Temporary makerspaces: the transformative potential of temporary projects and productive activities in circular cities

Abstract

Abstract Cities today face multifaceted challenges, encompassing resource-depleting construction practices, outdated building stocks, and a scarcity of affordable spaces. A significant concern arises from the proliferation of unused buildings, exemplified by the 6.5 million square meter of vacant space in the Brussels Capital Region alone. This phenomenon not only threatens urban vitality and security but also results in wasted resources and economic stagnation. However, this study illuminates a transformative potential within these challenges: the emergence of temporary projects in vacant industrial buildings, organized in anticipation of future projects, as dynamic urban instruments. The in-depth case study analysis of five modern-day temporary projects in Brussels illustrated the multifaceted nature of temporary use projects. All projects breathe new life into inert structures, become testing grounds for various projects and become local meeting places. Yet, their nature and specificities vary. As such, temporary projects can become hubs of social, cultural, creative, sports, and/or productive activities, resonating with principles of the circular economy. Particularly noteworthy is the rise of makerspaces within these temporary settings, identified in Brussel’s temporary project and insured by enlarging the research scope and including four additional temporary projects. Multiple makerspaces are recurring in the analyzed temporary projects, resulting in the identification of temporary makerspace’s types: material banks, shared workspaces, various ateliers, repair cafés, and logistics. These temporary makerspaces exemplify creativity, collaboration, and circular innovation. As such, they not only put forward the practice of making, but emphasize community building, exchange, and knowledge transfer. Thus, by harnessing the potential of temporary projects and makerspaces, cities can transform neglect to vitality, fostering sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience in the urban landscape.