Urban Acupuncture: A future proof framework for cities.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES WHAT IS URBAN ACUPUNCTURE AND HOW CAN IT CREATE SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES TO REGENERATE CITIES?

MADISON TAYLOR SACRAMONE

Master of Science (Advanced Sustainable Design) Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture The University of Edinburgh Dissertation 2021

www.maditaylordesigns.com

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ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT The urbanization of the planet is irreversible; therefore it is essential to formulate methods for urban planning and regeneration which allow cities to grow and adapt with current circumstances. Cities are complex energy organism, much like the humans themselves who create them. Cities, like humans are alive, meaning they also can fall to illnesses caused by over population, urban sprawl, and industrialization. By viewing the urban skin in microcomponents planners and designers have the capacity to design solutions with a bottom-up approach. This dissertation aims to define the theory Urban Acupuncture and discover how it can be developed into a design framework, allowing it to become more accessible as a collaborative tool between professionals and the public. Urban Acupuncture is a bio-urban theory which describes the city as a skin and suggests methods for intervention to promote healing via urban regeneration with micro interventions that have maximal impacts. The theory was pioneered by architect and urbanist, Manuel de Solà-Morales, as a theory for urban regeneration. This method is contrary to large-scale regenerative planning as it focuses on small-scale and localized resources.

Multiple methods were used to first study the concept and evolution of Urban Acupuncture and then to discover strategies which inform a guided framework. Qualitative research was collected via observational research inspired by research methods of autoethnography. The methodology makes recommendations for how to contextualize urban spaces in order to identify sensitive spots to pinpoint Urban Acupuncture interventions.

The research resulted in a holistic guided framework which has the potential to integrate and elevate urban planning and design practices. Unlike similar frameworks addressed in the study, the Urban Acupuncture Framework provides a step-by-step process for applying minimal interventions for wider impact with relevant tools. It provides professionals and citizens with the tools to face urban deficiencies to promote future-proof interventions.

Ultimately, this framework diverges from traditional planning and cultural norms by analyzing socio-spatial relationships in cities to create lasting impact and empower communities through collaboration, all while following a minimally strategic approach.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE

1

ABSTRACT

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3

LIST OF FIGURES

4

TERMINOLOGY & DEFINITIONS

7

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 1.1 Overview

9

CHAPTER 2: THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

13

1.2 Aims and Objectives 1.3 Structure

2.1

2.2

2.3

2.4

2.3

What is Urban Acupuncture?

Urban acupuncture and the interdependent scales, from micro to macro.

A valuable strategy for urban regeneration.

The evolution of urban acupuncture as a theory.

Existing strategies for reassessing urban spaces in preparation of regeneration.

2.5.1 Assessment of spatial qualities.

2.5.2 Filtering framework for selecting urban acupuncture points.

2.5.3 Time-based approached.

CHAPTER 3: URBAN ACUPUNCTURE; A CATALYST FOR

URBAN REGENERATION.

3.1 The Triple Bottom Line; key catalysts for sustainable regeneration.

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CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

35

3.1.1 Social 3.1.2 Economic 3.1.3 Environmental

3.2 Urban acupuncture is the most effective in comparison.

4.1

4.2

4.3

Methodology Overview Secondary research; desk study.

Primary research; fieldwork.

4.3.1 What is autoethnography and how does it relate to design practice?

4.3.2 Preliminary planning of fieldwork.

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS 5.1 Key Findings

51

CHAPTER 6: DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION

70

CHAPTER 7: REFERENCES

73

CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

79

5.2 5.3

8.1 8.2

The Urban Acupuncture Framework Application of the Framework; developing a design proposal for Leith.

Appendix 1; Methodology toolkit & systematic procedure for fieldwork.

Appendix 2; Methodology Research Portfolio 3

LIST OF FIGURES

LIST OF

FIGURES Figure 1.1 - Structure of dissertation, diagram. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 2.1 - Original layout of Salisbury courts Source: Geddes, P. (1915). Cities in evolution : an introduction to the town planning movement and to the study of civics. Williams & Norgate. (p. 6) Figure 2.2 - Later haphazard building over gardens Source: Geddes, P. (1915). Cities in evolution : an introduction to the town planning movement and to the study of civics. Williams & Norgate. (p. 7) Figure 2.3 - Conceptual Framework Source: Ewing, Reid, & Handy, Susan. (2009). Measuring the Unmeasurable: Urban Design Qualities Related to Walkability. Journal of Urban Design.

Figure 2.4 - The Place Standard Tool Source: Place Standard; Strategic Plan 2020-2023. (2020).

PlaceStandard.scot.

Figure 2.5 - Different aspects of human-centered public space Source: Adapted by Madison Sacramone – Original by Nassar, U. A. (2021). Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal. Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs. (p. 4-5) Figure 2.6 - Principles and strategies for urban acupuncture Source: Adapted by Madison Sacramone – Original by Nassar, U. A. (2021). Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal. Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs.(p.6) Figure 2.7 - Sensitive spot selection and filtering framework for applying urban acupuncture Source: Nassar, U. A. (2021). Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal. Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs.

Figure 2.8 - The Three Track Approach illustrated Source: Loeckx, André. (2004). Urban trialogues: visions, projects, co-productions. UN-HABITAT. Figure 2.9 - Strategy Phases Relating Actors Involved, Type and Location of Interventions and Citizen Participation Source: Casanova, H., Hernández Jesús, Devesa, R., & Bunning, A. K. (2014). Public space acupuncture: strategies and interventions for activating city life.

Figure 3.1 - Treasure Hill 1 Source: Casagrande, Marco. “Treasure Hill.” Casagrande Laboratory.

April 07, 2016. https://www.casagrandelaboratory.com/portfolio/treasure-hill.

Figure 3.2 – Treasure Hill 2 Source: Casagrande, Marco. “Treasure Hill.” Casagrande Laboratory.

April 07, 2016. https://www.casagrandelaboratory.com/portfolio/treasure-hill.

Figure 3.3 – Comparison between UA, Large and Small-Scale Urban Renewal. Source: Adapted from ‘Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal’ by Nassar, 2017, Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs, p. 3.

Figure 4.1 – Research Methodology Overview. Source: Madison Sacramone - Referenced: ‘Social Research Methods’ by Bryman, 2012, p. 384 (Main steps of qualitative research).

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

Figure 4.2 – Table summarizing the conclusions drawn from the literature review. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 4.3 – Categories to consider in fieldwork. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 4.4 – Opportunities & Challenges of autoethnography as a design methodology for urban acupuncture. Source: Madison Sacramone.

Figure 4.5 – Process Outline for Site Selection. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 4.6 - Selection of Sensitive Spots, determine the feasibility of a site. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 4.7 – Community-lead Garden example of UA in Leith, Edinburgh Source; Image by Madison Sacramone Figure 4.8 – Example of reused and local material, UA in Leith, Edinburgh Source; Image by Madison Sacramone Figure 5.1 - Three key findings from qualitative research. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.2 - The Urban Acupuncture Framework, Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.3 - The Urban Acupuncture Framework, Explained. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.4 - Summary of key site observations from qualitative research method. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.5 - Existing conditions of site, micro-scale. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.6- Objectives & Potential design solutions. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.7 - The Vision; example quick action plan for New Kirkgate intervention. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.8- Phase 1 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.9- Phase 2 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.10- Phase 3 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.11- Phase 4 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.12- Before intervention. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.13- After intervention. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.14 - Existing conditions of site, micro-scale. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 5.14 - Fully illustrated intervention, view from above. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.1 - Annotated example of systematic fieldnotes. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.2 - Fieldnote layout guide. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.3 – Map showing the adjacent for Edinburgh center to Leith. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

Figure 8.4 – Top and Bottom of Leith Walk Source: Images by Madison Sacramone.

Figure 8.5 – Aerial view of site. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

Figure 8.6 – Comparison of 1910s (left) and 1970s (right) Historic Map of the Leith Site. Source: Digimap Online Database, Historic Roam.

Figure 8.7 – Conservation areas in Leith. Source: “Leith Conservation Area Character Appraisal,” The

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LIST OF FIGURES

City of Edinburgh Council, p. 4.

Figure 8.8 – Image of South Leith Parish Church present day. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.9 – Image of early 20th century view of Leith’s Kirkgate and Trinity House Source: Adaptled from “Lost Edinburgh: Old Kirkgate recalled” by The Newsroom, Edinburgh News, 2017.

Figure 8.10 – Image of Trinity House of Leith present day. Source: Historic Environment Scotland Database Figure 8.11 – Image of Linksview House Present Day, view from site. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.12 – Environmental and Climatic Conditions in Leith. Source: Adapted from Average Weather in Edinburgh, Weather Spark.

Figure 8.13 – Maps showing Population Demographics. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

Figure 8.14 – Maps showing local Household Demographics. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

Figure 8.15 – Maps showing UK Born Demographics. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

Figure 8.16 – Maps showing levels of Multiple Deprivations in Leith. Source: Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation, 2020.

Figure 8.17 – Sketch Drawing Site Vignettes. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.18 – Site Photographs. Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.19 – Video and Audio Recording, https://youtu.be/jxhE5MnDdig . Source: Madison Sacramone Figure 8.20 – Comparison Household Demographics with and without cars. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

Figure 8.21 – Comparison Household Demographics Health Impact. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

Figure 8.22 – Analytical map of site circulations. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

Figure 8.23 – Analytical map of site activity. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

Figure 8.24 – Analytical map of nearby amenities and services. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

TERMINOLOGY &

DEFINITIONS Consider these definitions as they relate to this dissertation; Urban Acupuncture (UA) a bio-urban theory which describes the city as a skin and suggests methods for intervention to promote healing via urban regeneration with micro interventions that have maximal impacts.

Urban Regeneration The redevelopment of an area in need of long-term improvement, often places effected by urban decay.

Urban Voids Places in a city which are categorized as unused, poorly used or having the potential to be improved.

Urban Decay This occurs when a previously functioning part of a city falls to disrepair and may cause social, economic and environmental degradation.

Quality of Life (QOL) a term used to describe the state of a person’s wellbeing dependent upon environmental, financial, psychological, physiological, interpersonal, and spiritual health factors.

Chi the general life source of all living organisms and in this case, Chi applies to cities because they are living entities with multiple layers of energetic forces.

Autoethnography a qualitative research method which describes cultural contexts from a first-person lens and relies on the descriptive analysis of “self” and “others.”

Intervention the action or process of interfering with the outcomes, especially to improve the function of and prevent further harm. In this paper interventions refer to the location of an Urban Acupuncture point.

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1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION This chapter will provide an overview of the topic, urban acupuncture, and its relevance in this dissertation followed by aims and objectives. The structure of the dissertation is also explained for the reader’s comprehension.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

1.1 OVERVIEW With more than half of the world’s population living in cities, and the other half increasingly dependent on cities for their economic survival and livelihood, urban centers have become the epicenter for social, economic and environmental regeneration (Loeckx et al., 2004). As population rates in cities continue to rise, new revitalization strategies must be developed to first assess said urban spaces and then intervene with design. Rapid and uncontrolled urbanization is causing (urban) decay, which occurs when a previously functioning part of a city falls to disrepair.

Urban interventions, which are methodologies that build on what already exists, appear to be more efficient and effective vs expansion and enlargement, of which is a common misstep that occurs during large-scale redevelopment. Because of this, flexible design solutions warrant further study to determine their capacity to transform modern day urbanity. Additionally, in times of economic crisis, quality of life (QOL) for city dwellers tends to be greatly compromised, and what this calls for is an immediate, yet minimally invasive response (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014).

Urban acupuncture (UA) is an urbanism theory which aims to restructure a city’s energy (environmentally, socially and economically) by imposing small-scale designs for maximal impact to preserve natural resources and increase QOL of occupants effected by large-scale developments and population expansion (Al-Hinkawi & Al-Saadi, 2020). It is based on ancient traditions of Chinese medicinal acupuncture, in that a small pin prick can stimulate healing throughout the whole body, or rather in this case the city (Casagrande, 2013).

Healing of the urban skin, which is the man-made layer of a city, can only occur by first identifying its voids and then assessing the essence of a place. This is essential when attempting to understand the dynamic that currently exists between an urban center’s positive and negative relationships. Since cities have become models for pioneering and development strategies, it is important to bring UA to the forefront of the methods utilized. This is because it has the capacity to be a catalyst for the sustainable regeneration and future-proofing of the world’s urban centers.

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.2

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This dissertation aims to address the following research question; What is urban acupuncture and how can it create sustainable strategies to regenerate cities?

This dissertation evaluates the regenerative qualities of UA, investigates the theory, and aims to transform it into a method for urban re-development. The foundational research is accomplished through the following analytical questions:

• • • • • •

What is UA? How did it emerge as a theory and who are the key contributors?

How is UA a useful tool for urban regeneration?

What models and methods exist?

What is the value of contextualizing a place in UA designs?

How can a framework for UA benefit the urban design process?

These questions aim to reach the following conclusion: Urban acupuncture is a catalyst for solving issues facing cities and a framework for implementing the theory as a strategy will make it more attainable in the name of futureproofing urban centers and empowering communities.

1.3

STRUCTURE

This dissertation will explore the theory of UA and construct a guided framework for applying the theory to an urban development methodology. This will make it more attainable for designers, developers, and policymakers to use as a tool for collaborative and gradual regeneration. A common theme in UA theory is the comprehensive understanding of place, with various methods existing for evaluating the quality of an urban environment. Unfortunately, there is also little guidance on sociospatial analysis in designing significant interventions. To address this, autoethnography is a tool that will later be proposed to help immerse a designer into cultural contexts. Application of ethnographic techniques to architecture and urban disciplines is relatively new, and yet it presents added value to UA methodologies (Chun & Twose, 2019).

