Public Space in Transition

1. Why did you chose this topic?

I chose this topic, as I wanted to understand how crises transform cities and public spaces in particular. Given that crises can occur anytime anywhere in any form, understanding their impact on public spaces and discussing alternative ways of providing and managing public spaces are critical.

2. What new perspectives does your book offer?

The book offers new perspectives on privately owned public spaces (POPS). Due to the private ownership, POPS are often regarded as private spaces. However, when it comes to public spaces what matters is how ›public‹ they are, and not who owns and manages them. As the case studies illustrate, POPS are an alternative way to provide and manage public spaces in transitional contexts, as the public sector lacks the capacity to do so alone.

3. What makes your topic relevant for current research debates?

The fact that we live in times of uncertainty makes the topic relevant for both theory and practice. We have seen disasters caused by climate change; we now have the pandemic and war in some parts of the world. We may have even more shocks in the coming years and decades. In addition to the field of public space governance, the topic contributes to the current debates on collaboration, resilience and crisis management.

4. Choose one person you would like to discuss your book with!

Matthew Carmona. His works on public space made me want to do research on public space governance.

5. Your book summary in one sentence:

POPS can be a good alternative if planning instruments are well crafted.