the city; (G) Parks and gardens are nodes that contrast with architectural urban forms, while linear open space systems (H) Natural features such as riverways, waterfronts, and wetlands, cut through urban districts to establish edges and create larger scale connections" (Trancik 1984, 102)
Figure 2: The types of urban solids and voids according to Trancik (1984)
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
13
Trancik (1986) convinced that filling the gap
Agata Pluta in his published article Urban
of urban voids is as important as the creation
Void as a Potential of the Contemporary
of urban mass. These spaces has the has
City Development in 2017 believes that the
potential to ensure visual and functional
concept of urban voids has many layers of
continuities thus forming an urban realm
context and the perception of the theory also
where architecture and external space are
evolves over time. He revised Trancik’s theory
inextricably connected (Pluta 2017).
by stating that not all spaces without building
He expanded his theory on urban voids
is abandoned. Pluta (2017) adds that public
by classifying the spaces into categories
squares and streets are deliberately designed
according to the extent of openness and
to intersect with urban tissue. Even though the
enclosure of the city’s urban tissues which are
public square is empty, it is not abandoned
the inner-block voids, inner foyers, networks
or deprived (Pluta 2017). The squares are
of streets and squares, parks and gardens
designed to satisfy its function for the people,
and linear open space system (Trancik 1986).
therefore it is not considered as urban voids but rather as an urban interior that can be
He expanded his theory on urban voids
found in urban tissue (Pluta 2017).
by classifying the spaces into categories according to the extent of openness and
Pluta further classifies the type urban voids
enclosure of the city’s urban tissues which are
based on the three factors of ‘emptiness’
the inner-block voids, inner foyers, networks
which are the planning voids, functional voids
of streets and squares, parks and gardens
and geographical voids.
and linear open space system (Trancik 1986).
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
14
Planning Voids
Functional Voids
Geographical Voids
Characterised by context and history
Defunct Spaces
Leftover spaces due to geographical features; e.g. rivers, valley etc
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
Source: Tokyo Void
Source: WebUrbanist
Source: River Remediation and Urban Development Scheme
|Chapter 2
Road widening
Urban fissures Figure 3: Front cover of the literature where the termn SLOAP was first used, illustrate the 'cut-and-fill' method of construction for sloping sites
Interuption of old fabric
Gaps between urban fabric and infrastructure
Figure 4: Exemplar situation that cause SLOAP in urban planning
Pluta describes the planning voids as the
used to describe a range of useless spaces
emptiness caused by in inefficient and flawed
left-over in site planning (Kinoshita 2009). The
planning process. They are created due to
housing planning approach tends to leave the
planning and lack of understanding of the
sloping areas unutilised. Those spaces have no
urban tissue (Pluta 2017). Planning voids can be
soul and slowly losing their relationship to its
further explained by associating it with Space
surrounding building which nobody appears to
Leftover After Planning (S.L.O.A.P) which
own (Kinoshita 2009). Example of SLOAP that
was initially referred to the cut and fill method
exists in urban fabric is the leftover vacant plots
in construction of housing development
lies located between the roads, houses and
(Kinoshita 2009). The acronym was then later
factories.
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
16
|Chapter 2
Figure 5: Edensor (2005) contest the notion of completely changing the value the ruins by celebrating its the opportunities to run new form of alternative public life
Figure 6: Edensor (2005) appreciate the use of the ruination as shelter for homeless people, venue for impromptu rave, space for play and artistic expression and emergent habitats for plant and animals
Second factor is the functional voids. This type
which Tim Edensor describes as the creation
of voids are lost, empty spaces in the city. When
of voids in the aftermath of industrialisation
the spaces are not used as they were originally
age within densely populated area in the city
designed, they eventually become defunct and
(Edensor 2005). During the industrialisation
neglected (Pluta 2017). Functional voids is are
period, buildings were planned out to efficiently
often restricted by legal aspects for example
accommodate mass production to the point
the adjacent areas and the buildings are under
that the aesthetic is no longer important. The
litigations or owned by the authority which
production age however was momentary and
makes the process repositioning its functions
the abundance of industrial buildings were
would have to go through a complicated
abandoned and left to deteriorate (Edensor
bureaucratic process (Pluta 2017). Functional
2005).
voids share similar attributes with industrial ruins Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
17
|Chapter 2
Figure 7: Houtan Park, Shanghai. According to Timur (2013), Urban Riverfront Regeneration is the intersection between different aspects of urban life. The river represents a community heritage and its riverfront demonstrates a great potential for becoming a central axis in a new and articulated public space.
Another factor is geographical voids. The
aquatic and terrestrial settings (Timur 2013).
places are geographical features in the city like
Historically, waterfront played an important
rivers, hills, valleys, etc.). Geographical voids
role for transportation and trade which over
is formed due to the inability of city planners
the course of time lost its function to rapid
to respond well to these geo-features hence
economic activities and industrialisation. The
rendering the space useless
(Pluta 2017).
interest for waterfront regeneration nowadays
Waterfront is an example of geographical voids
is to revitalise economy along water side spaces
in edge environment. The waterfront which is
and places. It can maximise urban quality,
often linked to maritime history of a city belongs
contributing in preserving heritage culture and
to a complex existence, interfaced between
re-create urban connections. (Babalis 2017)
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
18
|Chapter 2
"...'Urban Voids' can be defined as follows, "Unutilized, under-utilized or abandoned land or areas and premises which exist in urban areas due to outdated of defunct uses" (Perera 1994, 130).
Urban voids is also given another definition by
of surrounding areas and public health and
Perera (1994) as an unutilised, under-utilised
wellbeing (Ordway 2018). To avoid those
or abandoned land or area and premise which
impacts it is important to have the profound
exists in urban areas due to outdated of defunct
knowledge regarding abandoned spaces to
uses. From the definition, abandoned spaces
determine the proper applicable intervention.
is regarded as an extension of urban void. This
Abandoned spaces are highly adaptive which
term is relevant in allowing emphasis regarding
means that it can act as a mediator of existing
its own subject within the discussion of urban
built environment and something that has yet
voids theory. Urban abandoned spaces in this
to be developed. (Pluta 2017). Abandoned
dissertation could also refers to neglected,
spaces are in the advantage for dynamic
derelict, defunct or deteriorated spaces.
development of the cities, thus it should be used for spontaneous projects of revitalisations
As clarified above, the revitalization of
(Pluta 2017). There are various spontaneous
abandoned spaces are related with strong and
ways to make these places more functional and
balance interventions on the place (Pluta 2017).
habitable. Most importantly, these voids should
Without proper actions, the condition of the
have its own identity and be contained in both
places will continue to deteriorate and further
private and public realm so that the users find
have negative impacts on social qualities for
themselves as a part of it thus creating a sense
example in crime behaviour, property values
of belonging.