Each chapter in this dissertation will build upon the previous and incorporate the reader’s knowledge and understanding of UA. The research addressing the previous questions (see 1.2 Aims and Objectives) and subsequent hypothesis will be conducted in three parts. First, a literature review will

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

RESEARCH QUESTION What is urban acupuncture and how can it create sustainable strategies to regenerate cities?

FIELDWORK

DOCUMENT

Auto-ethnography study to contextualize place, case study analysis of Edinburgh, UK.

Contextualize place through multi-media drawing, sound, photography, video.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE THEORY

POTENTIAL FOR URBAN REGENERATION

What is it?

How has it evolved?

DESIGN PROPOSAL the framework will influence a design proposal for Edinburgh, UK.

OUTCOMES

LITERATURE REVIEW

ANALYSIS OF FINDINGS

Pioneers of urban acupuncture, existing principles and strategies

Study on the value of contextualizing place and what it has informed about urban acupuncture.

DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE FRAMEWORK guide for implementing urban acupuncture in cities.

Figure 1.1 – Structure of dissertation, diagram. Source: Madison Sacramone

analyze the theory of UA and how it has been transferred from ancient Chinese medicine to the hand of pioneering architect and urbanist, Manuel de Solà-Morales, as a theory for urban regeneration.

Secondly, a qualitative analysis performed by the author using observational research derived from autoethnography as a tool will guide the contextualization of the urban environment. The author herself will engage in field work to undergo this process of immersion in a case study located in Edinburgh, UK. Thirdly, the findings will formulate a detailed, guided framework for applying UA and will demonstrate the framework in an urban design proposal for Edinburgh, UK to verify its merit.

Conclusions will be based on the findings with key points presented for discussion. It is recognized that there is not just one solution to enact the regeneration of cities but, it will be argued that UA has the capacity for the most immediate and widespread impact.

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2

CHAPTER 2

THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE Urban acupuncture as a theoretical concept is explored through the work of leading researchers in the field. Existing strategies relating to urban regeneration are reviewed for their relevance and added value to urban acupuncture.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

2.1

WHAT IS URBAN ACUPUNCTURE?

The city is a sensitive environment that must be nurtured, UA is a theory which when applied to urban contexts, it promotes organic and sustainable growth by empowering urban relationships. UA is an urban environmentalism theory which combines urban design with the traditional Chinese medicinal theory of acupuncture (Casagrande, 2013). The term (itself) was first introduced by urban designer and architect, Manuel de Solà-Morales in 1983, as he studied the evolution and civic form of Barcelona, Spain. He dreamt of the possibility to one day intervene as an urbanist and so he did rise as a leader in urbanity and contemporary architecture (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). His approach to creating solutions for the urban environment was anti-bureaucratic, the ethos of his work was not in the planning of the city but in the stimulative effects on urbanism caused by minimal points of intervention for maximal impact (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). In recent years, Finish architect, Marco Casagrande, has led continued research on UA, it has since been adopted by a variety of urban theorists, architects and designers (Yimeng, 2015).

In the book “A Matter of Things,” Solà-Morales refers to the city as a skin and in traditional acupuncture treatment, skin is appreciated as a complex and enormously influential membrane which effects the whole body (Solà-Morales et al., 2008).

“The ancient oriental practice of acupuncture regards the skin of the human body as the principal energy transport system, with 361 sensitive points scattered over the surface of the body transmitting their sensory impressions to the rest of the organism, exterior and interior by means of twelve meridians or pathways.” (Solà-Morales et al., 2008, p. 24).

The therapy is grounded in the belief that imbalances are the fundamental cause of disease and by triggering sensitive points in the epidermis, the larger network or the body can then begin to heal.

Similarly, UA views urbanity as the skin which is treated by relieving small parts to revitalize the whole (Casagrande, 2013). The designer plays the role of practitioner or healer by treating the urban environment, like in medicinal acupuncture, with determining needle placement being the first step of the treatment. The key to successful UA is assessing the relative conditions of the city to identify the most appropriate and sensitive point to redistribute energy (Landry, 2005).

The careful understanding of cause and effect is integral to the process, for example, Chinese experts say that actions performed on the ear will have beneficial effects on the lung or the knee (Yimeng,

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CHAPTER 2: THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

2015). Jamie Lerner was a Brazilian politician and urban planner who considered himself an urban healer of sorts, saying “I have always nurtured the dream and the hope that with the prick of a needle, diseases may be cured,” but this was just a notion of hope (Lerner, 2014, p. 1). Lerner enforces that planning for change is a process yet, no matter how good a plan may be, it is the spark that spreads immediate change (Lerner, 2014). As a practitioner to the urban environment, understanding the ripple effect is paramount when planning an intervention. For a spark to form it is essential to understand the flow of energy within a city. If we view the city as Casagrande did, the city is a “multi-dimensional sensitive energy-organism, a living environment,” then there is a general life force that is constantly circulating (Elkjær, 2010). Chinese philosophers refer to this life force as Chi, and when this energy is unbalanced, there is risk of disease. Acupuncture can rebalance Chi to heighten the healthy potential of an area (Yimeng, 2015). The theory of UA relates to the complexity of relationships embedded in a lively city and it is the deep understanding of these relationships that help us as designers to predict the sensitive points of intervention to harness maximal energy forces for regeneration.

2.2

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE AND THE INTERDEPENDENT SCALES, FROM MICRO TO MACRO.

Micro, meso and macro environments are valuable means for evaluating a city and have direct impact on the successful development of urban conditions. They are aggregate forces which may facilitate sustainable development or create constraints (Zavadskas, et al., 2004). The scales should be viewed with a bottom-up systematic perspective, the macro-environment (the general location) is viewed in components (Dopfer et al., 2004). Micro elements should be considered as prerequisites for how a place will perform and influence the meso-environment (the immediate surroundings), the contributions of these two scales form the large-scale, macro relationships within the city (Varna, 2014). There is an intrinsic relationship between macro and micro, “the sum of micro is macro, and the decomposition of macro is micro,” the meso is an intermediate force (Dopfer et al., 2004, p. 264).

In terms of UA the micro-scale is the starting point to ignite an intervention as a catalyst which will eventually spread across the meso and macro scales. As an analogy to the human body, the individual acupuncture points which penetrate the skin are the micro-scale, the bodily systems composed of twelve meridians or pathways are the meso-scale and the human body, the living organism in whole is the macro-scale. The effectiveness of an acupuncture point relies on the understanding of variable relationships between the micro, meso and macro environments for optimal impact on the city (Zavadskas, et al., 2004).

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

UA is widely characterized as “small-scale” interventions with large impact but, there is no precise dimension defining UA. So, how big is small? According to Solà-Morales, each scale should be viewed simultaneously, “viewing the kilometer and centimeter at once,” paints a clear image of the whole (Solà-Morales et al., 2008, p. 18). The success of an acupuncture point is not dependent on the physical size of the design but, the careful execution of it. The focus is not the physical scale, it is the interdependent system (Yimeng, 2015). By evaluating the city at a micro, meso and macro scale, disconnected areas become evident. As an environmental therapy UA treats voids in the city by filling them with elements which make the city cohesive and better connected across dimensions (Lerner, 2014). These voided spaces can be as simple as a set of stairs or a ramp on a micro scale, as Casagrande said, “in them we feel with our weight the shape and size of the city,” meaning, these intimate, transitional micro spaces mold character and form our impressions of a city on the macroscale (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). It is evident that the physical scale of an acupuncture point is relative to the circumstances and needs of a specific city and the relationships that form from micro to macro.

While there is no parameter for physical size, a “small-scale” is not purely determined by size, it also considers financial input and ability for rapid intervention (Nassar, 2021). With a bottom-up approach, UA targets a specific area to solve a wider agenda by redirecting community energy in a positive way (Casagrande, 2013). A bottom-up approach focuses on the breakdown of key underlying problems (micro as a starting point) as a fundamental plan to integrate into the whole, in this case the overarching issues (Lemes de Oliveira et al., 2019). Contrary to this is the top-down approach, the focus is first on the big problem (macro as a starting point), this is causing desolate efforts at problem solving such as, mega-interventions which typically require heavy investments of municipal funds (Casagrande, 2013). The bottom-up approach allows for more flexibility in the evolution of an intervention point, temporality, expandability, and adaptability is encouraged as this allows for immediate intervention and assessment of impact (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). UA has the unique ability to respond almost immediately to complications in urbanity. The emerging challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic are exemplary of the increasing need to pursue efficient and fast-pace urban development (Nassar, 2021). Traditional strategies focus on the macro scale and do not have the capacity to address core issues, UA can be a tool that assists designers in addressing the micro scale and therefore fostering healthier cities (Nassar, 2021). By looking at the micro and the macro scale at once, designers and planners can formulate unique systematic and interdependent responses to issues facing cities.

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CHAPTER 2: THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

2.3

A VALUABLE STRATEGY FOR URBAN REGENERATION

The urbanization of the planet has become an irreversible phenomenon, the future relies on how we proceed with the development of our cities (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). Rapid growth in cities is causing stress to the urban environment and creating areas of urban sprawl, this refers to a city’s increasing land take and it may cause desolate areas to form in a city, instead we should work within the parameters of the existing (Suzuki et al., 2013). Acupuncture relieves stress in the human body, applied to cities it can relieve environmental and social stressors by fostering significant connections.

Cities have become disconnected from nature, they are the outermost layer of the planet, industrial shells built on top of nature’s soil. The city is an epidermis fallen ill to issues that include pollution, hierarchical societies, government policy, poor health, and a damaged sense of well-being… Not only has man lost the inherit relationship to nature, with it the value of interdependence has disappeared in the depths of urbanity (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). Marco Casagrande describes UA as a method for bio-urban healing and development to connect modern man with nature, “every blade of grass penetrating concrete in a city is urban acupuncture,” (Elkjær, 2010, q. 3). UA aims to repair the cracks that have formed from industrial tension by filling the existing damage with stimulating interventions, rather than replacing the old with something new (Casagrande, 2019). Regeneration may begin when a city is reconnected, UA is the link.

2.4

THE EVOLUTION OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE AS A THEORY.

UA is a theory that has come forth in recent years, but, it is not an entirely original conception.

Although Manuel de Solà-Morales is regarded as ‘the father’ of UA, Patrick Geddes was one of many predecessors with similar ideas. Geddes was a Scottish biologist, sociologist, philanthropist, and geographer, well-known for his pioneering work during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in urban planning. His claim to fame was the regeneration of Old Town, Edinburgh following the urban decay after the building of New Town (Hysler-Rubin, 2011; MacPherson, 2020). Like the ideas of Solà-Morales and other theorists, Geddes held a deep understanding of the complex and interconnected variables of civic change (Hysler-Rubin, 2011). There are historic relationships in cities and the most successful urban planners have condoned them as indicators for development. Research conducted throughout Geddes’ career informed his belief that the development of human communities is biological, consisting of interactions among people, their environment, and activities (Hysler-Rubin, 2011).

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

A common theme among UA theorists is the value in comprehensive understandings of the urban environment, as well as the relationship of the city to the region. Patrick Geddes believed in contextualizing a place, he said, “diagnosis before treatment,” this is a method which parallels the work of Solà-Morales and Casagrande (Geddes, 1915). Manuel de Solà-Morales proposes the process of UA firstly by acknowledging the urban reality (the diagnosis), secondly to discover the matters of the city and thirdly, to better rearrange the matters (the treatment) (Yimeng, 2015). Casagrande’s methods describe the procedure as determining the “sensitive flows,” (the diagnosis) in reference to the Chi, or energy force in the city and then place the acupuncture point (the treatment). He also stresses the importance of analyzing the relationship of designer and community (Elkjær, 2010). It is evident that these theorists have similar concepts of UA but, each has pivoted the essence of the other, making the evolution of the theory stronger.

While researchers before his time did have similar methods of treating a city, Solà-Morales built upon them and coined the term UA. UA has evolved as a theory primarily from continued research on the work of Manuel de Solà-Morales, and developed by key researchers such as Marco Casagrande, Jaime Lerner, Helena Casanova & Jesus Hernandez. Each have individual notions on the theory as it has been applied to their concept and field of work. Solà-Morales’ ideas did not fall victim to the usual rigid methods of urban planning, his approach encouraged creativity and exploration to solve interconnected problems and encourage behavior changes by imagining the city as a skin (SolàMorales et al., 2008). Marco Casagrande builds on this concept but, his work was focused on the belief that nature wants to exist maximally so, he treated the city as an organic system where man lives with nature (Casagrande, 2019). Jaime Lerner adopted UA as a method to regenerate Brazil during his time as a politician, his work centered around social strategies and the profound impact of citizen participation (Lerner, 2014). Casanova and Hernandez relate their work in UA to the value of public spaces for community participation, using time-based approaches and strategies for place making in cities (Casanova, Hernandez, 2014). The core theory of UA remains a constant among these researchers in that small-scale interventions provide the key connections needed to regenerate cities.

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CHAPTER 2: THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

2.5

EXISTING STRATEGIES FOR REASSESSING URBAN SPACES IN PREPARATION OF REGENERATION.

