THE RIGHT TO URBAN SPACE

Abstract

The increasing effects of commodifying urban structures result in the appearance of smooth environments (Boer, 2023), which lead to static, exclusive environments in which any form of otherness or spontaneity is removed. This in turn affects important democratic processes, for spaces for commononing, negotiating and conflict in the public realm are dimnished or erased.

By exploring theories of urban depth, a solution towards Just Cities can be found in viewing the urban as a sequence of territories that that unlock a variety of spatial conditions that can serve as the spatial framework for otherness to happen. A thorough understanding of the spatial environment as well as local social structures helped inform where strategic design interventions could act as a catalyst to enrich local depth structures in the Jordaan. Consequently, local territorial conditions are met which supports the opportunity for a diversity of norms to simultaneously make a spatial claim in the public eye. As a result, space for counter-narratives are established that help challenge and deconstruct unequal power structures, as well as provide the just spatial conditions required to participate in fair democratic processes that shape ourselves, the city, and society at large.