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Abandoned Spaces
19
|Chapter 2
The Theory of Urban Acupuncture The theory of urban acupuncture was first
that the term urban acupuncture in Sola
brought to public by British architect and
Morales’ context is an attempt to create small
critic Kenneth Frampton in his 7 Points for
scale, catalytic interventions with the realisable
the Millennium manifesto at the 1999’s UIA
effects within a relatively short period of
conference in Beijing (Frampton, 2000). In the
time. The project is also capable of achieving
speech he cited the work of Manuel de Sola
maximum impact to immediate surroundings
Morales for the Barcelona regeneration project
(Frampton, 2000).
in early 1980’s as an urban acupuncture project (Frampton, 2000). Frampton further explains
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
20
Urban acupuncture diagram from Urban Ecosytem Design Lab
21
“…the location of the sensitive points is the first step in the strategic treatment of the urban skin. It is dexterity in the identification of the spots and the channels of influence in the fabric that enable us to add new qualities, adequate energy, whether cold or hot, and to empower urbanity in its various modes. (Morales, 2008, p. 24)”
Layers of the city The term urban acupuncture was later
specific point on it have will the capacity in
elaborated
changing everything connected to it (M. d.
by
Spanish
architect,
urban
planner and theorist Manuel de Sola Morales
Morales 2008).
himself in his literature, A Matter of Things
The determination of sensitive points is the
in 2008. He examined the aspects of Urban
first step in a strategic treatment and he would
Acupuncture within the urban context such
choose the precise location where there is
as the materiality as well as the physical and
little energy in the specific part of the city’s
philosophical elements in it. Morales’ point of
skin (M. d. Morales 2008). Sola Morales’ work
view in Urban Acupuncture concentrates on
is also driven by stimulating urbanism through
the physical nature of the urban skins, how it
small interventions which resulted in maximum
is perceived as resilient and sensitive part on
effect and in order to achieve that goal, the
the urban fabric. The urban skins, similar as
precise alteration of the fragments on the city
biological epidermis can be injured, scarred,
is needed (M. d. Morales 2008).
altered of even broken but in time, it recovers (M. d. Morales 2008). Morales describes that
By viewing the city as the skins as explained
the urban skins comprises of construction,
by Morales, one can begin to understand
textures and the contrast that connect the city
the aspect that the city contains layers of
and our body, which also what he considers
interdependent networks, which are constantly
as the representation of urban experience (M.
evolving and connecting to each other. Thus,
d. Morales 2008). He claims that if needed,
the city needs subtle alterations, to build or
urban skins and textures can be treated with
work on existing build environment without
acupuncture therapy. The modification of one
causing additional damage of deterioration.
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
22
Figure 8: The Laboratoria de Urbanismo de Barcelona is the contribution Morales and is a relevant baseline for Morales' theoretical thinking. The figure illustrate Barcelona and its forms of urban growth. The city is explained in terms of: self-built areas, garden cities, old town, suburban growth, new town extension, housing estates, etc.
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
23
|Chapter 2
"The notion of restoring the vital signs of an ailing spot with simple healing touch has everything to do with revitalising not only that specific place but also the entire area that surrounds it (Lerner 2014, 1).”
Manipulation of urban catalysts
Brazilian architect, urbanist and the mayor of
pinpoint intervention, the project or action that
Curitiba, Jamie Lerner also shared the same
can sparks the current that can begin to spread
thought regarding the needs for alternative
(Lerner 2014).
strategies for urban renewal as mentioned by Frampton in his manifesto. Lerner expressed
His view on urban acupuncture is broad and
his visions of urban acupuncture and his way of
applicable to various urban scenarios but at
practicing urban acupuncture in Acupunctura
the same time he also draws the simplicity
Urbana, in 2014. Compared to Manuel de
within the theory itself. For example, he simply
Sola Morales, Lerner’s approach to urban
describes any transformations that can gained
acupuncture is more people-oriented, most-
maximum
likely because of his background as a mayor of
corporations by the society is the example of
the city.
good and true acupuncture (Lerner 2014). He
Lerner’s idea of urban acupuncture also
believes that urban acupuncture has the ability
originated from alternative medical practice,
to revitalise problematic areas and turn it into a
urban acupuncture.
better place for the community (Lerner 2014).
interaction,
participation
“Lerner believed that the city needs the fast
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
24
and
|Chapter 2
Lerner also believes that every problem in a city
the embodiment of life, work and movement and if
have its own equation of co-responsibility and
the casques of the turtle is separated in parts, it will
design. He compares the city with a turtle because
die (Lerner 2007). Similarly for city, the elements of
according to him, turtle is symbolises the activities
living of working cannot be separated because it is
of working and living together which show the best
needed to establish an integration of compatible
example of equality of life (Lerner 2007). Turtle is
urban functions for the city. (Lerner 2007)
Figure 9: Lerner's metaphor of the city and a turtle
Even though Lerner’s idea to improve the city
are education and mobility (Lerner 2014). By
via urban acupuncture is a general concept,
manipulating the quality from both pressure
in his projects he consistently prioritise
points, Lerner manage to design or treat the
some important elements
within his urban
city with a holistic approach. Educating city’s
acupuncture practice. He believes that there
fresh mind will initiate change for the future
are two pressure points that act as catalysts
as well as in the long run, improving the city’s
in regeneration process of the city, which
mobility.
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
25
|Chapter 2
Figure 10: Casagrande's diagram on organic acupuncture in Taipei
Manipulation of urban catalysts Urban acupuncture theory has been revised
is creating a connection between life-providing
and is given a new dimension by Finnish
system of nature and collective urban built
architect, bio-urbanist and environmental artist
environment (Casagrandre 2006).
Marco Casagrande. Casagrande combined
His works are primarily related to illegal and
the sustainable and organic urban design with
instable settlements that are in danger of
Chinese medical theory of acupuncture, which
demolition, for example the Treasure Hills. He
gives urban acupuncture a new understanding
believes that these places has core energies
. He views the city as an organic system and
that needs to be directed in positive ways so that
same as Lerner, he also believes that the
it can contribute to the society (Casagrande
societal participation is important in urban
2015).
acupuncture. The core of Casagrande’s idea e
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
26
|Chapter 2
“...like turning over the compost that has been the smelly part of the farm just to become the most fertile top soil, I was careful to manipulate hidden energy flows and the small elements that I introduced to Treasure Hill can be compared to the needles in acupuncture.” (Casagrandre, 2006, p. 3)
Another focus on Casagrande’s theory is that he uses natural environment as a strategy to
It is believed that compared to other theorists,
counteract the negative impact that industrial
Casagrande’s
city it brings to the locality (Casagrande 2015).
essential approach in revitalising problematic
Many of his work in the Ruin Academy are based
areas. He chooses to focus on site-specific
on the incorporation of the natural environment
condition that are severely degraded. His
into specific areas and aims to connect people
urban acupuncture practice and the aim of
back nature by turning the industrial city
this dissertation shares similar groundwork in
towards an organic machine (Casagrande
terms of preferred site for revitalisation, which
2014). Architecture and environment are apt to
are abandoned spaces and the process of re-
produce acupuncture needles. Casagrande’s
scaling those spaces back to focus on human
work on Treasure Hill will be further explained
scale.
work
highlights
the
most
in next chapter of this dissertation.