Figure 2.1 - Original layout of Salisbury courts Source: Geddes, P. (1915). Cities in evolution : an introduction to the town planning movement and to the study of civics. Williams & Norgate. (p. 6)

Figure 2.2 – Later haphazard building over gardens Source: Geddes, P. (1915). Cities in evolution : an introduction to the town planning movement and to the study of civics. Williams & Norgate. (p. 7)

Strategies for planning connections in cities have existed for thousands of years and they represent how humans have lived relevant to place and time. For example, many early planned cities were developed from a grid, and while this may have been efficient at the time, developments must be forward thinking for long-term sustainability. Patrick Geddes critiques cities with this issue, such as Salisbury, England. While the original intentions for the gridded garden city were good, as populations increased, overcrowding created “haphazard building over gardens,” consequently creating gardenless slums (Figure 2.1 & 2.2) (Geddes, 1915). The modern city is in a constant state of flux, always evolving with time. As our cities continue to expand, we must redirect and control their development for sustainable growth. It is important to reference successful strategies to make them widely accessible to designers and developers for adaptation world-wide. These strategies can range from simple to complex based on the scope of an intervention. While UA does not have a stringent framework, similar models do exist and are valuable to further our knowledge on how to optimize regenerative qualities. By referencing the recommended strategies by Solà-Morales, such as immersing into the place to identify the acupuncture point and realizing the problems of that area, we can develop a treatment to adapt to contexts in various cities (Solà-Morales et al., 2008).

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

2.5.1 ASSESSMENT OF SPATIAL QUALITIES.

It is evident that contextualizing a place is of the utmost importance when applying the theory of UA. As designers we apply a series of tools to assess the distinctive characteristics of a place. Principles in New Urbanism suggest that walkability, connectivity, sustainable transportation, density, mixed land use and mixed housing optimize “livability” and the attractiveness of urban life, and therefore the measure is QOL (Cysek-Pawlak, 2018). UA can introduce these elements to a city where one might already exist the other can be fulfilled, together they create urban identity and therefore long-term success across multiple sectors. Frameworks such as the “15-Minute City” and the “Place Standard Tool” have gained popularity in recent years as valuable sets of principles to effectively assess and implement change to make cities more efficient for people and the environment.

The QOL for city dwellers is often measured by proximity to daily needs and activities (CysekPawlak, 2018). Although conceptually different from UA, the 15-Minute City is a valuable theory for how this model promotes wellbeing. It relates to scale and the bottom-up approach, by focusing on the localization of amenities in small areas within the city (an approximate 15-minute diameter by bicycle), the positive implications of this method can range from mental health benefits to reduced carbon emissions (Pozoukidou, Chatziyiannaki, 2021). This method for city planning has come to light during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people realized the amount of time Figure 2.3 – Conceptual Framework Source: Ewing, Reid, & Handy, Susan. (2009).

Measuring the Unmeasurable: Urban Design Qualities Related to Walkability. Journal of Urban Design.

they previously spent commuting to and from work and amenities. The

15-minute city aims at localizing city life by reconnecting people to their neighborhoods, “bring activities to the neighborhoods and not people to the activities” (Pozoukidou, Chatziyiannaki, 2021).

Reconstructing proximity will influence urbanites to walk and cycle more.

By measuring the QOL we can promote better connected, active communities. Researchers have conceptualized a framework for “measuring the unmeasurable,” and that is a person’s perception of a place (Figure 2.3) (Ewing & Handy, 2009). The framework informs how physical characteristics of 19

CHAPTER 2: THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

the street environment may influence a person’s use of a place, and it bridges a relationship between the physical environment and human behavior (Ewing & Handy, 2009). While the framework is an exploratory tool for an individual to complete based on their subjective experience of a place, it is recognized that there is still value in understanding the power a specific location possesses (Ewing & Handy, 2009). In UA, humans are referred to as the Chi, for people are the cause of the constant flow of energy. The ability to assess and redirect that energy is thought to be vital to regenerating cities (Casagrande, 2019). By understanding the psychological impact that stems from the physical characteristics of a place, we can design with better knowledge of what channels the Chi in cities, or what governs urbanites. The idea of proximity, quality and a person’s relationship to space is important to consider when applying UA to cities.

The Place Standard tool is an advancement of these guiding principles (Figure 2.4). The tool was developed in Scotland to create opportunities for communities to flourish from wellbeing and sustainable economic growth through targeted place-based research preformed collaboratively (Place Standard, 2020). Like the 15-minute city and the framework for rating walkability, this tool assesses QOL and emphasizes the importance of localization to optimize human and environmental wellbeing. While the previous framework by Ewing & Handy’s fails to be accessible to the wider public (this framework was only used by expert researchers, designers and developers who could understand the concepts), the Place Standard Tool has a clear guide and verbiage that is easily understood by the public (Place Standard, 2020; Ewing & Handy, 2009). The “place” is referred to on a micro-scale, and by regenerating small areas, the influence will accumulate on a macro, international scale.

The tool is inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Figure 2.4 – The Place Standard Tool Source: Place Standard; Strategic Plan 20202023. (2020). PlaceStandard.scot.

20

goals (Place Standard, 2020), and provides prompts for discussion to

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

help communities think about the physical elements of a place as well as the social aspects. This methodological approach to evaluating place is addressed in 14 categories which are further explained through an online database collecting information for wider research (Place Standard, 2020). The essence of a framework such as this is valuable to apply in UA theory because it helps to pinpoint the assets a location possesses, and where there is room for improvement. The ability to contextualize a place informs where opportunities can rise versus other influences which limit potential. Casagrande emphasizes the value in a relationship between “designer and community,” the role of collaboration in these frameworks highlighting a unique opportunity for public participation. In turn, this creates a stronger relationship between human and city (Casagrande, 2013).

2.5.2 FILTERING FRAMEWORK FOR SELECTING URBAN ACUPUNCTURE POINTS. To choose the best strategy and location for UA specific criteria must be met. Additionally, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of an area, like the previous methods outlined, may inform the decisions made during the design and development stages. Dr. Usama A. Nassar is one of few researchers to attempt a filtering framework to apply the UA approach in large cities, while previous works have little guidance on how to realistically implement UA as a method (Nassar, 2021). The framework aims to provide quick and effective strategies and principles for selecting suitable spots for UA while filtering places with maximal potential. Nassar addresses the key criteria for human-centered public space which is divided into two aspect categories, spatial and socio-spatial (Figure 2.5) (Nassar, 2021). It is suggested that where spaces are more walkable, safe, accessible, and sociable, UA is more effective (Nassar, 2021). The individual aspects align with the common theme of accessibility and

throughout

Figure 2.5 – Different aspects of human-centered public space Source: Adapted by Madison Sacramone – Original

by Nassar, U. A. (2021). Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal. Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs. (p.4-5)

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CHAPTER 2: THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

Figure 2.6 – Principles and strategies for urban acupuncture Source: Adapted by Madison Sacramone – Original by Nassar, U. A. (2021). Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal. Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs.(p.6)

Figure 2.7 - Sensitive spot selection and filtering framework for applying urban acupuncture Source: Nassar, U. A. (2021).

Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal.

Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

citizen interaction previously addressed in the 15-Minute City model, the conceptual framework for measuring walkability, and the Place Standard Tool (Pozoukidou, Chatziyiannaki, 2021; Ewing & Handy, 2009; Place Standard, 2020). These aspects are important to improve relationships between users and public space (Nassar, 2021). The aspects for spatial and community relationships are relevant for their interconnectedness and long-term success of existing cities but, it is Nassar’s framework that is unique in the way it executes an approach using the principles and strategies of UA to locate the precise pinpoint. There are aspects of spatial and community relationships that are relevant for their interconnectedness and long-term success of existing cities, but, it is Nassar’s framework that is unique in the way it executes an approach using the principles and strategies of UA to locate the precise pinpoint. Said principles are what is required of a prosperous acupuncture point (the constant) and each principle is accomplished by two or more strategies (the variables) which will differ in unique sites (Figure 2.6) (Nassar, 2021). The sensitive spots, where these principles and strategies are applied, are located using Nassar’s “filtering framework” to address whether UA is suitable for a given location (Figure 2.7).

The filters work in a funnel-like manner, ranging from broad site requirements to those that are more specific. In filter 4 the sensitive spot is evaluated using the key aspects of public space and this seamlessly filters to the strategy selection in filter 5. The aspects, strategies and principles accumulate to deliver a precise point for intervention and proposes a starting point for conversation on what the design of the acupuncture point may entail (Nassar, 2021).

2.5.3 TIME-BASED APPROACHES

UA relies on small interventions to create big impact, with a time-based approach being essential to formulate a quick action plan that ignites the spark of lasting change (Nassar, 2021). The methods previously outlined suggest what a city requires for high QOL, tools for assessing these qualities, and how to begin the process of applying UA to the citified skin. The following frameworks address the process of sustainable integration over a period.

It is a misconception that the regeneration of a city requires large initial investment costs and resources. The approach for urban regeneration has previously been master planning, which entailed land-use planning and often unrealistic assessments of limited resources and rapid change (Loeckx et al., 2004). The UN Habitat has created a “Three Track Approach” for balancing the vison-building

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CHAPTER 2: THE CONCEPT OF URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

and policy-making process, which combines long-term objectives with short-term solutions which consider rapid change and resource limitations (Figure 2.8) (Loeckx et al., 2004). The three tracks are as follows; vision aims to develop a long-term vision for the desired future, development path and structure of the city; action addresses the formulation and implementation of daily actions including testing, training and feedback; communication/participation involves stakeholders in vision-building, planning and decision-making, it aims to solve disputes among different levels of civic society by creating urban development alliances and platforms for continued programs and projects (Loeckx et al., 2004). The three tracks must be continuously integrated for a balanced process that tackles multiple problems simultaneously.

“Vision without actions and projects does not yield operational synergy, tangible results and necessary feedback. Action without vision does not address strategic long-term conditions to ensure that the essential resources for a good quality urban life are available for future generations. Vision and action without communication is doomed to fail as it does not take into consideration the aspirations of civil society as a whole and the construction of a social agreement.” (Loeckx et al., 2004, p. 22).

Phasing is another useful tool to consider in UA because it requires low initial start-up costs and the ability to future-proof an intervention. Casanova and Hernandez coined the term “Public Space Acupuncture,” a key stakeholder of public space is the citizen, their strategy aims to evaluate citizen participation with a phased, time-based approach (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). Their research is heavily based on place-making strategies that are restorative, adaptive, flexible and have the capacity for transformation. The strategy involves a development process and management along a timescale

Figure 2.8 – The Three Track Approach illustrated Source: Loeckx, André. (2004). Urban trialogues: visions, projects, co-productions. UN-HABITAT.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

for phasing with the actors involved in each stage to promote gradual regeneration (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). The diagram (Figure 2.9) demonstrates the strategy applied to an exhibit at Amsterdam Nieuw-West, the phases start small and expand over time with support from private and public stakeholders that include municipalities, housing corporations, volunteers, architects and urbanists (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). Citizen participation is perhaps the most important to show stakeholders it is a worthy investment, with programs being created to increase community involvement that ultimately serve to revitalize the area.

There is a unique value in timebased strategies in that they can respond in a variety of ways depending on need. They can also be rapidly integrated to test a hypothesis and grow an idea (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014).

The “Three Track Approach” and Casanova & Hernandez’s approach for public space phasing, is valuable to consider in combination with UA theory because it addresses similar elements with a strategic approach for city planning among various stakeholders which may include government policymakers, designers, developers, businesses, and Figure 2.9 – Strategy Phases Relating Actors Involved, Type and Location of Interventions and Citizen Participation Source: Casanova, H., Hernández Jesús, Devesa, R., & Bunning, A. K. (2014). Public space acupuncture: strategies and interventions for activating city life.

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community members (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014).

3

CHAPTER 3

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE; A CATALYST FOR URBAN REGENERATION The core principles of sustainability are explained to further contextualize urban acupuncture as a theory and their relationship to sustainable urbanization. It is proposed that for urban acupuncture to be an effective catalyst for regeneration it must include social, economic, and environmental factors to the design practice.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

3.1 THE TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE; KEY CATALYSTS FOR SUSTAINABLE REGENERATION. The strategy of UA is linked to trends in sustainable urbanization, and its principles aim to reconstruct a city’s energy by pinpointing environmental, social and economic issues with a positive yet simple response to preserve natural resources and improve the community’s QOL (Al-Hinkawi & Al-Saadi, 2020). Cities are comprised of a multitude of energetic forces ranging from mechanical to emotional, architectural to human, and together these forces create an urban identity. It is the physical matter that constitutes the urban experience, the city has an innate power to influence human behavior and effect the habits of urban residents to promote the regeneration of multiple factors (Solà-Morales et al., 2008).

“The triple bottom line” is a term which describes the three pillars of sustainability (social, environmental, and economic factors), also referred to as “people, planet and profit” or “ecology, equity and economy” (Bergman, 2012). There is a misconception that urban development and regeneration are costly, and that profit is the sole added value to a city. The triple bottom line also addresses ecology and equity, which is difficult to put a number on (Bergman, 2012). The benefit of UA as a theory for urban regeneration is that it can require little financial cost, therefor social and environmental viability can remain at the forefront of the design. Nassar suggests that from an architectural point of view, “any successful building must stimulate economic and social activities and be within walking distance of other activities”. It becomes evident that the three factors together create the highest value by thoroughly connecting places to people (Nassar, 2021, p. 4). The city is a living organism containing a variety of focal points with high potential, and these places can act as catalysts for widespread regeneration. Ultimately, the most effective catalyst for UA must be related to the factors of the triple bottom line (Unt & Bell, 2014; Nassar, 2021).

Urban acupuncturists must be culturally literate to acknowledge “the webs of significance people have spun” (Landry, 2005) to decode a place on the physical and non-physical level. This can be done by evaluating relationships and determining how an intervention might improve a community, stimulate the economy, and benefit ecology (Landry, 2005; Casagrande, 2013). Intervention points should be selected through a comprehensive analysis of the triple bottom line factors in combination with dialogue between designers and communities. Due to this imperative, we must understand how each of these pillars contributes to and participates in sustainable regeneration (Al-Hinkawi & Al-Saadi, 2020).

