Surveying, guiding, marking out. Walking, a tool for participatory processes in 20th century architecture and urban planning

Abstract

Walking is a recurrent and specific practice of architects and urban planners who produce projects in participation with the inhabitants of the places they are going to work on. It was at the end of the 19th century, through the writings of Patrick Geddes, that the preoccupation with involving citizens in urban projects emerged. From that moment on, walking was identified as a tool for designers and for citizens, who were accepted as connoisseurs of the terrain. It is an instrument of understanding and design, which is expressed here in three functions: surveying, guiding and marking out. Firstly, to survey in order to carry out a diagnosis, paying particular attention to the project site. Walking is an essential dimension of the thorough investigation of the context in its double scope - physical and human. The experts - who surveyed the site and carried out the investigation - will disseminate the information and proposals gathered in exhibitions, guiding the visitor as if he or she were on the spot. As for surveying, the design of the project often takes the human step as a measure. The district is designed according to the distances to be covered on foot, with the ambition of encouraging encounters and closeness. To this end, and in order to extend the participatory experience in the use and management of the project, the plan is meshed with facilities intended for gatherings. These common places are the supports for a concerted and shared management of the neighbourhood.