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
27
|Chapter 2
Of Potentials and Oppotunities The first segment of this theoretical study is
benefit the cities if it is handled accurately. One
the general discussion of urban voids between
of many ways is by using urban acupuncture as
two literatures from two different periods
a tool to unearth its potential.
of time. The present perception of urban
All three pioneers above have different
void is slightly different than it was before,
perceptions
mainly due to the nature of urban cities that is
acupuncture. This is because they have different
constantly changing and evolving over time.
sets of priorities framing each foundations of
The classification of three types of urban voids,
the theory thus having the unique goals for the
planning, functional and geographical voids are
projects. Manuel de Sola Morales seek the
important to the discussion because it portrays
perfect locations for the therapy that can better
the unique characteristic of the voids in terms
affect the whole interdependent system. Jamie
of socio-economic, political and historical
Lerner focuses more on social strategy related
views. After exploring the philosophy behind
to people’s participation that will affect the
abandoned spaces and urban acupuncture
making of urban acupuncture. Finally, Marco
in detail, the possibility to unite both subjects
Casagrande
become more apparent. Urban voids or its
the hidden energy within the organism for
extension, abandoned spaces in many cases
sustainable built environment.
of
the
concept
concentrates
on
of
urban
redirecting
are considered as hidden potential that can
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
28
|Chapter 2
Despite of these differences, they still share the
initially deduced that the urban acupuncture is
most basic concept by linking their theory of
an effective tool to be applied to abandoned
urban acupuncture with medical acupuncture.
spaces. By combining their views on the
In general, they all agree to the same purpose
theory and utilising them as the foundation of
of creating better city by applying small scale
the future abandoned spaces revitalisation,
intervention to a precise and strategic location.
it is believed that the project will not only be
The intervention will be followed with the
capable in filling the voids within urban fabric
amplification of positive energies and possible
but also provide urban open spaces that are
ripple effects in entire city ecosystem.
economically, socially and environmentally
From
the
theoretical
study
of
urban
valuable to the city.
acupuncture from all three theorists, it can be
Urban Acupuncture |Theoretrical Explorations|Urban Acupuncture
29
After understanding the potential of abandoned
1. What is the potential of lost abandoned
spaces and opportunities offered through the
space and the importance of its revitalization to
concept of urban acupuncture, this topic is
the city?
becoming more inquisitive, thus leading to a
2. What is the vision upon the theory of urban
main research question. The research question
acupuncture according to the pioneers?
that needs to be answered in this dissertation is
3. What are the underlying principles of urban
how urban acupuncture can be applied to the
acupuncture?
process of revitalization of abandoned urban
4. What are the benefits and challenges that
spaces?
exist in order to apply urban acupuncture in
To answer this question accurately, there are
order to revitalize and urban area?
a sub-questions that is leading to the main
5. How has the urban acupuncture principles
research question and need to be resolve
been applied to abandoned spaces to generate
separately.
their transformations?
30
"How urban acupuncture can be applied to the process of revitalization of abandoned urban spaces?"
31
|Chapter 3
Methodology
To achieve the goal of this dissertation, a set of
all of the projects selected are focused on the
methodology has been outlined to thoroughly
revitalisation of abandoned spaces.
gain information about the topic of urban abandoned spaces and urban acupuncture.
The underlying aspects for exploring the
The methodology is case studies. The case
case studies has been structured to fully
studies chosen are a case study of in Barcelona,
comprehend the aim, the core ideas and the
Spain by Manuel de Sola Morales, Curitiba,
effect of the project to the society. The outline
Brazil by Jamie Lerner and Taipei, Taiwan by
has been divided into four criteria which are the
Marco Casagrande. The projects chosen in the
background, vision, the issues embraced by
case studies are completed by the prominent
the space, tools for the solutions which is the
theorist in urban acupuncture, therefore it is
acupuncture and transformation of the spaces
appealing to trace the origin of the project and
after intervention process.
discover the trigger points that brings them to
By breaking down the case studies to smaller
the ideas behind urban acupuncture.
focus points, this allows the research to be
Secondly, the location of the projects which are
conducted in a comparative analysis on every
in Europe, Latin America and Asia proved that
criteria in all case studies. Different ways of
the application for theory of urban acupuncture
practicing urban acupuncture are evaluated
does not have geographical limitations. It
to identify the elements of parallelism in
also shows the variety of approach taken by
urban acupuncture principle. The purpose is
urbanists to adapt to cultural, socio-economic
to reveal the prominent principles that can be
and political influences of the particular country.
the contributing factor to the success of all
To maintain the relevance of this dissertation,
mentioned projects.
Urban Acupuncture |Methodology|
32
|Chapter 3
This dissertation benefits from an interview conducted practitioner,
with
an
Professor
urban Simon
based on his experience in urban acupuncture.
acupuncture Bell
who
The findings from comparative case studies
was involved in regeneration waterfront in
are then merged with inputs from the interview
Annekanal, Tartu. He is a forester-turned-
with Professor Bell to establish stronger
landscape architect with major interest in
characteristics and core principals of urban
planning and designs, forest landscape
acupuncture. The principals that appeared
aesthetics, outdoor recreation and urban
and proven to thrive in urban acupuncture
forestry. Professor Bell is currently active in
projects were not explicitly explained by those
Blue Health project, investigating whether
architects in case studies but can be learnt by
the implementation of blue infrastructure can
comparing their urban acupuncture projects
affect public health and prevent diseases.
and information from the interviewee. At this
The qualitative interview was conducted as
stage, the results from this research does not
opposed to quantitative interview and was
only create better understanding of urban
organised in a semi-structured format. This
acupuncture but can also be used as an early
kind of interview provides a chance to obtain
stage guidelines for designers and further
more information about the concept as well
urban acupuncture projects.
as about his personal opinions and reflections
Urban Acupuncture |Methodology|
33
Learning from the Practice of
Urban Acupuncture
Moll de La Fusta, Barcelona, Spain Case type: Intervention of small spaces Architect: Manuel de Sola Morales Year: 1981-1987
Source: Bing Map
|Chapter 4
Figure 11: Arial view of Moll de La Fusta
Background
environment and its spatial quality (Busquets
Major rehabilitation program in Barcelona
2005).
was conducted not long after the end of its
Urban system intervention is the planning
dictatorship ruling in 1970’s (Calavita 2000).
proposed by Manuel de Sola Morales after
Observing the difficulties to form a quality of
he received the commissions of Barcelona’s
modern planning method in the reconstruction
urban renewal and was celebrated as new type
other post-war cities, it became more
of urban planning (Busquets 2005). A master
necessary for Barcelona to improve on it by
plan that assembles all contents of innovative
means of system intervention (Busquets 2005).
planning. The initial interventions aim to
The previous planning method had numerous
improve the city image, create better public
flaws and proved that in the case of Barcelona,
transport system and reactivating neglected
master plans are unable to solve the local
or unoccupied interstitial spaces. This strategy
problems in much smaller scale (Busquets
was also programmed to prepare the city to
2005). The interventions however have the
organize a mega-event, the Olympic Games
capability to appreciate the complexity of urban
1992 (Busquets 2005)
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
36
|Chapter 4
Figure 12: Moll de La Fusta before urban renewal
Figure 13: Moll de La Fusta on Olympic '92
The Issue
of spaces and their values especially between
Moll de Fusta is the first project in the sequential
the residentials at the core of the city and the
that was executed in the master plan and the
coast (Pacarisa 2014). Before the renewal
first seafront regeneration project in Barcelona.
project was carried out, these spaces are
In relation to the scale of the master plan, Moll
were difficult to manage and as a result
de la Fusta project is relatively small, however it
they deteriorated (Clos 2017). It was just an
marks the beginning of the urban transition of
obsolete area without any recreational quality
coastline which has always been subjugated
(Clos 2017). This space is was an obstacle that
by hard edge of the aquatic ring road (Pacarisa
hinders smooth movement of the community
2014). There was apparent lack of connection
from city centre to the coast (Pacarisa 2014).