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CHAPTER 3: URBAN ACUPUNCTURE; A CATALYST FOR URBAN REGENERATION

“… see the connections between the natural, social, cultural, political and economic environments, and to grasp the importance not only of ‘hard’ but also of ‘soft’ infrastructures, which are the social network dynamics of a place.” (Landry, 2005, p. 118) As designers it is essential to embrace each of these pillars for lasting sustainable regeneration.

3.1.1 SOCIAL

UA transforms a city into a catalyst for regeneration not only by mending the physical form but, by cultivating community interactions (Yimeng, 2015). At the city’s core, people are the life source, and it is important to frequently engage people to create impactful change without fear of disrupting social and cultural norms (Nassar, 2021). Casagrande views cities as “complex energy organisms,” with overlapping layers of energy flows determining the development of the city as well as the actions of the citizens (Casagrande, 2013). Social factors concern citizens and their well-being, with this best be understood by surveying the people themselves. It is widely believed that public space contributes to QOL, urban identity, and economic development, fostering the social epicenter of the city that possesses it (Nassar, 2021). It is important to strengthen the social function of urban spaces and to foster a democratic society by way of incorporating meeting places (Gehl, 2010). Casanova and Hernandez coined the term ‘public space acupuncture’ to describe strategies that activate city life especially when it concerns equitable public space (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). “The ethos of the ‘public’ in urban space also gives affordance of something often limited in indoor spaces, diversity of activity” (Rishbeth et al., 2017, p. 48). Public space acupuncture gives the citizen a role in shaping urbanity, whether that be intentionally or inadvertently, for people create the spark (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014; Lerner, 2014). Sir Patrick Geddes is a prime example of igniting such a spark when he relocated to Edinburgh. He began to restore his own property, which subsequently persuaded his neighbors to take communal actions that could benefit them all (MacPherson, 2020).

Citizens are builders of the city, and in recent years local authorities have formed co-production initiatives that include realized and maintained spaces by citizens and citizen groups. These places include community gardens, art and urban farms occupying deteriorating public spaces, abandoned lots, or poorly maintained urban intersections (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). Citizens are motivated to act for a multitude of reasons due to the simple aesthetic and spirit of improving their local community or they may encourage economic drivers for food production and sale from urban gardens (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). Whatever public motivations there may appear to be, there will

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always be multiple stakeholders prioritizing different merit, and a combination of local authority and public participation can balance these factors. There is great value in reclaiming the ownership of public space, and the importance of community development through small interventions should emphasize the regenerative effects that come from empowering social, economic and environmental change (Nassar, 2021). With creative innovation and communal redevelopment prompted by community-lead conservation, cities can be revitalized, and citizens can be empowered.

UA should prioritize equity with equal access and involve everyone from policymakers to populations that range from the youth to the elderly. Jaime Lerner believes in the profoundness of social strategies that concern people’s participation. He used a strategy that involved youth education by publishing a book for children that helped them understand how to improve urban environments through drawing.

The idea was that the children become the teacher as they show their parents their work (Yimeng, 2015). Engagement with the public influences a designer’s intentional cultural competency to promote ethnic diversity in public space by critically understanding social patterns (Rishbeth et al., 2017).

Public engagement such as this will inform better design decisions for future-proofing our cities with a people-centric approach.

Providing a multitude of social activities is positive for a citizen’s well-being as well as boosting economic traffic. Multi-use spaces encourage social exchanges that have great value in the regeneration of urbanity (Gehl, 2010; Nassar, 2021). As humans, we are attracted to animation, and people attract people. Lerner is quoted as saying “I stop to watch how a drop of molasses draws a swarm of ants”. An acupuncture point is the sweet spot in the city and once people begin to gather, the spark will continue to spread (Lerner, 2014, p. 47). UA in combination with citizen participation can reconnect cities by creating a social network in the physical world, and good acupuncture is about filling the streets (Lerner, 2014).

3.1.2 ECONOMIC

A stable economy, with concomitant financial investment, is crucial when talking about balancing and revitalizing urban life. This is because UA depends on initial funding, ongoing support and longerterm maintenance. The benefit of this strategy is that UA focusses on a local and social approach to resources, rather than capital-intensive municipal programs (Solà-Morales et al., 2008; Casagrande, 2013). Manuel de Solà-Morales invented UA at a time when budgets and resources were limited,

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so he was able to demonstrate that social efforts can democratically and inexpensively increase the QOL in the city by way of small-scale corrective responses that realize urban potential (Al-Hinkawi & Al-Saadi, 2020). When strong economies provide ready access to capital structures, regenerative efforts often include demolishing the decrepit urban structure(s) and replacing them with something new. In the case where a city or community does not have access to such capital, or is paralyzed by an economic crisis, UA is best suited as a response (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). The economic approach is bottom-up, with minimal investment providing great opportunity for flexibility and expansion in the future (Casagrande, 2013).

City centers are having to face with the reality that the public is disappearing from the streets, which is proving to be detrimental to the economy (Yimeng, 2015). Well integrated interventions have the potential to release energy in degraded areas of a city by way of cultural policies that can lead to economic renewal. Subsequently, this can not only improve the vision of the city, but also its appeal (Al-Hinkawi & Al-Saadi, 2020). When the aesthetic of a city is elevated, more people will be attracted to it. The economic value of UA is intertwined with the social wellbeing of residents, with them often-times depending on each other to foster a flourishing community. Earlier, we recognized that walkability is closely correlated to a good QOL for urban dwellers. Pedestrian cities (usually historic cities that were designed before the automobile) have an economy and social network that is based on foot traffic (Gehl, 2010). Like Lerner suggests, UA should aim to fill the streets with people, for this will stimulate the economy and it can also engage the public with the intervention for the possibility of future involvement (Lerner, 2014).

Complementary to stimulating the economy is maintaining equal access to interventions. Public engagement is important to foster community relationships and there is a fine line between interventions being accessible to the masses vs feeling exclusive. Geddes sparked citizens of Edinburgh to make strides to conserve the city, with some of his projects aimed towards encouraging the wealthy to return to Old Town by making it a more desirable place. While bringing wealth back to the city improves the lives of everyone, there is risk in that the city can also become unaffordable (MacPherson, 2020). The desirable conveniences of a city should be mutually attainable and UA interventions should encourage coexistence. Low-cost interventions combined with local skills and resources will promote a sense of equity among citizens with diverse economic backgrounds.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

3.1.3 ENVIRONMENTAL

Because human beings and nature are interdependent, people have an inherent relationship to the environment, and Sir Patrick Geddes believed that by changing a society’s surroundings, it is possible to change their structure and behavior (Hysler-Rubin, 2011). Similarly, Nassar suggests that changing social and cultural norms by way of frequent public engagement will create an awareness that betters urban environments (Nassar, 2021). UA is a strong catalyst for shaping urbanity and influencing sustainable change. Casagrande describes humans as the chi (general life sources) of a city, and that by educating and encouraging the public, a spark of change will ignite and work to reshape said city (Casagrande, 2013; Lerner, 2014). People have an innate attraction to nature, thus a city should be directed back towards its organic roots to help improve QOL. If acupuncture relieves stress in the body, then UA relieves stressors of industrial tension in the city (Casagrande, 2013). UA has always condoned this human-nature relationship, and Solà-Morales based the theory on a metaphor of the city as a layered skin and as having energy networks (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). The city and man are alike, “The analogy between cities and living organisms reflects the fact that cities can be born, be transformed, and even die” (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014, p. 46). Humans are a part of nature but, it is the byproduct of man that is unnatural. Man has the tendency to push away nature, although it wants to exist maximally, nature should be encouraged as a part of the urban environment for revitalization (Casagrande, 2019). Our initiatives to create better environments contradict the cycle of nature. Everything in life is in a constant state of flux but, the urban structures we design stand still for centuries (Imhof & Gruber, 2016). Like nature, UA has the potential to be organically flexible and adaptive (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014).

There is a unique quality in comparing the city, that which is manmade, to living organ isms, naturally existing and ever evolving. The concept of a city is biomimetic, described as having skin, like animals, containing multiple layers and networks (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). UA is a tool with the aptitude to join urban nature as part of nature (Casagrande, 2013). If humans are the life source of a city, then our urban spaces should be people centric, without compromise to the environment, of which is a life source to mankind.

Perhaps, the most notable example for design driven by coexistence is Marco Casagrande’s work with the Treasure Hill community in Taipei, Taiwan known as “Third Generation City” (Casagrande,

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CHAPTER 3: URBAN ACUPUNCTURE; A CATALYST FOR URBAN REGENERATION

2019). His work explores the lifespan of cities, and focuses on how humans evolve with said city as being notable Casagrande believes that “Urban Acupuncture is a form of bio-urban healing and a development process connecting modern man with nature” (Casagrande, 2019, p.138). His UA methods manipulate the timelines of urban Chi to create sustainable urban development (Al-Hinkawi & Al-Saadi, 2020). In the first-generation, humans respect constraints and still depend on nature, with the city being considered moderately urbanized (Yimeng, 2015; Unt, & Bell, 2014). Humans begin to exploit natural resources in the second-generation as cities become overly industrialized. At this point citizens feel independent from nature (Casagrande, 2019; Unt, & Bell, 2014). The third-generation city is when the mechanical surface of the industrial city (second-generation) is shattered, and from the cracks an organic city returns. Nature takes over and a new sensitive urban layer is exposed (Casagrande, 2019; Unt, & Bell, 2014). Whilst the theory is experimental, with informal and minimal intervention, this new urban layer is socially and biologically diverse (Unt, & Bell, 2014). Casagrande applies this theory to the regeneration of Treasure Hill, a community consisting of elder KMT veterans, illegal foreign workers and artists Figure 3.2 – Treasure Hill 2 Source: Casagrande, Marco. “Treasure Hill.” Casagrande Laboratory.

April 07, 2016. https://www.casagrandelaboratory. com/portfolio/treasure-hill.

within a village nearly demolished by the government but saved by UA intervention, lead by the principles of the thirdgeneration city (Casagrande, 2006). Treasure Hill was a dead end until Casagrande, in collaboration with the community and local government, constructed stairways and passages throughout the village to inject new energy and circulation (Figure 3.1 / 3.2) (Casagrande, 2006). The simple act of reconnecting a community and reintroducing garden plots

Figure 3.1 – Treasure Hill 1 Source: Casagrande, Marco. “Treasure Hill.” Casagrande Laboratory. April 07, 2016. https://www.casagrandelaboratory.com/portfolio/ treasure-hill.

to a historic farming village resulted in the conservation of a previously dilapidated village. Casagrande refers to

this process as turning over compost and feels that by penetrating the topsoil with UA intervention as a tool, a “smelly” corner of the city is turned into the most fertile topsoil for future development (Casagrande, 2019). (Casagrande, 2019). Like a compost pile, the intervention requires tending to retain nourishment. UA is a therapeutic modality that may require multiple treatments until healing begins. This healing is referred to as a ruin, the third-generation city aims to design ruins. It is at this point industrial control is released and man becomes a part of nature (Casagrande, 2006).

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

3.2

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE IN COMPARISON.

Streets, squares and parks are a city’s public domain, they are key areas for catalysts such as UA (Gehl, 2010). Within this structure, UA aims to impact every potential space in a city, eventually creating and interconnecting a strong urban network (Nassar, 2021). Nassar evaluates various types of urban renewal relative to their socioeconomic strategies, ultimately quantifying the effectiveness of UA (Figure, 3.1). UA strays from the typical large urban renewal strategies used in the past, instead utilizing localized, small-scale intervention methods directly influenced by the local inhabitants (Nassar, 2021). Nassar presents this table (Figure 3.1) to compare large-scale and small-scale urban renewal to UA. This thorough analysis proves that UA is a strategic, holistic, and inclusive approach to designing public space.

VARIOUS TYPES OF URBAN RENEWAL COMPARISON ITEMS

LARGE-SCALE URBAN RENEWAL

SMALL-SCALE URBAN RENEWAL

Aim of Development

Achieve mostly financial profit

Improve the environment and living conditions

Solve different urban problems (social, environmental, etc.)

Director of Development

Government and developers

Government and residents

Government, developers, and local community

Development Method

Mostly to demolish and reconstruct all at one time

Achieve goal in stages progressively

The accumulative effect, step by step

Funding

One-time investment from government or developers

From government and residents’ funds

Various/unlimited channels

Strategy: Planning & design

From top to bottom

From top to bottom

From bottom to top

Strategy: Construction

From top to bottom

From top to bottom

From bottom to top

Flexible

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE

The difficulty of Strategy Application

Simple

Flexible

Level of Urban Development

One-time improvement

Step-by-step improvement

Preserving Local style and Historical Context

The small level of preservation with a large level of demolition

A small level of preservation with a small level of demolition

A balanced level of preservation

Economic Land Use Benefit

High

Low

High

Sustainability & Ongoing Development

Low

Moderate

High

Step-by-step improvement

Figure 3.3 – Comparison between UA, Large and Small-Scale Urban Renewal. Source: Adapted from ‘Urban Acupuncture in Large Cities: Filtering Framework to Select Sensitive Urban Spots in Riyadh for Effective Urban Renewal’ by Nassar, 2017, Journal of Contemporary Urban Affairs, p. 3.

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4

CHAPTER 4

METHODOLOGY The methodology for exploring the hypothesis includes a combination of desk-based and qualitative field research to further explore the hypothesis and inform the later proposed framework for urban acupuncture as a design practice. This chapter will explain the procedure and relative tools used in the research method of this dissertation.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

METHODOLOGY OVERVIEW

DISSERTATION RESEARCH QUESTION

What is urban acupuncture and how can it create sustainable strategies to regenerate cities?