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
37
Figure 14: The Ronda Literal ring road. The new system of access was based on the construction of coastal ring road
The Vision The vision for the city is to form a strong socioeconomic reconfiguration to improve the connection between the people and two major identities which are the historic city centre and the coast. The development of Moll de La Fusta means to drive people to appreciate the outdoor space. These network of urban regeneration projects are also done as preparation to become a city that can succesfully host the Olympic Games in 1992(Montaner, 2010)
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
38
Figure 15: Sectional diagram of regeneration of Moll de La Fusta
Tools (Acupuncture)
redefined the image to the city after the
The project began in 1981 when Morales cleared
transformation of an urban promenade which
out a long stretch of condensed palm plants by
can be classified into two, the esplanade close
the waterfront to attain an open space out of it.
to the shore and the elevated part with car parks
The space then became an outdoor museum
and cafĂŠs (Pacarisa 2014). The pedestrian and
when sculptors such as Franciso Lopez, Robert
traffic still share the same wharf but the function
Llimos and Roy Lichtenstein started to inhabit
is separated, leaving uninterrupted traffic flows
the space with their artwork. (Kent 2002).
at the lower part which improved the travelling
This early intervention managed to claim back
experience along Ronda del Litoral through
seafront and beaches at the same time offering
the views of the sea (Pacarisa 2014). For the
livable and engaging public space.
pedestrian promenade, the presence of the
In 1983, Morales modify used old timber
beach has become more prominent than ever
wharf by constructing it to become two level
with new-found features for example the
platform. The top level is for the pedestrian
spaces for contemplation and recreational
access and lower level is allocated for traffic
activities that never existed before. Both level
and underground parking (Busquets 2005).
of promenades enriched the people's visual
This hierarchy of social activities allows smooth
and physical connection to the sea (Pacarisa
transition of people’s movement between
2014).
historic city to residential and the coast. He Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
39
Transformation The chosen pressure point, Moll de la Fusta was a precise location for an intervention. Even though the site of the Moll de la Fusta was abandoned but it was still in contact with the urban realm, making it possible for the community and society to act as the meridians for the change in urban scale. This intervention proved to be successful when the clarity of the project led to an introduction of long distance traffic that runs across suburban Barcelona’s perimeter and enabling large scale reorganisation of the port (Busquets 2005).
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
Figure: The vibrant atmosphere of Moll de la Fusta
Opera de Areme in Pedreiras Park Curitiba, Brazil Case type: Transformation of Industrial Sites Urban Planner: Jamie Lerner Architect: Dominages Bongestabs Year: 1992-1993
Source: Bing Map
Figure 16: Opera de Areme sits on the artificial lake that was designed as flood prevention strategy
Background
undergone major restoration which led to
Embracing the uniqueness that every city
the construction of Opera de Arame on the
possess its own design quality, Jamie Lerner
site (Lerner 2014). Frequent occurrence of
succeeded in transforming abandoned and
flooding and the increase of ‘shanty towns’
neglected sites into one of Curitiba’s important
are the great challenges faced by the urban
public space (Lerner 2014). Once a derelict
planner and designer in Curitiba (ICLEI 2002).
quarry site, Pedreiras Park has had undergone
The geographical condition, the construction
major restoration which led to the construction
of dwellings and commercial buildings along
of Opera de Arame on the site (Lerner 2014).
the river streams are the main factors of the flood. (Baro 2016). Like many cities in Brazil,
The Issue
the industrial sites in Curitiba also became
Embracing the uniqueness that every city
the target of illegal occupation in the forms of
possess its own design quality, Jamie Lerner
‘shanty towns’ (ICLEI 2002). This structure of
succeeded
abandoned
land utilisation is problematic as it can disrupt
and neglected sites into one of Curitiba’s
local ecosystem. It also shows the sign that
important public space (Lerner 2014). Once
the city is needing more green space around
a derelict quarry site, Pedreiras Park has had
(ICLEI 2002).
in
transforming
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
43
Figure 17: Opera de Arame is also known as White Opera House
Vision The revitalisation project for Pedreiras Park aims to illustrate that a derelict land can be renovated into an attraction, creating more sustainable public spaces, protecting the ecological system and functioning as flood prevention strategy (Baro 2016). By active participation from the community, the most important aspect of this project is to instil more understanding and appreciation towards natural environment (Lerner 2014). It is also to educate people in the subject of urban recycling by turning the blighted urban regions into a refreshed civic space.
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
44
Figure 18&19: Details of the structure of Opera de Arame
Tools (Acupuncture)
city level (ICLEI 2002). Different to Barcelona
Flooding and ‘shanty towns’ problems in
where primary focus was given to both hard
Curitiba were able to solve through the design
and soft landscape of public spaces, Curitiba’s
of parklands (Lerner 2014). For example, Park
main attention was about greening the city to
Pedreiras was designed with lake as a solution
counter its problem
of water management and flood prevention
The urban acupuncture project that intends
control in Curitiba (Baro 2016). Realising
to be discussed here is Opera de Arame, a
that the city need more green space, Lerner
theatre built in Pedreiras Park as venue for an
starts a campaign to encourage people to
international theatre festival. This building sits
plant and water the trees along city streets.
by the man-made lake and is accessible by
The campaign aims to educate the people to
crossing a footbridge over the lake (Lublow
appreciate natural environment at an intimate
2007).
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
45
Tools (Acupuncture) From the designer, this open theatre only took 60 days to be completed and fully functional (Lerner 2014). The reason for a fast-paced construction is because they only use single elements of materiality as the structure of this building which is the tubular white steel and glazed roof (Lublow 2007). The assembly of steel and glazing makes this building more lightweight therefore reducing the workforce needed for construction. The light structure allows visitor to immerse in the surrounding nature which is the lake and woodlands. Within this sustainable wire, Opera de Areme has accommodated many important cultural events that attracts the locals and tourists alike (Lerner 2014).
Figure 20: Interior of Opera de Arame
46
Transformation The design realisation for this project addresses the concept of
buildings and
nature merging together and simultaneously exploring a different dimension of reusing lands. The transformation of Park Pedreiras symbolised the change in city planning approach of abstract functionalist to a more socially aimed projects that improve urban life and integrated projects network. (Carranza and Lara 2015)
47
Treasure Hills, Taipei, Taiwan Case type: Old Settlement Intervention Architect: Marco Casagrande Year: 2003 Source: Bing Map
Figure 21: Different layers of dwellings in Treasure Hill
Background During his first visit to Taipei in 2002, architect Marco Casagrande stated that he felt close to the humanistic energies of the city of Taipei at the same time questioning the inconsistency of those energies (Casagrandre 2006). The experience of reading official data map was completely different than walking down the street himself (Casagrande 2015). A year later he proceeded for a quest to study human or organic layer of the city and the possible ways to respond to it by means of urban planning in Taipei. That was when Casagrande discovered the Treasure Hill, an urban farming community owned by senior citizens of Kuomintang, veterans and illegal migrants (Casagrande 2015). Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
49
Figure 22: Casagrande sketch about his intervention in Treasure Hill
The Issues
and their farms were turned into lawns.
The authority treated Treasure Hill as an illegal
Casagrande saw the ruins of the place through
settlement. They started to demolish the first
the discarded furniture, altars, photo albums,
two layers of the dwellings on the hillside leaving
abandoned houses and spreading the illegal
only the higher houses up on the hill that are
small garden by the rivers (Casagrande 2015).
inaccessible by the bulldozers (Casagrande
From an adverse image of the place, Casagrande
2015). The remaining houses organically built
feels that the human energy in Treasure Hill was
the new settlement for the community and
strong and it was still there, but at the time the
once again, the authority choses to demolish
energy was pressured to go the wrong path
the pathways and steps that circulate between
(Casagrande 2015)
houses (Casagrande 2015). All the residents were repositioned to the modern apartments
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
50
Figure 23: Fast solution to revive the circulation
Figure 24: Simple construction allows the residents and students to participate in hands-on activities
Vision
Tool (Acupuncture)
He sensed the responsibility as an urbanist
Casagrande noticed that the places has no
to formulate a solution to turn the negative
proper waste disposal management and the
energy towards a construction. According to
villagers are growing their own foods. The first
Casagrande (2015), Treasure Hill surfaces
step was to consistently clear out the waste
various possibilities of sustainable urban
from hill down the streets. After a few days,
living in the future. He adds that this place is
people started to pick up his routine and begin
like an attic of a house. Treasure Hill is the
to clean for themselves too (Casagrande
subconscious space of a house’s memory
2015). Casagrande who later got the support
thus considered as the attic of Taipei. It holds
from university students and local architects
the connection of man and nature when
manage to keep the village garbage-free.
human nature became part of the nature.
He then continued to re-build staircases to
(Casagrande 2015).
reconnect the remaining stairway that survived the bulldozers wreck
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
51
Figure 25: A seat built by the residents. Ruin is when man-made has become part of nature.
Figure 26: An abandoned bath-tub acting as a rainwater collector in Treasure Hill.
Tool (Acupuncture)
restarted the farm, which was always the heart
By doing this he can keep the continuity of the
of the Hill (Casagrande 2015). Casagrande
place, allowing easy access for the people via
(2015) noted that Treasure Hill possessed
the loop for circular movement throughout the
various
settlement. (Casagrande 2015).
sustainable urban living of the future. The
Casagrande’s work at Treasure Hill was
qualities of such place were that it has a bond
appreciated by the locals, scholars and fellow
of memories between modern man and nature
architects and they were actively involved
when human nature shares part of nature
with the operation. Provided with enough man
(Casagrande 2015).
possibilities
of
environmentally
power and simple construction materials, they managed to recuperate the connection between the settlements and at the same time Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
52
Figure 27: Treasure Hill settlement
Transformations
After the success in reviving the energy
His method of intervention was in a small scale
Treasure Hill, the place was acknowledged
and considered as covert at first but as more
as a sustainable urban living in Taipei and
and more people volunteered for the work, the
legalised as part of public environmental
authority then visited Treasure Hill and started
art work (Casagrande 2015). It was also
to apprehend how raw and sustainable the
advertised as Taiwan’s must see as an example
settlement is. They immediately recognised
of urban living. The work done by Casagrande
Casagrande ideas and agreed with his view
changed the image of a disgraceful settlement
that Treasure Hill should be sustained the way
in a globalised city to be seen as preferable
it is (Casagrande 2015).
organic community (Casagrande 2015).
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
53
Reflection
pinpoint location of urban acupuncture project.
For all cases above the theory of urban
The intervention done on the site does not only
acupuncture explained by Morales, Lerner
serve the people as its designated function,
and Casagrande are extracted based on
but also work as an additional matter to elevate
their projects. The accomplishments of this
the urban experience for the people in the city.
theory can be clearly discerned through its practical implementations, positive responses
Lerner’s project, the construction of Opera de
from local societies as well as the degree of
Arame in Pedreiras Park also reflects his theory
transformation.
in urban acupuncture in a more comprehensible way. His perception of good acupuncture can
Moll de la Fusta project and Morales’ new urban
be seen through a more socially collective and
planning proposal shows his appreciation on
communal-based observation. Those simple
urban skins and the importance to locate the
projects have the ability to trigger people’s
needles prior to starting an urban acupuncture
activities by encouraging them to explore the
project. The needles should only be located
streets thus creating meeting places. Lerner’s
on potential sites that can be transformed
acupuncture project is more about aiding the
within a city. By the studying the case, it can
city to become a catalyst for social interactions.
be learned that Moll de la Fusta is the perfect
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
54
Reflection
it became more obvious about their purpose in
Compared to Morales and Lerner’s project
applying urban acupuncture to their respective
and theory, Casagrande’s intervention of
projects. It is intended to create site-specific
Treasure Hill is the most convincing project
solutions and achieve maximum effect from
that shows the origin of his dimension of urban
the insertion of fresh energy. By looking at
acupuncture theory. Instead of creating a new
the way they architects response to the issues
strategy for regeneration project, possible
on their respective sites, the significance of
alternatives are to revitalise an area by
the design was not central to aesthetic space
maintaining the good values or even revive the
but rather to encourage people to occupy the
place back to its balanced state so the whole
revitalised spaces. Furthermore, it is to ensure
network of urban fabric can benefit from it.
the improving quality of those spaces and
In the case of Treasure Hill, both architecture
turns the spaces to be meaningful than before.
and nature are indeed capable to produce
From the case studies, the strategy of easing
acupuncture needles and further balancing
the connection of people’s movement around
the energy flow of the site.
the city, providing more people-centric public spaces and rebalancing the energies of
After analyzing the projects by Manuel de Sola
derelict sites are proven to be effective when
Morales, Jamie Lerner and Marco Casagrande,
dealing with the context of abandoned spaces.
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Learning From Urban Acupuncture |
55
|Chapter 4
Urban Acupuncture Extended: An interview
An interview has been conducted to keep
of urban acupuncture project. His information
on exploring different dimensions of urban
on urban acupuncture practice are also backed
acupuncture in the practice on abandoned
up with his waterfront regeneration project in
spaces. The interview session was conducted
Annekanal in Tartu, Estonia. The reference of
with Professor Simon Bell and the information
his project is not intended to be a part of the
gained from the interviews will also be useful
case study but only to better elaborate the
in the discussion part of this dissertation.
inputs from the interview. The project is a part
The questions raised are based on important
of his Blue health research, under community
aspects of application of urban acupuncture
level planning. The research is based on the
on urban abandoned spaces which are not
change in usage and effect of blue urban space
explicitly remarked in the provided case
and from urban acupuncture. By creating new
studies. The outline of the interview is organised
public space by the river in Annekanal it is
to obtain linear information regarding different
hoped to increase the functionality of the site
phase of urban acupuncture. For example, in
and increase the usability of blue urban space
determining the sites, adaptability, the influence
(Bell 2018).
behind the decision making and the longevity
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Urban Acupuncture Extended
56
|Chapter 4
Riverfront regeneration project in Annekanal by Professor Bell and his team. The prepared 4 design option at the initial stage of the intervention and the designs are further discussed and developed with the local and stakeholders
Figure 28: Option A seating is suitable for group activities
When asked about the precise location for
might work on it can be identified (Bell 2018).
urban acupuncture needles, Professor Bell
In the case of abandoned, derelict and unused
believes that, urban acupuncture projects do
sites, Professor Bell suggests that it may be
not have constraints for its location and it can
relevant to create a temporary installation as a
work on any type of sites as long as it involves
test on the preferred site before progressing for
small scale intervention. The intervention could
permanent solution. This trial installation allows
either be in smaller scale in terms of resources
the designer to predict the effectiveness of the
for example the amount of funding required to
acupuncture to avoid wasting resources. For
start the project or the size of the intervention
example, Professor Bell’s urban acupuncture
in relative to the city. For most project, the
project in Annekanal has 4 design options in
choice of location is determined by a thorough
4 different part of the site and later developed
analysis on potentials location. The result of
and discussed further. This allows the design
the analysis will illustrate what is lacking from
team to recognise the perfect design that work
those locations and the kind of action that
well with the site.