PHASE 1 RESEARCH

LITERATURE REVIEW Review of existing literature to gain a thorough understanding of the topic

PHASE 2 RESEARCH

CONTEXT

CONCLUSIONS

THEORY

What is missing / needs further study?

Tools & methods for selecting a “sensitive spot” for intervention and contextualizing the place

METHODS

SITE SELECTION

PURPOSE OF DATA COLLECTION

FIELDWORK

Explore the questions, How is this space used and by who? What behaviors occur and why?

How can an intervention benefit this place?

Can observational study add value to urban acupuncture practices?

Observational research inspired by autoethnographic methods to contextualize place

BACKGROUND RESEARCH FIELDWORK RESEARCH PORTFOLIO ANALYSIS

Unanswered questions should be resolved with further research

FINDINGS

FRAMEWORK Conceptual & Theoretical Work How did research inform the framework? Guide for Urban Acupuncture as a design practice.

DESIGN PROPOSAL Verification of theory.

How would this framework be applied in an Urban Acupuncture design proposal for Edinburgh

CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

Figure 4.1 – Research Methodology Overview. Source: Madison Sacramone - Referenced: ‘Social Research Methods’ by Bryman, 2012, p. 384 (Main steps of qualitative research).

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CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

4.1

METHODOLOGY OVERVIEW

The methodology for understanding and determining regenerative abilities to inform a framework of UA includes multiple aspects. The principal method includes secondary desk-based research via literature review on the history, context and theory of UA. Within this research, a common theme emerged, with the first step of an intervention being the acceptance of the truth a place possesses (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). To fully recognize reality, a first-person experience is most valuable when grasping the concepts of everyday life and interpreting socio-spatial dialects (Cihanger, 2018). Until now, desk-based study has been the sole research method. In support of this, the author will collect qualitative information through a primary research methodology in tandem with literature and case study review (Figure 1.1). Together conclusions will be met on the potential UA has to regenerate cities and this will inform the UA framework. The qualitative research method in focus is more specifically “autoethnography,” which critically explores a researcher’s immersive analysis of “self” and “others,” in order to highlight socio-spatial qualities and its additional value for directing urban design practices (Chang, 2008; Nassar, 2021; Cihanger, 2018). Ethnography is a form of discovery science concerning the observation of the everyday lives of people, and when paired with spatial analysis, researchers comprehend the relationships between people and the built environment and how/why specific interactions occur (Cihanger, 2018). By preforming an autoethnographic analysis of my local city (Edinburgh ,UK) I will analyze the findings through various tools such as notetaking, drawing, audio and video recording to make suggestions on using this method in combination with UA theory. A guided framework for future urban designers, planners, community members and policymakers will be derived from the findings and conclusions drawn from both secondary and primary research methods. This framework will be verified in an UA design proposal for the city of Edinburgh.

4.2

SECONDARY RESEARCH; DESK STUDY.

The review of existing literature represents an important element when conducting research, for it helps the researcher and reader gain a thorough understanding of the topic. Said understanding is critical when assessing the significance of previous work(s) and affirming the credibility of the hypothesis (Bryman, 2012). In this case, a narrative review approach was used to study the literature and was guided by the research questions (see 1.2 Aims and Objectives) to determine the following conclusions (Figure 4.2);

36

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

Figure 4.2 – Table summarizing the conclusions drawn from the literature review. Source: Madison Sacramone

Following the assessment of the significance in previous authors work, key findings derived from the literature review were analyzed for how they fit into the narrative of UA. It became evident that UA as a theory has powerful regenerative qualities, but further study is required to advise a suitable strategic method for utilizing it in existing cities. Researchers such as Nassar have developed guidance on principles and strategies (Figure 2.6) for UA, but advanced counsel is necessary to thoroughly illustrate a design process that has potential to be widely adopted within the field of urbanism (Nassar, 2021). It is important to further explore effective procedures for assessing relative conditions to locate sensitive points in the city and identify why they occur (Landry, 2005). UA views urban voids in small parts and examines their opportunity for revitalizing the whole city (Casagrande, 2013).

To refrain from theoretical proposals, the relationship and mutual understanding of community and designer is important for success. Designing intervention points require maximal information to best concoct a regenerative catalyst. Interventions which empower urban relationships and focus on the social and environmental factors first will later influence sustainable growth and economic regeneration. As a designer and researcher, I will participate in observational fieldwork using principles of autoethnography to thoroughly comprehend these factors that make up urbanity. A purely desk-based research approach would not be a feasible demonstration of UA because an urban planner

37

CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

cannot possibly attain all the answers without experiencing it themselves. UA interventions should be informed by citizens, therefore it is essential to recognize how the built environment is perceived by its society (Nassar, 2021). I will observe space as a society member to holistically experience the essence of place.

4.3

PRIMARY RESEARCH; FIELDWORK.

Whilst reading the literature on a topic or reflecting on generalized studies of modern life, questions occur as gaps or inconsistencies in the literature materialize, with resolution achieved by way of primary research (Bryman, 2012). UA is an underrepresented method when targeting regeneration and therefore further research is required on the best methods for successful interventions.

Autoethnography has inspired this portion of qualitative research via fieldwork for its ability to depict a citizen’s everyday life.

This method relates to urban design practice within multi-cultural dimensions because it depicts the story of place. Telling stories is a practice perhaps as old as mankind. At its core, autoethnography tells a mundane narrative of everyday life based on people’s observed behaviors. Solà-Morales describes cities as narratives that are defined by their themes and this determines how urban spaces are used and observed (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). Cities can be read like books, they have a language formed by their grammatical elements such as streets, footpaths, squares, and parks (Gehl, 2010). A descriptive understanding of how people interact with such elements help planners design to support behaviors rather than enforce them. There is an important distinction between ideal and manifest behaviors; ideal behaviors describe what a good member of society should do whilst manifest behavior are what people actually do (Blomberg, 1993). By observing manifest behavior, designers are allowing the community to write their own story, a guiding method which parallels the human-centric nature of UA. This dissertation will utilize observational fieldwork inspired by the principal methods of autoethnography yet will exclude techniques such as interviewing and interactive participation. This is due to ethical restrictions and limitations in part by the university and the current covid-19 pandemic.

The fieldwork observes and analyzes a selected site located in Edinburgh, UK (reference 4.3.2 Planning the autoethnographic analysis), including the physical conditions and participants. Some recommended considerations for this type of fieldwork are shown in Figure 4.3, valuable categories

38

SOCIAL & PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS

SPATIAL ASPECTS

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

Figure 4.3 – Categories to consider in fieldwork. Source: Madison Sacramone

39

CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

to analyze during and after the site study. The research will remain within the ethical boundaries of non-intrusive participant observation; thus a later study may more deeply divulge the everyday lives of society for future findings. Although it will not be feasible to conduct a traditional autoethnographic analysis for reasons previously mentioned and the constraint of time, it is valuable to understand the approach and it’s added value to design practitioners.

4.3.1 WHAT IS AUTOETHNOGRAPHY AND HOW DOES IT RELATE TO DESIGN PRACTICE? Autoethnography is a qualitative design method derived from the field of anthropology. It has a similar sense of storytelling but exceeds self-narration to engage in cultural analysis and interpretation (Bryman, 2012; Chang, 2008). The term suggests that autoethnography examines self; auto, culture; ethno and research; graphy. The method explores cultural, social, and political contexts through a firstperson lens (Dwyer, et al., 2017). A descriptive analysis of observed behaviors is performed by the researcher to understand a social world beyond themselves (Blomberg, 1993; Anderson, 2006). The analysis will require the ethnographer to be immersed in the environment and people being studied through fieldwork that can include a combination of informal interviewing, participation in community activities or observation. This experience will be followed by a detailed report of impressions and key repetitions (Blomberg, 1993; Cihanger, 2018). It has many opportunities to create a holistic design approach but, socio-spatial analysis comes with its challenges (Figure 4.4). The examination and interpretation of the world by its participants has great value in designing future-forward cities because like culture is made of an invisible web of human behaviors, patterns and rules, the city is similarly a multi-layered energy organism (Bryman, 2012; Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016; Casagrande, 2013).

“Self” and “others” are two vital agents and participants in culture, utilizing these interactive agents as informants for regenerative urbanization will influence more holistic and people-centric urban spaces (Chang, 2008). Techniques derived from autoethnographic research will help dissect the multiple layers of culture and place.

Social and physical space shape the quality of public living conditions, therefore designers and planners should conduct intensive studies of the socio-spatial dynamics in cities. Design ethnography is an understudied method in terms of regenerative urban design (Cihanger, 2018). Large-scale regenerative plans have exclusionary tendencies, thus creating marginalized designs, where autoethnography allows for thorough evaluation of micro-scale formations between individuals,

40

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

cultures and their environment (Rishbeth et al., 2017; Cihanger, 2018). Autoethnography presents a unique opportunity for the designer to gain valuable empathy for local ecology.

Autoethnography as a design research method provides access to people’s everyday lives, and because of this it has become a useful tool for researchers and practitioners related to people and multicultural settings (Blomberg, 1993; Chang, 2008). This was selected as a research method due to its close relation to how practitioners of the built environment typically direct design decisions with fundamental knowledge of a site’s demographics and physical form (Chun & Twose, 2019). It OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES OF AUTOETHNOGRAPHY AS A DESIGN METHODOLOGY OPPORTUNITIES

CHALLENGES

The autoethnographer has a unique opportunity to coexistence in a place. Planners and designers have a responsibility for “managing our co-existence in shared space” (Rishbeth et al., 2017, p. 37).

Social research can be messy but effective planning can combat (Bryman, 2012).

The nature of this research is difficult to replicate (Bryman, 2012).

By evaluating people (the interactive agents of culture), researchers can identify social patterns (Chang, 2008).

There is a lack of clarity for what the researcher actually did (Bryman, 2012).

Storytelling is an ancient human practice and is therefore reader friendly (Chang, 2008).

There is a concern for ethical privacy in some settings (Change, 2008).

Easy access to primary data (Chang, 2008).

The autoethnographer plays a dual role as a member in the environment under study and as a researcher of that place (Anderson, 2006).

Clarify inconsistencies in literature review (Bryman, 2012).

Informative tool to design in support of community activity (Blomberg, 1993).

The method can lose its sociological promise if the autoethnographer indulges in self-absorption (Anderson, 2006).

Social analysis of public life is too often generalized and simplified, autoethnography realizes the complexity and fluidity of local ecology (Rishbeth et al., 2017, p. 37).

Subject to the researcher’s perspective and personal view (Bryman, 2012). ie; I am come from America, I am a young adult and I have an educational background in sustainability and architectural design, this will give me a different lens for viewing an experience compared to someone such as a child. Lerner used children in a study that implied how they see places more purely (Yimeng, 2015).

Figure 4.4 – Opportunities & Challenges of autoethnography as a design methodology for urban acupuncture. Source: Madison Sacramone.

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CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

is common practice for designers and planners to consider the whole set of existing conditions by studying the place as it is and discovering how it has become what it is by evaluating its positive and negative components (Hysler-Rubin, 2011). This is similar to the bottom-up approach in UA which aims to relieve small urban spaces to revitalize the wider area (Casagrande, 2013). The principal concept of holism refers to how particular daily behaviors fit into the larger whole (Blomberg, 1993).

The ethnographic mindset for evaluating particles of a place eliminates a designer’s conceptual blinders (Rishbeth et al., 2017). This is important because designs that are realized prior to a holistic knowledge for place lack information as a driver for sustainable, long-term intervention. “…urbanism studies do not need to invent or pre-mediate uses and corresponding urban spaces for people. Instead, everyday life and its spaces are needed to be better observed, understood and valued by the professionals. Being almost unique to each case, the everyday users contribute to the objectives and principles of urban design from a more genuine perspective, with their humble richness for alternative and authentic design ideas.” (Cihanger, 2018, p. 3) Engaging with ethnographic research can better inform cultural literacy in design policy and professional practice (Rishbeth et al., 2017). Evidently, the active involvement by all participants of urban development helps to design more inclusive public space by understanding socio-spatial patterns. Each place is different and should not be molded to fit one form, it should be thoroughly analyzed through its everyday users prior to creating design concepts.

4.3.2 PRELIMINARY PLANNING OF FIELDWORK.

Preparing for observational analysis requires a strategic plan for fieldwork that will adequately develop an understanding for a place and human behavior. This section will make recommendations and outline the preparation of the observational study. Autoethnography is a method that is available to anyone, for it is simply allowing oneself to experience what is before them. If design is defined as the organization of any space transformed into a preferred one, then every individual is a capable decision maker when erecting an ideal environment. It is with this in mind that anyone can play the role of a design researcher to transform urban space (Cihanger, 2018). UA theory suggests that actions of citizens lead the development of cities (Casagrande, 2013). In this study, I will demonstrate how observational research in my local city is an attainable method by a citizen (myself) and is appropriate for analyzing potential spaces for intervention in conjunction with UA theory.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

Site Selection – UA addresses potential opportunities in a city to advance regeneration and improve the QOL for everyday urbanites. In this case, methods for selecting a “sensitive” spot were applied in identifying a study site. Solà-Morales believed that successful interventions should be attentive to the richness of urban sites for existing richness and more importantly, potential richness (SolàMorales et al., 2008). Referencing analytical strategies and rating methods for successful urban spaces (see 2.5 Existing strategies for reassessing urban spaces in preparation of regeneration) helps to clarify the distinction of unappealing versus desirable assets in urban conditions. To name a few, walkability, safety, and socialization promote good QOL (Nassar, 2021; Gehl, 2010). By realizing the positive aspects, opportunities in sensitive points can be realized where these are lacking (Figure 2.5). It is not enough to assume, for example, a place is “safe,” for an individual’s perception based on place is equally valuable and subject to their personal views and experiences (Figure 2.3) (Ewing & Handy, 2009). Therefore, observational study will allow me to fully experience the sites from my personal, read subjective, perspective. It goes without saying that if you were to conduct this study you may / would have a completely different perception, experience, etc., and ultimately draw different and unique conclusions. The study site was selected from key criteria for predicting a successful place for intervention based on initial impressions. The process is partially lead by intuition and by our knowledge of existing principles and strategies for UA (Figure 2.6). Using a guide for site selection, any citizen has the capability to assess a sensitive spot for its feasibility and opportunity for intervention. Due to limitations inherent to the dissertation I will perform this task myself, but, this guide can be used to identify sensitive points in your city. Like the Place Standard Tool (Figure 2.4), it can be used by professionals and the public to reach collaborative conclusions on reality of a place and need for UA intervention (Figures 4.5 & 4.6).