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Urban Acupuncture Extended
57
|Chapter 4
Figure 29: Option B provide a long space for leaning and sunbathing, suitable for groups or individual
From the case studies it can be learnt that
aim of the projects and but when reaching at
urban acupuncture is the effective tool in
the construction stage, typical ideas and the
the revitalising abandoned spaces. Those
use physical materials are highly adaptable
projects at best can be set as a reference for
which means that they can easily be replicated.
other urban acupuncture project. However this
He suggested that the collections of recycled
argument builds up a question of adaptability
materials or objects could also be used. The
of urban acupuncture project. Can the same
ideas could be reflected in Annekanal project,
concept be replicated and applied to other
where the recurrent ideas of creating ‘sittable’
deprived areas? Professor Bell states that
spaces by the river are used in response to
every problematic space in urban fabric should
different part of the sites. Sustainable materials
ideally have its unique solution because every
such as timber is used repeatedly as the main
space has their own complexities. The main
elements to construct the benches along the
concept could be different depending on the
river (Bell 2018) .
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Urban Acupuncture Extended
58
|Chapter 4
Figure 30: Option C is the elevated platform for better view of Annekanal
Regarding the design thinking of an urban
the combinations of all those elements listed
project, Professor Bell agree that the intangible
above. In Annekanal project, the needs of
elements in a city such as socio-economic,
the stakeholders which are the locals and
cultural, historical, political and infrastructure
authority definitely influenced their design
do share their influences in the decision making
process. Before proceeding to design phase,
and design thinking behind urban acupuncture
the team has to complete rigorous analysis
intervention. However, he points out that urban
such as surveys and meetings. The analysis
acupuncture is like natural experiment that the
does indirectly help them to understand those
designers themselves do not have control over.
tangible and intangible factors and design
In reality, the final decision and design thinking
an intervention that is suitable for the local
behind the project might be influenced by
community.
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Urban Acupuncture Extended
59
|Chapter 4
Figure 31: Option D provide spaces for groups and access closer to the water for boat or fishing activities
Since the urban acupuncture projects are
However, it all depends on the context,
relatively small in nature, it is intriguing to explore
necessity and the quality of the planning.
more about the future of the projects. In order
Annekanal project for example is regarded as
to sustain the positive effect of the project to
a platform to investigate the potentials of small
the city, does it need to be revised or updated
scale interventions and produce more liveable
as the society grow and transforms? Professor
urban blue space (Bell 2018). From the project,
Bell believes that every project is designed to
the team can identify what elements worked
do a certain job which it could and should be
and what doesn’t during the intervention and
in most of the cases, be stepping stones to
use the knowledge to improve on the future
further development or larger scale investment.
and higher profile projects.
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Urban Acupuncture Extended
60
|Chapter 4
Figure 32: BlueHealth Behavioural Assesment Tool (BBAT) conducted 3 times, before and after the spatial intervention
Urban Acupuncture |Research|Urban Acupuncture Extended
61
Discussion
|Chapter 5
The research on case studies and interview
gained from an interview with a professional.
are conducted to achieve this aim of this
In order to interact with abandoned spaces, a
dissertation
successful acupuncture projects tend to have
which
is
to
create
better
understanding in the practice of urban
the following characteristic in its design:
acupuncture in the context of revitalisation of urban abandoned space. Based on the
1) Planning Intricacies
research, the overlapping key elements that
2) Auxiliary Role
appear in every case studies are emphasised
3) Interdependent Network
in this section. The elements are presumed
4) People's Collaborations
to be contributing factor in the success of all
5) The Stepping Stone
3 cases and it is also supported by the input
6) Use of Technology
Urban Acupuncture |Discussion
63
|Chapter 5
Planning Intricacies
their urban acupuncture intervention such
The projects must have the capability to
success. That means more considerations are
work in short time span and at the same time
given not just in the design and the site but
produce significant impacts on urban fabric.
also in the social behavior towards the spaces.
Although the projects are smaller in relative
Higher levels of project intricacies as shown
to the urban cities, the transformations that
by Morales, Lerner and Casagrande can only
are generated from the projects should
be achieved by profound knowledge of the
benefit the public in much bigger scale. In
site, urban fabric and all layers within it. Deep
successful urban acupuncture project, the
knowledge in urban fabric allow them to find the
outcome must outweigh the effort done on the
catalyst that can trigger the maximum outcome
revitalisation projects. To create minimal effort
from the intervention. The catalysts are then
with maximum outcome, designers must have
are used as focal point to design the project
thorough consideration on what is lacking in
intricately. Professor Bell adds that to reveal the
the chosen abandoned spaces and what does
catalyst of the transformations designers can
it take for a design to connect the people and
begin with series of surveys, discussion and
the spaces. The intricacies of the project in
experimentation on the abandoned spaces.
Barcelona, Curitiba and Taipei is what makes
Urban Acupuncture Project
Urban Catalyst
Moll de La Fusta, Barcelona
People's pathway from residential area to city centre
Opera de Arame in Pedreiras Park, Curitiba
Addition of useable green space
Treasure Hill Settlement
Urban Acupuncture |Discussion
Reflecting on the needs of people
64
|Chapter 5
Auxiliary Role
the movement of the people and automatons
Based on the case studies, it can be learned
in the city. For Pedreiras Park, the auxiliary
that urban acupuncture is about re-evaluating
function is the increase of awareness in a
places which makes this a suitable strategy to
pursuit of a sustainable city. In Treasure Hills,
be applied on abandoned spaces. The project
its additional function can be seen from the
by Morales, Lerner and Casagrande shows
simple architectural construction in reviving
that the meaning of those places emerges
the settlements. The function had given
as the result of these planning strategies.
those spaces advantages in organising social
Those projects are aimed at creating places
passages, providing new gathering places,
by concentrating and heighten the potential
and patching possible cracks in the city. It has
of the space to unleash the perfect balance
the possibility to create a fresh and distinctive
between built environment people’s activity.
focus point of interest. Besides from bringing
Therefore, urban acupuncture projects should
the community together at a new target point, it
not aim for a fixed end but instead be seen as
can produce chain reaction effects in between
a continuous process. In any cases, the spaces
the society which will attract more people
should also have mixed uses and functions.
based on their admiration of the new spaces.
In Morales, Lerner and Casagrande cases,
The Annekanal project by blue health team is
their way of creating places is by adding
seen as a continuous process because it does
auxiliary compositions to the site to improve
not stop at regeneration of the waterfront but
the existing foundation of the place that might
their ultimate vision is to investigate how the
become loose or gone. The auxiliary function
local use blue space and the effect on public
of Moll de la Fusta lies in the introduction of
health and well-being.
new architectural typologies by recognising
Urban Acupuncture |Discussion
65
|Chapter 5
Interdependent Network
those intervention project which does not have
To ensure the effect of the projects is not
boundaries and is capable to changes in a city
contained only within those abandoned
scale. However, the hardest step in choosing
spaces, the location of acupuncture needs
the spaces to intervene is to determine whether
to be precise and must lies in the city’s
the locations are interdependent networks.
interdependent network so the effects can
Not all urban abandoned spaces lie in the
ripple through entire urban network. Medical
interdependent network which means that
acupuncture appreciates the epidermis as a
abandoned spaces do not necessarily respond
rich and influential membrane on body, just
well with urban acupuncture strategy. However,
like the urban skins (M. d. Morales 2008). The
unlike the human bodies it is believed that urban
connective experiences by the city dwellers
cities are much more complex organism. The
and the architectural instruments on the
designer can organise a different installation
surface of urban context turns to some part
test for some spaces to determine the trigger
of the skins more influential than others. From
elements that can spark the changes as
the case of Moll de la Fusta, Pedreiras Park
suggested by Professor Bell. Cites are also
and Treasure Hills it is certain that all projects
constantly evolving. If in the intervention it
are situated in the interdependent network of
does not work in present time that does mean
their city. Their location at the urban meridians
it would not work in the future.