Nassar suggests that it is best to select intervention locations that are “small, leftover, neglected spaces in the urban fabric” because well-designed and large spaces such as parks already have a definitive purpose in the city (Nassar, 2021, p. 4). Sir Patrick Geddes similarly approached his areas of work in Edinburgh by recognizing potential where nobody else did, he began restoration and subsequently people began to move back to Old Town (MacPherson, 2020). In projects such as Casagrande’s “Third Generation City,” interventions are constructed in places where the land is underused, the status is unclear, or ownership is undefined (Casagrande, 2006; Unt & Bell, 2014).

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CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

As a current resident of Edinburgh, I

PROCESS: SITE SELECTION The site selection process is outlines as it relates to choosing an appropriate site for urban acupuncture intervention. Once the site passes step 3, the researcher can proceed with the fieldwork study portion.

have realized a similar circumstance in northern Edinburgh, Leith, where urban voids have formed for various reasons.

SITE SELECTION is based on educated impressions and observations.

Designs from Geddes and other historic

1

EXPLORE THE CITY

urbanists make Old Town Edinburgh

2

INTUITIVELY IDENTIFY A SENSITIVE SPOT

the vibrant and celebrated district it is today. Likewise, Leith can benefit

* see guide for site selection

3

from regeneration, like Old Town did

CAN THIS PLACE HOST A SUCCESSFUL INTERVENTION? Yes | No

after Geddes prompted intervention following the construction of New

FIELDWORK STUDY is the main observational study, begin to question why specific behaviors occur.

4

Town (MacPherson, 2020). Leith is a

THOROUGH OBSERVATIONAL FIELDWORK OF SELECTED SITE

part of Edinburgh that feels relatively disconnected and would benefit

* see Appendix 1 for guide on fieldwork

from intervention as is evident from Figure 4.5 – Process Outline for Site Selection. Source: Madison Sacramone

community-lead UA that I observed

while scoping for study sites (Figures 4.7 & 4.8). This suggests that the community seeks intervention, hints such as this assure that an intervention would be successful. “Planners and designers have a responsibility for managing our co-existence in shared space,” autoethnography helps us to experience coexistence, between ourselves, the environment and people (Rishbeth et al., 2017, p. 37). As the observational researcher selecting specific study sites, it is important to focus on these relationships for how they make or break a successful UA intervention and clues in the community may suggest a craving for interventions such as this.

Background Research – During the initial phases of this dissertation, I began to see Edinburgh differently. Whilst reviewing literature on urbanism. In time my senses were heightened to the point that I began noticing local urban voids. Before selecting the site, I considered a site located on the Royal Mile in central Old Town, Edinburgh. I observed that although Hunter Square encompassed many of the UA principles and strategies, it still attracted antisocial behavior. I was intrigued to study why such behaviors occur in a theoretically desirable place, but temporary outdoor cafes (an economic response to covid-19 restrictions) filled the square and like the flip of a switch Hunter

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

Figure 4.7 – Community-lead Garden example of UA in Leith, Edinburgh Source; Image by Madison Sacramone

Figure 4.8 – Example of reused and local material, UA in Leith, Edinburgh Source; Image by Madison Sacramone

Square was gentrified. Though this was unfortunate for my planned research, it was also a beneficial experience because I began to understand my own innate ability to question urban voids. As an urban acupuncturist it is important to practice diagnostic skills in your local city.

Diagnosis is not purely lead by intuition, it can be supplemented by gathering quantitative background information. My initial impression of Hunter Square led me to questions that I otherwise would not have if I had purely studied the site from desk-based analytical data. Visiting potential sites for intervention can inform the initial background research that must be conducted prior to proceeding with the observational autoethnographic fieldwork (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016). A combination of intuitive fieldwork and preliminary desk-based site analysis will widen the scope of information during the qualitative fieldwork stage and inform more educated questions that may arise. Placing the needle in site selection was only the first step, Geddes suggests that we must acknowledge where we are in the timeline of a place and this information is best gathered via a traditional approach prior to fieldwork (Hysler-Rubin, 2011). I developed a brief site analysis for the site in study to adequately inform myself on the relative context of the area (Appendix 2). Some starting points to background research include climate, demographics and local industry, this information will help both in the fieldwork and in generating a design proposal. UA interventions aim to scale down input, therefore fully understanding the sensitive point and the potential there may be for utilizing local skill, recycled materials and community ideas, provides a holistic view to wisely select a site and its prescribed intervention (Unt & Bell, 2014). The collection of this data lead me to quicker conclusions that I was able to record in my fieldnotes and later contextualize in my results.

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CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

SELECTION OF SENSITIVE SPOTS FOR URBAN ACUPUNCTURE INTERVENTION This guide should be used as a checklist to determine the feasibility of a location for urban acupuncture intervention. A fieldworker may intuitively select an urban void and then evaluate it against the “Necessary” and “Opportunity” categories to realize the potential of an area.

NECESSARY FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERVENTION This principles on this checklist are required for a successful intervention point site.

SMALL SCALE

URBAN VOID

Either the physical area is relatively small to the human scale or it would require minimal financial input (Nassar, 2021).

The site is categorized as leftover, neglected, a place of transition, unused or poorly used. The site has little or no design, well-designed spaces do not need intervention and it is better to build on existing (Nassar, 2021; Casagrande, 2013).

WELL CONNECTED

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION

The site is accessible to the public, it is in walking distance to residential areas and local commerce to stimulate community interactions.

The potential to encourage citizen education and participation will ensure long-term success. Are there clues to suggest interest from the community?

(Nassar, 2021; Casanova & Hernandez, 2014).

* Note: The site which I have selected in Leith, Edinburgh has been used as an example for completing the guided process of these tools.

Recommendation: Although I was not able to, it is recommended to complete this task collaboratively as it is subjective to individuals. I would also recommend including further information on these necessary principles and opportunity areas in your fieldnotes.

* See Figure 4.3 for explanation of categories.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

OPPORTUNITY AREAS These categories describe, as Manuel De Solà-Morales said, the “richness” or “potential richness” of a site.

The items on this checklist are not all required for successful intervention, but should be included in the design proposal. They can be evaluated on a basis of Adequately Exists, Potential for Improvement, or Not Feasible. In the most ideal scenario all categories exist or have potential for improvement.

Local aesthetic Incorporates Heritage

Access to green-space, wildlife and nature.

Accessibility, public access, conveniently accessed via walk, bike or public transportation

Flexible & Adaptive

Open Space

SPATIAL ASPECTS relating to the physical site

5

4

3

2

1

Safety

Walkability

0 0

1

SOCIAL & PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS relating to how people perceive the site and how it fosters interactions

Locality, Use of local resources & skills

2

3

4

5

Sociable, Promotes community engagement.

Diverse & Inclusive

Education, opportunity to educate the public.

Comfort

Adequately exists on site

Potential for improvement

Citizen participation, collaborative management, shared responsibility among community and & local government

Not Feasible

Rate the quality of each category from 0 - 5 (0 = it is not present or is not feasible 3 = small amounts but has potential 5 = adequately exists or it has great potential to exist) Figure 4.6 - Selection of Sensitive Spots, determine the feasibility of a site. Source: Madison Sacramone

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CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY

Fieldwork – Autoethnographic methods for observational research suggest that a first-person insight to cultural practices and phenomena is a valuable research approach to contextualize place but, the reliability of a narrator is always questionable. Participant observations have limited merit without adequate fieldnotes. A site can’t be fully recorded and examined through the lens of technology, after the gathered background research, we must prepare a “toolkit” to document the site for further analysis, the most important tool is fieldnotes (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016). This type of fieldwork is subjective, therefore the ethnographer should immediately record fieldnotes after or during their observation (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016). Ways to combat subjectivity may include a personal systematic way for taking field notes, or a collaborative approach to fieldwork. For studies on observational research for UA of this nature, I would recommend a team of individuals (ideally a combination of community members, designers and policymakers) to undergo this fieldwork activity to collaborate and compare impressions of a site, like the Place Standard Tool (Figure 2.4). Although recommended, this is not feasible to preform for this dissertation but, would be valuable in future studies to open community discussions around UA interventions.

A criticism of autoethnography is that it can be unclear what the researcher actually did (Bryman, 2012). By developing a consistent, systematic process including a toolkit, strategic fieldnotes and a specific procedure performed during the site visit, this can ensure accurate results (Appendix 1).

Observational research can be messy, but this can be a positive quality in analyzing the uncontrolled variables of the study and accepting the potential added value of spontaneity. The researcher must write themselves into the narrative of a place, fieldnotes should be descriptive and balance personal experiences, such as sensations and feelings, with other observed behaviors from people, nature and animals (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016). There is an important distinction between “me,” “us,” and “them,” that can help categorize observations for further analysis on how the researcher fits into the narrative (Chang, 2008). UA forms relationships, in this qualitative method, the researcher has a significant role in these relationships.

Research Portfolio – The research portfolio is a compilation of everything that came out of the research process. Collecting all the work in one place helps the fieldworker to adequately reflect through analysis then synthesis by presenting the work to themselves and fellow researchers (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016). A portfolio is not limited to any amount or type of element, it may include fieldnotes, narratives, photographs, drawings, diagrams, photographs, videos, and artifacts from the 48

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

site visits. The unfiltered collection of these elements can help the researcher to decide what they want to accomplish (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016). Geddes similarly encouraged the exploration and consideration of the “whole set of existing conditions,” and studying a place “as it stands” to recognize its advantages and defects (Hysler-Rubin, 2011). By collecting as much as possible we can holistically visualize the evidence and then filter through synthesis for the most valuable pieces.

A research portfolio is personal to the fieldworker, therefore I will not include every piece of my work in this dissertation, Appendix 2 will display the most relevant elements in my portfolio. It would be too much to present the whole collection here but, synthesizing and the narrowing of these elements is a useful process, especially if it is attainable in a collaborative way (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016).

Analysis – The summative analysis of background research with the documented fieldwork experience and the research portfolio is what alludes to significant findings. The first step was to record all the information, now we must respond with critical analysis (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016). SolàMorales states that UA interventions are “…reinterpretations of the cities and sincere proposals for their transformation… demonstrate an attention to questions beyond the realm of usual professional practice…” (Solà-Morales et al., 2008 p. 19). This method for contextualizing place has added value because questions arise during the process that otherwise would not from a typical desk-based site analysis. By experiencing the place as it stands, I was able to make educated connections and conclusions through observed behaviors, especially those that were repetitive. A fieldwork narrative is something that helped to reflect on the experience and compose the fieldnotes into one essay for a more cohesive narrative to further analyze (See narrative in Appendix 2). The analysis should question the reason for specific occurrences whether they are positive or negative for how they may influence the design of an UA intervention. If questions remain unanswered the researcher should further investigate them. For example, during my site visit I noticed subpar access to healthy, fresh food and a large amount of people eating during lunch breaks, this lead me to question why this is lacking and how it may be resolved by intervention. These questions were not resolved via observation, but the fieldwork provoked these questions for further study and analysis.

49

5

CHAPTER 5

RESULTS The results of the qualitative observational research are summarized as key findings which will inform the development of a framework for urban acupuncture to be more widely adopted in design practices. The framework is the result of data collected from the literature review and fieldwork. This will be applied to a brief design proposal for Edinburgh, UK to verify its merit for further discussions and recommendations.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

5.1

KEY FINDINGS

UA has substantial value as a design process for urban regeneration. The literature review concluded that UA is an effective catalyst for solving issues facing urbanity, whilst the qualitative observational research tested methods for assessing place for its viability as an intervention point with a systematic tool kit and procedure. The purpose of this qualitative research was to discover the best procedure for selection and subsequent evaluation of an urban void. This was tested by observational research inspired by autoethnographic analysis and preformed so that the researcher could experience its added value first-hand and make recommendations on site selection/analysis. The full extent of the data collected during the qualitative research can be viewed in Appendices 1 & 2. This section draws on discoveries of how the qualitative research method informed key findings which relate to contextualizing a place or as Solà-Morales would say, “acknowledging the urban reality” (Yimeng, 2015). The key findings from the qualitative observational study can be broken into 3 major points (Figure 5.1), these points combined with the literature review conclusions (Figure 4.2) have resulted in a framework for UA as a design procedure (Figure 5.2 The Urban Acupuncture Framework).

The key findings from the research method include; #

Findings from

Explanation

Qualitative Research 1

A combination of desk-

It is not possible to fully understand a site through traditional planning

based and fieldwork

processes which are based on desk-based analytics of secondary

research provides a

data or that which has already been collected. The methodology made

holistic knowledge base

recommendations for assessing a sensitive spot/urban void which

for evaluating the

included both secondary data and in-person fieldwork. Both key

potential of an

methods are combined, beginning with sensitive spot selection as

intervention point.

fieldwork, then background research as desk-based, observational fieldwork and finally analysis which may require supplementary data.