is the strong factor that explains the impacts of
Urban Acupuncture |Discussion
66
|Chapter 5
People’s Collaboration
Treasure Hills manage to reach all levels of
The project must have the ability to stimulate
participation listed above hence the led the
collaborative social interactions and people’s
interventions or acupuncture therapy to its
participation. The approach of interventions
success. By looking back at the theory of
on Moll de la Fusta, Pedreiras Park and and
urban acupuncture by Morales, Lerner and
Treasure Hill indicate that it consists the
Casagrande, they have high expectations on
elements of qualitative needs of the society
the power of people participations as they
which allow the people to arrange the spaces
believe that the people can diffuse their raw
the way they desire. In urban planning
and unique sentiments on those spaces and
paradigm, that is also known as participation
create the sense of belongings on the spaces.
planning process which can be simplified as
The foundation of project by Professor Bell and
community planning process. Community’s
his team in Annekanal itself is centered around
participation according to Boonstra en Boelens
the community level planning and wide range
(2011) has four subdivisions which features the
of meeting are held with every stakeholder so
social, spatial, economic, political level.
they project can reflect the needs and priorities.
In the context of revitalisation of abandoned spaces, Moll de la Fusta, Pedreiras Park and
The effects of community participation 4 different aspects
Urban Acupuncture |Discussion
67
|Chapter 5
The Stepping Stone
shows that the latter projects manage to cater
In urban acupuncture projects, the design
the needs of the city in bigger scope in terms of
should be allowed to improve in terms of larger
social, ecological and economical aspects. The
scale urban renewal. The urban acupuncture
later projects no longer aimed for revitalisaton
design need to have certain capacity to be
of specific urban abandoned spaces but they
developed further into more successful projects
also provide valuable spaces that can benefit
for the betterment of the city and the people.
the city in the future. Professor Bell also agrees
This argument is valid for all case studies, Moll
that the small scale projects should be regarded
de la Fusta, Pedreiras park and Treasure Hill. As
as an instrument that can be deployed and
can be seen from the illustration, the follow up
improved on so lucrative investment can be
projects from Morales, Lerner and Casagrande
made for future development project.
Moll de La Fusta
Enhancement of prime public spaces.
Opera de Arame
New social spaces via urban recycling
Treasure Hill
Revival of small sustainable settlement
Moll d' Espanya
Spaces for commercial operations, shopping and leisure (Busquets 2005).
Free University of the Environment UNILIVRE Dissemination of practices and education on sustainable urban management (Lerner n.d). Paracity
Self-organized community structures, development and knowledge buildin (Casagrande 2015).
Figure 33: Projects that are developed after the success of the first project
Urban Acupuncture |Discussion
68
|Chapter 5
The Use of Technology.
of data to be obtained in and that probably just
This particular key element is not backed up
disclosed the knowledge of the tip of the urban
by the case studies but this is an important
surfaces. Nevertheless, as the city evolves,
principle that can be learnt from the project of
so does the technologies and that could be
Annekanal by Professor Bell and his team. The
used as means to assist the designers in
advancement of technologies might not be
understanding their sites and cities extensively.
utilised by the case studies possibly because
Annekanal projects shows the attempt to use
of the inavailability of technological equipment
technological tools such as online surveys,
during the time and the condition of the site
virtual realities and soft GIS. This allows the
that only requires intimate touch straight
designers to understand the sites better and
from the designer to the locals. As mentioned
going back to first key elements, the more
repeatedly before, the condition of urban cities
knowledge the designers has on the sites, the
in this present period of time is more complex
higher the design intricacies and that will bring
than before. It requires a meticulous amount
the project closer to success.
Urban Acupuncture |Discussion
69
Conclusion
|Chapter 5
Small scale intervention as a strategy for revitalisation
abandoned
space
is
synergies in the city.
not
unprecedented and has been done and
Urban voids, which is also referred
discussed widely by many cities in the
abandoned
world. However, during the initial stage of
dissertation has proven to be a sensitive
this dissertation, it can observed that Urban
part of urban epidermis that can be healed
Acupuncture terminology is less well-known
or re-activated after the injection of urban
compared to common term encountered in
acupuncture application on it. The ‘healing’ of
this urban strategic planning, for example
urban abandoned spaces in the case studies
tactical urbanism, pop-up or ‘DIY’ urbanism. In
confirmed that those space are longing to be
urban acupunture, the goal in developing local
developed, altered or added new features and
planning initiatives are considered as ‘tactical’
activities. The spaces contained their unique
and in some extent can be seen throughout
potentials and can one way to heighten it
this research. It can be deduced that urban
is with the application of quick and small
acupuncture is the elaborated section of
scale intervention that will produce big scale
tactical urbanism, except to the addition that
effect on the areas as well as the whole
urban acupuncture dives deeper in the process
urban networks whether it is ephemeral or
of establishing dynamic relationship with
permanent.
spaces
throughout
surrounding environment to nurture creative Urban Acupuncture |Conclusion
71
as this
|Chapter 5
Limitation
get additional understanding on the practice
The research conducted throughout this
of urban acupuncture. However due to the
dissertation covers the literary studies, case
interviewee’s schedule, this session could only
studies and interview to gain the most relevant
be done via email and this reduce the efficiency
information on the topic. The way of conducting
of communication flow in both process of
the research
inquiring and answering. The amount of
is suitable with the structure
of this dissertation but they also comes with
question that can be asked is also limited
certain limitations. The theory of urban acupuncture is so much
Due to time frame and word limit of this
clearer after the projects relation to it has
dissertation, the discussion on abandoned
been studied. In earlier section, it has been
spaces only covers on the important and
made clear that the projects has used urban
general segment on the topic. The weightage
acupuncture theory in retro-perspective way.
of this research was given slightly bigger to
This could be seen as one of the limitation of
discuss about urban acupuncture compared
this research. That is why additional sources
to the topic of abandoned spaces.
from the interview and Annekanal project is also
decision was made to respond with the word
included in the dissertation to complement the
count limitation and at the same time steer this
knowledge of urban acupuncture in practice.
dissertation towards achieving the aim
That
The interview has been used as method to
"The main objective of this dissertation is to establish better knowledge in the theory of urban acupuncture and acknowledge its capability to create a positive ripple effect to regenerate abandoned spaces"
Urban Acupuncture |Conclusion
72
|Chapter 5
Additional research
urban acupuncture project by the blue health
This independent research gives an idea about
oganisation led by Professor Simon Bell.
the characteristic that every urban acupuncture project should have. This characteristic is still
As briefly mentioned above, this study needs
in need for further investigation to check on
more research on the subject of abandoned
any important key elements of application of
spaces. More example of abandoned spaces
urban acupuncture that is not discussed in
can be explored to get broad knowledge on
this dissertation. Since the extraction of key
how different types of abandoned spaces can
elements are based on retro-perspective urban
tolerate with the intensity of urban acupuncture
acupuncture project, the recommendation
interventions. It believed that more thorough
for the future research is to investigate the
research on this will add the quality of the
project worked that consciously on the
research to be used as a guideline for future
foundation of urban acupuncture theory. The
urban acupuncture project.
research can start by exploring more about
Urban Acupuncture |Conclusion
73
|Chapter 5
Urban Acupuncture and the ‘ Urban Placebo’
is certain that in some degree, the projects
effect
require the positive beliefs and perception
Going back to the medical acupuncture,
from the people in order to be successful. To
the success of the treatment in relieving
achieve the effect of ‘urban placebo’, urban
pain and physiotherapy approach has been
acupuncture projects should grasp the people’s
discussed in scientific research (White and
conviction so that the intervention can produce
Ernst 2004). Some scholars have concluded
the positive ripple effect in higher magnitude in
that the effectiveness of acupuncture therapy
urban networks.
can be explained by the ‘placebo effect’, the
The concept of ‘urban placebo’ effect is
medical term which can be associated with
appealing especially when it can be related
the phenomenon that illnesses can be cured
back to the success of urban acupuncture
through positive perception, and belief in that
project and the society, however up to this date
treatment (Deng, et al. 2015). Keeping in mind
the term ‘urban placebo’ is yet to be existed in
that the concept of urban acupuncture should
urban planning terminology. The role to verify
only be viewed metaphorically in the context of
whether this term is suitable to use alongside
urban realm, the concept behind the effect of
the theory urban acupuncture lies on the further
‘urban placebo’ in urban acupuncture should
research that can be done as the continuation
not be detested. Referring back to the case
of this dissertation.
studies with people’s participation being mutual goal for every urban acupuncture project, it
Urban Acupuncture |Conclusion
74
75
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List of Figures 1. Urban Acupuncture Source: http://needlecrowd.com/blog-agopuntura-urbana, edited by author Types of Urban Voids Source: Finding Lost Spaces.Trancik, Roger. 1986. 3. Space Leftover after planning Source: Reconsidering Spaces Left-Over After Planning Suburban opportunities for diversification and Inter-nodal developmental strategies utilising infrastructural ‘diagonals'.Kinoshita, Yohei. 2009. 4. Causes of SLOAP Source:Reconsidering Spaces Left-Over After Planning Suburban opportunities for diversification and Inter-nodal developmental strategies utilising infrastructural ‘diagonals'.Kinoshita, Yohei. 2009. 5. Industrial Ruins (1) Source: Industrial Ruins: Spaces, Aesthetics and Materiality. Edensor, Tim. 2005. 6. Industrial Ruins (2) Source: Industrial Ruins: Spaces, Aesthetics and Materiality. Edensor, Tim. 2005. 7. Houtan Park,Shanghai, Before and After Source: qofis.ccaba.upc.edu 8. The Laboratoria de Urbanismo de Barcelona Source: The vision of Manuel de Solà-Morales: Roots for a Twenty First Century Urbanism. Busquets, Joan 2013. 9. City as the turtle Source: https://mt744.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/lerner-turtle.jpg 10. Organic acupuncture in Taipei Source: http://helsinkiacupuncture.blogspot.com/ 11. Arial view of Moll de La Fusta Source: Bing Map 12. Old Moll de La Fusta Source: https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2017/10/passeig-de-colom-and-moll-de-la-fusta.html?m=1 13. Moll de La Fusta in 1992 Source: The vision of Manuel de Solà-Morales: Roots for a Twenty First Century Urbanism. Busquets, Joan 2013. 14. Ronda Literal Ring Road Source: Barcelona Revisited: Transforming the City Within the City." In Cityedge: Case Studies in Contempoarary Urbanism, e.Busquets, Joan. 2005 15. Sectional diagram of Moll de La Fusta Source: Barcelona Revisited: Transforming the City Within the City." In Cityedge: Case Studies in Contempoarary Urbanism, e.Busquets, Joan. 2005
List of Figures
16. Opera de Arame in Curitiba Source: https://blueroom.org.au/curitiba-brazil-a-sustainability-success-story/ 17. Opera de Arame Source: https://travel.sygic.com/en/poi/wire-opera-house-poi:45257 18. The structure of Opera de Arame (1) Source: https://foradatoca.com/brasil/curitiba/opera-de-arame-de-curitiba/?lang=en 19. The structure of Opera de Arame (2) Source: https://foradatoca.com/brasil/curitiba/opera-de-arame-de-curitiba/?lang=en 20. Interior of Opera de Arame Source: https://www.accorhotels.com/gb/usa/magazine/one-hour-one-day-one-week/curitiba-brazilian-pop-2b924. shtml 21. The Treasure Hill Source: https://blog.p2pfoundation.net/biourbanism-rethinking-the-science-of-space/2014/06/30 22. Casagrande's sketch on Treasure Hill Source: http://organiclayer.blogspot.com/ 23. The ongoing process on Treasure Hill (1) Source: http://organiclayer.blogspot.com/ 24.The ongoing process on Treasure Hill (2) Source: http://organiclayer.blogspot.com/ 25.The ongoing process on Treasure Hill (3) Source: http://organiclayer.blogspot.com/ 26. The ongoing process on Treasure Hill (4) Source: http://organiclayer.blogspot.com/ 27. Treasure Hill Settlement Source:https://howwegettonext.com/the-city-of-the-future-looks-like-a-former-military-bunker-in-taipei4db6dc0bf412 28. Annekanal project by Bluehealth (1) Source: https://bluehealth2020.eu/projects/anne-kanal/ 29. Annekanal project by Bluehealth (2) Source: https://bluehealth2020.eu/projects/anne-kanal/
List of Figures
30. Annekanal project by Bluehealth (3) Source: https://bluehealth2020.eu/projects/anne-kanal/ 31. Annekanal project by Bluehealth (4) Source: https://bluehealth2020.eu/projects/anne-kanal/ 32. Method of ivestigation Source: BlueHealth: Linking Up Environment, Health and Climate for Inter-Sector Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in a Rapidly Changing Environment.Bell, Simon. 2018. 33. The project continuation Source(s): http://barcelona.lpsphoto.us/en/barselona-moll-de-la-fusta, Source(s): https://www.arup.com/perspectives/urban-acupuncture, Source(s:https://howwegettonext.com/the-city-of-the-future-looks-like-a-former-military-bunker-in-taipei4db6dc0bf412 Source(s): qofis.ccaba.upc.edu Source(s):http://www.curitiba.pr.gov.br/noticias/obras-na-rampa-do-mirante-da-unilivre-ficam-prontas-para-oferiado/45022 Source(s): https://www.casagrandelaboratory.com/2014/02/28/marco-casagrande-paracity/.
Appendix Question Q1. Does abandoned spaces such as SLOAP, waterfront and industrial ruins represent the precise location for 'acupuncture needles'? What aspect should be explored to determine its perfect location? Q2. What is your opinion on the adaptability of urban acupuncture project? Can the project of be replicated to other deprived area? Q3. Does all the intangible elements in a city such socio-economic, cultural, infrastructure, historical and political influenced the decision making and design thinking behind an urban acupuncture project? Q4. Do you think that urban acupuncture projects will be effective in a long run, or does it need to be revised/updated as the society grow and transformed to sustain the effect of the project to the people and the city? Response: A1. Acupuncture does not need a specific type of site - it can be anywhere. The point is that it is a small intervention - maybe due to cost or as a starter for activating a space. Location will depend on what is needed from some kind of analysis of potential locations as well as what kind of animation might work. In the case of derelict or unused sites it may be relevant to do a temporary installation as a test before doing something more, or in any case may only possibly have a short life and not be worth a costly intervention. A2. While each place should ideally have a unique solution, in some cases typical ideas or elements could easily be replicated and recycled materials or objects could be used as well. A3. Possible all you mention but as these things are by their nature experimental do not overthink them! A4. These are designed to do a certain job and can and should in many cases be stepping stones to further development or larger scale investment - it depends on the context.