While the primary element of the qualitative research was the observational fieldwork portion, secondary data adequately informed the observed behaviors, and the researcher was able to draw more concise conclusions. Conversely, if the researcher had relied only on secondary data, they would not have the full extent of knowledge and would lack the cultural literacy to design a successful UA intervention.

2

Design ethnography is an

Research based on ethnography helps a designer to gain valuable

asset to urban

insights on local ecology. By fully immersing themselves into a place,

regeneration processes.

they can adequately determine what the place needs based on the 51

behaviors which do or don’t occur. As a result, the designs are better informed, therefore create more compelling solutions of higher value to the users. Designs which use ethnographic methods for foundational research prioritize designs for the people and they will have a lasting, widespread impact.

the observed behaviors, and the researcher was able to draw more concise conclusions. Conversely, if the researcher had relied only on CHAPTER 5: RESULTS

secondary data, they would not have the full extent of knowledge and would lack the cultural literacy to design a successful UA intervention.

2

Design ethnography is an

Research based on ethnography helps a designer to gain valuable

asset to urban

insights on local ecology. By fully immersing themselves into a place,

regeneration processes.

they can adequately determine what the place needs based on the behaviors which do or don’t occur. As a result, the designs are better informed, therefore create more compelling solutions of higher value to the users. Designs which use ethnographic methods for foundational research prioritize designs for the people and they will have a lasting, widespread impact.

3

Urban energies can be

The literature review concluded that UA could empower urban

redistributed through

relationships between people and their environment. This can only

careful planning of socio-

occur from a thorough understanding of the place and its users, the

spatial relationships

observational research process uncovered that people use spaces differently based on their proximity, arrangement, and comfort.

Therefore, society is a variable, design interventions are the constant to influence behaviors. This confirms Solà-Morales’ idea that physical matter constitutes the urban experience by influencing human behavior and habits (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). The designer must work with society, people are the informants of a design, and the intervention is the result which supports this.

Figure 5.1 - Three key findings from qualitative research. Source: Madison Sacramone

5.2

THE URBAN ACUPUNCTURE FRAMEWORK

It is evident that UA theory has the capacity to literally pinpoint issues facing cities and with minimal intervention it can create a healing ripple effect that reactivates potential in urban voids. A conclusion drawn from the literature review was that the few existing UA frameworks (and similar methods) do not outline the full extent of the theory as a legitimate design process, they also lack the essence of collaboration between planners and the public. Researchers like Dr. Usama A. Nassar developed principles and strategies which inform a filtering framework (Figure 2.7) for selecting sensitive spots for UA intervention (Nassar, 2021). Despite the absence of guidance on UA as a collaborative process, Nassar’s tools are still valuable to identify voids, they influenced my decision on observational research to experience the elements of a sensitive spot. However, sensitive spot selection is only one step in the process of designing an UA intervention, therefore my research developed it further by engaging with society. The process which I adapted for sensitive spot selection (Figures 4.5 & 4.6) has the potential to actively involve the public and function as a tool that can be understood and preformed

52

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

collaboratively by all stakeholders (designers, planners, decision makers, local governments and community members). Although my research was limited to observation, future studies should include public survey and interviews as assets to identify repetitions in human behaviors and impressions to inform design decisions. Community members often know more than they realize, and they can provide enormous value to all phases of the design from concept and development to building and maintenance but, only if they are empowered to do so. This can be as simple as encouraging active involvement and developing a framework with verbiage which can be comprehended by the community. Active participation such as this is not common practice, it requires additional encouragement for people to feel comfortable voicing their opinions. The collaboration from developers and community members is what makes a public intervention successful, this includes a mutual reliance; the public advises the professionals on the objectives and needs; the professionals elevate their aspirations to make what could have been a simple community-lead project become something with a wider scope for activating a small point in a community and the larger city. “…sometimes, a simple, focused intervention can create new energy, demonstrating the possibilities of a space in a way that motivates others to engage with their community. It can even contribute to the planning process. This gets to the essence of true urban acupuncture it needs to be precise and quick, that’s the secret.” (Lerner, 2014, p. 4) A framework for implementing the theory as a strategic process will make it more attainable in the name of future-proofing urban centers and cities (Figure 5.2). Although this framework remains in the conceptual phase, the objective is that it can spark democratic conversations about the potential for UA intervention in cities, and then advise a procedure for realizing an intervention point to reactivate urban voids. The planning process is flexible to work in differing urban contexts. It embraces the fact that working with society can be messy (Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016) but, in this case people are the most valuable resource and there is an element of discovery within this that goes beyond traditional urban planning practices. This framework is intended for more official forms of UA with the potential to motivate others to spark their own informal intervention in the community. The phases of the framework are guided by professionals but, they are required to work collaboratively by supporting the community.

53

THE URBAN ACUPUNCTURE FRAMEWORK A guided urban design process for collaborative planning of small-scale regenerative interventions.

NE

RA TI

ON

Reflect

GE

RE

OUTCOME WELLNESS CHECK

MICRO MACRO

Select a site

6

Adjust

Scope multiple sites

TH

IS N IO IME NT T VE ER ER OV NT D E I ATE TH LU A EV

1 LOCATE PINPOINT THE SENSITIVE SPOT

E U PO RB IN AN T IS AC SE UP LE UN CT C ED TU . RE

Engage stakeholders to participate

Assess feasibility of the site using opportunity categories

Survey

Document

Observe & Discover

2

Workshops T H E IN TE A C T IV RV E N T IO N AT E COMM S THE U N IT Y

People

Analyze data

CONTEXT EXAMINE THE CONDITIONS

Re-evaluate Potential Listen

Interview

Research Place

Design

5 PILOT DEVELOPMENT TREATMENT

SOLU

?

Quality of Life ?

Build

U

TE CA

TH

E WIDER PUBLI

C,

EN

RA

GE

Improve the Environment ? ?

Localization

Stimulate activity

CL G IN ND TA AL RS TI DE TEN UN O R EP EA TH

Co-create a mission statement

?

?

Set the Purpose

O LV E M E N T

Quick Action Plan

?

INV

VISION PRESCRIBE

NS

OBJECTIVE DIAGNOSE SOLUTIONS

C

4

TIO

3

?

Smallscale

O

ED

Present Data

T GH S LI ME TO C O NS BE ED GI TY CIT BE UNI EX K M & Roles of AR M D SP CO ATE Stakeholders E E C TH TH DU AS E

O PP O D IS A D VA R TU N IT IE S & N TA G ES ID EN TI FI ED

Educate

Plan

OF

STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT DURING EACH PHASE Professionals

Professionals - urban planners, designers, developers, consultants, policy makers, local government

Public

Public - community members, residents, local business owners, local workers, regular users

Professionals & Public

Collaboration - the synergy of ideas between professionals & public

Figure 5.2 - The Urban Acupuncture Framework, Illustrated. Source: Madison 54 Sacramone

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

#

Phase

Key Steps & Tools

Explanation The first phase is to pinpoint the sensitive spot, recommendations for this were made in the

1

Locate

Steps: Engage

methodology. The process of UA begins when it is

stakeholders to

evident that the city or neighborhood needs

participate, scope multiple

regenerative intervention. Professionals will gather

sites, assess feasibility of

all stakeholders to participate in an exploratory site

the site using opportunity

selection process, they will be educated on how to

categories, Select a site.

identify an urban void and if it is feasible based on advised opportunity categories. During this phase

Tools: Workshops,

multiple sites should be examined, each stakeholder

Selection of Sensitive

may explore different sites and therefore have

Spots; Opportunity Areas

different results and impressions of the city. The

Assessment Tool (Figure

professionals will collect and discuss the data with

4.6)

the public and make a final choice on the most appropriate site or network of sites in the city for UA intervention.

The second phase is to examine the existing conditions of the selected site. This is performed with a bottom-up approach, looking at the micro and macro contexts. This is like the background

2

Context

Steps: Contextualize the

research performed within the methodology.

existing of micro and

Examine what is there and what is already

macro, People, Place,

happening. This includes evaluating socio-spatial

Potential, analyze and

occurrences. Three key areas to contextualize

draw conclusions on what

include people (activities they do, what do they

is needed.

need), place (how space shapes behavior, significance of history and environment, public or

Tools: Public Survey,

private?) and potential (can the existing remain? Is

Public Interviews, Design

the community willing to participate? Local

Ethnography, Background

resources and skills). This phase is lead by

Research

professionals yet, informed by the public. The key areas will likely be examined simultaneously, there is no particular order to follow. The context of people, place and potential will form a narrative that will help to assess the opportunities.

55

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS

Steps: Steps:Stimulate Stimulate community communityactivity, activity, Improve Improvethe theenvironment, environment, Educate, Educate,Improve ImproveQuality Quality ofofLife, Life,Small-scale Small-scale(small (small 33

Objective Objective

input inputfor formaximal maximaloutput), output), Local Local(resources, (resources,tools, tools, skill, skill,material, material,equipment) equipment) Tools: Tools:Workshops, Workshops,Public Public

The Thethird thirdphase phasefocusses focusseson onthe theprimary primaryobjectives objectives ofofUA UAas asaamethod methodtotoguide guideconversations conversationson on solutions solutionsfor forthe thesite. site.The Theobjectives objectivesshould shouldbe be informed informedby bythe the“diagnosis” “diagnosis”ofofthe thecontext contextphase. phase.

Collaborative Collaborativesolutions solutionsshould shouldbe befound foundassociated associated with witheach eachstep, step,there thereare aremultiple multiplesolutions solutionstotoeach each objective objectivebut, but,the theprofessionals professionalsand andpublic publicmust must work worktogether togethertotofind findthe thebest bestsuited suitedfor forthe thelocation. location.

Survey, Survey,Analysis Analysis Steps: Steps:Present Presentdata datatoto stakeholders, stakeholders,set setthe the purpose purposefor forthe the intervention, intervention,co-create co-createaa mission missionstatement, statement,form formaa quick quickaction actionplane, plane,assign assign roles rolestotokey keystakeholders stakeholders 44

Vision Vision

(such (suchas ascommunity community leader leaderrecruitment recruitmentand and maintenance maintenanceplanning). planning).

Tools: Tools:Workshops, Workshops, Meetings, Meetings,Advertisement, Advertisement, Recruitment Recruitmentofofcommunity community leaders, leaders,Educate Educate

The Thevision visionforms formsfrom fromthe theobjective objectivesolutions, solutions,it itisisaa prescription prescriptionthat thatoutlines outlinesthe theplanned plannedapproach approachfor for treatment treatmentofofthe theUA UAintervention interventionpoint. point.The Thevision vision should shouldbe beco-created co-createdby byprofessionals professionalsand andthe the public. public.ItItshould shouldbe beclear clearand andstraight straightforward, forward, including includingan anoutline outlineofofthe themission missionand andthe thequick quick action actionplan planfor forgoing goingforward. forward.The Thepurpose purposeofofthe the intervention interventionshould shouldbe bedecided decidedupon upon(is (isit itan anactivity, activity, transitional transitionalspace, space,education, education,art…?). art…?).AtAtthis thispoint point the theintervention interventionbegins beginstotocome comealive aliveand andcan canbe be advertised advertisedtotoexcite excitethe thecommunity. community.Once Oncethe thevision vision isisdetermined, determined,roles rolesofofstakeholder stakeholdercan canbe beassigned. assigned.

Between Betweenthe thevision visionand anddevelopment developmentphases phasesthe the community communityshould shouldbe beeducated educatedon onwhat whatisis happening, happening,this thiswill willincrease increasethe thelikeliness likelinessofof successful successfulpublic publicengagement. engagement.

This Thisphase phaseisisled ledby byprofessionals professionalsbut, but,uses useslocal local

55

Steps: Steps:Design, Design,Plan Plan(for (for

skills skillsand andknowledge knowledgefrom fromcommunity communityvolunteers volunteers

design designphase phaseand andfuture future

where wherepossible. possible.The Theintervention interventionisisdesigned designedbased based

maintenance), maintenance),Build Build

on onthe thecollected collecteddata dataand andavailable availableskills/resources, skills/resources,

Pilot Pilot

there thereisisaaplan planput putinto intoplace placefor forfuture futuremaintenance maintenance

Tools:Professional Professional&& Development Development Tools:

and andassessment, assessment,then thenit itcan canbe beconstructed. constructed.The The

Public Publicskills, skills,Encourage Encourage

healing healingtreatment treatmentbegins beginsininthe thepilot pilotdevelopment development

public publictotoparticipate, participate,

phase. phase.Like Likemedical medicaltreatments treatmentsthere thereisisnot notone one

Educate, Educate,Volunteering Volunteering

solution solutiontotoheal healall, all,therefore thereforethe theintervention interventionshould should start startas asaapilot pilotproject. project.The Thenature natureofofUA UAafter afterall, all,

56

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

should be small, adaptive, and flexible. This is experimental, the outcome phase will reassess if it is what the community needs, if it needs more to achieve impact or if it is ineffective. This abides by the theory of UA for minimal input and maximal impact. At this phase, regeneration begins to occur, the community is actively involved.

Like in human medicine a treatment does not always work as planned, a wellness check on the UA intervention should be performed after a predetermined amount of time. Interactions should be documented for later re-evaluation. The outcome of the intervention should analyze collected results and further data on the effectiveness of

Steps: Reflect, Document,

regeneration. The evaluation should form a deep

Re-evaluate, Adjust 6

understanding for local demographics, the people’s

Outcome

needs or wants and if the intervention successfully

Tools: Data collection,

meets these aspirations. If it is decided that the

Observation, Survey

intervention is unsuccessful, then the process should repeat to seek solutions and adjust. As Casagrande believes, the city is a living organism (Casagrande, 2019), this means it is always growing and evolving, therefore the interventions should remain flexible to be able to adapt to changing urban environments.

Figure 5.3 - The Urban Acupuncture Framework, Explained. Source: Madison Sacramone

5.3

APPLICATION OF THE FRAMEWORK; DEVELOPING A DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR LEITH.

The Urban Acupuncture Framework will be applied to a design proposal for Leith, Edinburgh to demonstrate the outcomes that may come from this design process. The qualitative methodology for this dissertation formed recommendations for sensitive spot selection and for preforming observational research of the site, these methods parallel the Locate and Context phases of the framework (Figure 5.2). The data collected from the observational research will be used to inform the later phases of intervention development. The framework is intended to be preformed collaboratively, informed by the public but, this will not be possible due to the restrictions for research engagements, therefore

57

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS

the autoethnographic observational research will act as the key informer for contextualizing people, place, and potential. The key observations from the methodological research (Figure 5.4) allude to conclusions on what may be required of the intervention to regenerate the area based on the community’s needs. To demonstrate the later phases of the framework, these conclusions will be utilized to interpret the (hypothetical) aspirations of the stakeholders to indicate what a design outcome from the framework may be.

It would be naive to suggest that this framework is the cure all to urban illnesses, especially because working in existing cities there will be ongoing projects of similar nature but, the UA Framework can elevate them. For example, the Scottish Government has similar initiatives in place for achieving a sustainable future through regeneration of its rural towns and cities. A key strategy they promote is community-led regeneration, which is supported by the Empowering Communities Fund, and other actions such as the Place Principle, request people, “work and plan together, and with local communities, to improve the lives of people, support inclusive and sustainable economic growth and create more successful places” (Regeneration, Scottish Government). Appendix 2 Future Plans also identifies other regenerative efforts in Leith. Existing projects like these can parallel and benefit from the Urban Acupuncture Framework as a supportive tool, likewise objectives can be met through the support of active local government schemes.

Context – In Appendix 2, the observations, existing conditions, and locations for amenities are represented at each scale. Figure 5.4 depicts a summary of the context with relevant interpretive solutions. Figure 5.5 represents the contexts of the existing micro elements of the site. This helps to visualize and interpret areas of potential into design solutions.

Objectives & Vision – Ideally, this phase would be performed as a collaborative group process, with engaging workshops and surveys. The following phases were preformed individually as demonstrations in this dissertation. The objectives will be addressed with potential solutions, this will lead to an overarching vision for the intervention where specific solutions are selected for their relevance in the mission and action plan. Figure 5.6 describes the potential result of each objective and Figure 5.7 illustrates the visionary action plan. The action plan depicts a phased approach for the UA intervention, this enables it to remain adaptive overtime as each phase is reassessed for its outcome results.

58

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

P

P EO

PL

LE COMBINATION OF PUBLIC/PRIVATE

PARENTS PUSH CHILDREN IN STROLLER

MULTIPLE INTERSECTING PATHS

PEOPLE CARRY A LOT OF GROCERIES BACK HOME

GREEN SPACES ARE PRIVATE

SHELTER FROM WEATHER

KIDS WALK WITH PARENTS TO / FROM SCHOOL

VACANT CONSTRUCTION SITE, UNSURE OF PLANS

DOG RUN AREAS CREATE MEETING & GATHERING AREA

ADULTS CYCLE THROUGH FOR TRANSPORTATION WALKING COMMUTE TO / FROM WORK

MIXED HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL STYLES RESIDENT IDENTITY, PERSONALIZES HOME AND GARDEN

INDIVIDUAL EXPRESSION

NO PLACE TO REST

RE-WILD; WILDFLOWER PLANTINGS

ELDERLY HAVE MORE DIFFICULTY WALKING ON PAVEMENT DOESN’T SEEM LIKE PEOPLE INTENTIONALLY SPEND TIME IN THIS PLACE

FEELING OF COMMUNITY

SEATING AREAS

LISTEN TO MUSIC ON HEADPHONES

NEIGHBORS STAND OUTSIDE BUILDING TO CHAT

EDUCATE PEOPLE ON HISTORY & CULTURE

NO ENGAGING FORMS SIGNIFICANT HISTORY LACKING EDUCATION ON THE HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE

SECOND-CLASS & LOW-INCOME SCHOOL CHILDREN

LINEAR SPATIAL ARRANGEMENT

ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO STAY

ONLY 1 TRASH BIN

PEOPLE RUN FOR EXERCISE

ACCESS TO PUBLIC GREEN SPACE

LITTER

KIDS RIDE SCOOTERS TALK ON THE PHONE

E

MATURE VEGETATION & PLANTINGS

PEOPLE WALK THEIR DOGS

TEENAGERS MEET IN GROUPS, STAND TO CHAT

AC

INCORPORATE LOCAL HISTORY & AESTHETIC

EDUCATE ON SUSTAINABLE HABITS

GRAFFITI URBAN WILDLIFE

ENCOURAGE CITIZEN PARTICIPATION THROUGH VOLUNTEER WORK REPAVE PATHWAY ENGAGE LOCAL CRAFTS & ARTISTS

KEY COMMUNITY MEMBERS, CAN BE LEADERS

PHASED DESIGN EVOLVES

LOCAL SKILL; ARTISTS, CONSTRUCTION & TRADESMEN

LOCAL RESOURCES FROM INDUSTRY; PORT, BREWERY

IMPROVE MATERIAL CONDITIONS

GREEN SPACES SHOULD BE MORE ACCESSIBLE WASTE MATERIALS; SAILS, WOOD, CONTAINERS, ROPE, KEG PATH IS ALREADY PUBLIC GOOD NATURE ELEMENTS; MATURE TREES & SHRUBS INCREASE BIODIVERSITY OF THE WILDLIFE; BIRDS, SQUIRRELS, INSECTS WELL CONNECTED TO HIGH ST AND WATER OF LEITH COMMUNITY INTEREST IN ART BETTER CONNECTIONS TO LOCAL ECONOMY

PO

TEN

INCREASE SAFETY

TIAL

Each circle includes key observations gathered from the qualitative and background research preformed in the observational site study. As advised by the Urban Acupuncture Framework, they are categorized as People, Place and Potential, these three elements are contextualized separately to create a narrative. From this narrative interpretations can be made on what the place needs to engage with its potential. The overlapping circles in the diagram represent summative interpretive solutions drawn from the significant observations in the individual circles.

Figure 5.4 - Summary of key site observations from qualitative research method. Source: Madison Sacramone

59

6

5 3

4 15 7

16 18

14

13 17

19 20 11 21

2

12

9

10

1

ce

la ny P ntho

St A

8

ate Kirkg r New g Cente in p p o Sh

The site is located just beyond the New Kirkgate Shopping Center, located at

1. South Leith Parish, Kirkyard & Church

12,14. Fenced green space, no access

the main junction of Leith Walk, connecting to the High Street. This area is a

2. Private Residence

13. Fenced green space limited access

significant entering point to Leith but, is currently lacking a welcoming aesthetic.

3,6,7. Mixed Residential, Owned, Rented, Social 15. Graffiti on temporary fence

The area is enclosed by residences, many of which include social housing. This

4. Vacant Lot/Construction

16,17. Path to Giles St

5. Linksview House, Social Housing

18. Mature trees and shrubs

8. Trinity House Maritime Museum

19. Path to Coatfield Ln

landmarks and a rich history as the former Old Kirkgate, which was a main

9. Floral Mural by local artist

20. Single trash bin

center for commerce and activity.

10,11. Private resident garden, fenced

21. Light posts

path is a convenient route to the vibrant area, Water of Leith and the harbor but, it is currently underused as the observations conclude most behaviors are mundane and individual, lacking social stimulation. It has various historic

Figure 5.5 - Existing conditions of site, micro-scale. Source: Madison Sacramone

60

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

Objective

Stimulate community activity

Potential Solutions o

Seating arrangements, people should be able to

o

Lead community members are responsible for

o

Create engaging activities and forms

o

Public art

o

Rewild with biodiversity-boosting planting techniques;

comfortably rest or socially gather maintenance and organizing potential events

wildflowers and local grass; encourage less Improve the environment

Educate

maintenance and eliminate use of lawn chemicals. o

Bird boxes and other wildlife habitats

o

Add trash bins and recycling

o

Educate people on gardening and urban farming

o

Influence healthier eating habits while encouraging participation with small community garden.

Improve quality of life

o

Visual aesthetics

o

A pleasing space to walk/cycle

o

Safety

o

Phased development approach

o Small-scale

Local

Multiple micro interventions constructed over a period of time

o

Plans for how it may grow

o

Small initial investment

o

Encourage community volunteers

o

Focus on the added value to primary users, the residents and commuters

o

Reuse materials

Figure 5.6- Objectives & Potential design solutions. Source: Madison Sacramone

61

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS January 2022

PREPARATION Locate Contextualize Interview & Survey Design Ethnography Workshops Collect Data Objectives Present Data Workshops Vision Advertise Survey Plan

April 2022 DESIGN / BUILD Design

Plan

June 2022

Multiple proposals by design professionals, Survey to vote on community priorities for phased design.

Phase 1 Re-wild and open green space to the public, improve signage for way-finding and historic information.

Phase 2 Public art exhibit, modular local artist wall on vacant lot.

Phase 3 The vacant lot is developed and the wall becomes a sculpture garden.

Phase 4 Integrate seating and community gardens.

Ongoing Organized community events and workshops; socials, public art and gardening.

Build Pilot Design - Phase 1

August 2022

Stakeholder Roles; Funding primarily from the city Labor primarily community lead by professional builders Maintained by local residents and existing building/city management Supervise by designers and urban planner professionals

Phase 2

Wildflower plantings by the community Signage provided by the city & historic society

Modular Wall is Built, Local artists and community members are recruited for street art murals

Assess the Outcome

January 2023

Phase 3

Have an idea of the plans for the vacant lot development Mural walls are removed in parts and arranged as a sculpture garden

April 2023

Phase 4

Seating areas are built where people congregate Vegetable gardens are integrated Celebration of 1 year, community planting activity

Assess the Outcome

Assess the Outcome

REGENERATION

People use the space for social activities Local residents feel a sense of pride, they are empowered to organize annual events such as replanting and rotating art murals.

Neighboring communities adopt similar concepts and initiatives for their own forms of Urban Acupuncture The historically vibrant path is restored.

The design of this Urban Acupuncture intervention aims to return the site back to its historic vibrancy while maintaining the modern urban identity and prioritizing local residents. The design will abide by Scotland’s Place Principle, it will work with the existing elements of the site with a phased plan for flexible interventions that may be completed on a timescale and reassessed throughout. The central path will remain due to its significant connections and a pocket park will grow from it, providing rest spaces among nature and engaging cultural art forms.

Figure 5.7 - The Vision; example quick action plan for New Kirkgate intervention. Source: Madison Sacramone

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

Pilot Development – The development stage is planned to occur in four stages, each building upon the previous. A phased approach was chosen so that funding can be dispersed, and the design can adapt to changing circumstances. For example, anti-social behaviors such as vandalism and litter were present at the site, the majority of this occurred near the fenced vacant lot (of which has unknown future plans), this informed the design intervention for a modular art wall (Figure 5.9) that will grow into a landscape art walk in following the development of the vacant area (Figure 5.10). While it is valuable to see the bigger picture, these phases start small and work up to meet the community’s aspirations.

Phase one of the intervention lays a foundation as a pilot project. By simply reclaiming green-space for public use, the previously locked gardens will go through a process of re-wilding, this process entails the planting of wildflowers and allowing varied native grasses to return (only cutting when necessary in path formations). The site will become more visually pleasing to residents and stimulating to wildlife biodiversity. The largest green-space will be opened to the public, and will develop into a vibrant social hub in phase four. Small planting areas will encourage community members to grow vegetables and herbs, this encourages equitable access to fresh food, especially where garden allotments in Leith are difficult to come by as they cater to higher wealth classes. Micro-phases of the garden and art intervention will allow residents to participate and acclimate, they can work closely with professionals to learn how to maintain the new intervention.

Outcome – While an outcome cannot be assessed until the intervention phases are complete, it is intended for the site to have a stronger local identity (accomplished with reuse of local industrial products), a healthier environment that improves QOL through access to nature and cultural arts (by rewilding green-spaces and promoting local artists), a better feeling of safety, benefits to local businesses and a return of social vibrance to the historic streetscape. The final design (Figure 5.13) intervention has the capacity to host group activities or individual with areas for micro-retreat that enable rest or longer conversations. While busyness is useful for social spontaneity and vibrance, adjacent quiet areas extend a person’s interaction with the intervention (Rishbeth et al., 2017). The intervention recognizes the potential of the place and will make it a destination rather than a passive transition.

Based on the assessed outcome of the intervention, the action plan may be altered. Additionally, the nature of this design intervention is very adaptive, the art wall panels made from reclaimed shipping containers can be repositioned seasonally. It has potential to become a cultural event for Leith, with regular repainting and rearranging of the public outdoor art exhibition. The intervention will ultimately instill pride in the community.

63

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS

PHASE 1 | URBAN RE-WILDING

B

A | Wildflower plantings in private garden, increase biodiversity.

B | Push back existing fence to create a public pocket park, increase usable space.

A

Figure 5.8- Phase 1 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone

A

PHASE 2 | FLEXIBLE PUBLIC ART A | Temporary fence around vacant lot, modular wall system made from re-used shipping. containers. Local artists create intentional murals, promotes culture and creative expression.

Figure 5.9- Phase 2 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone

64

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

C

PHASE 3 | MODULAR ART WALK

A

A | Modular wall breaks into segmants for an art walk, exhibits can periodically changed.

B | Additional trash and recycling bins as there will likely be more occupants.

C | Where the temporary wall was there will likely be plans for a development.

B

Figure 5.10- Phase 3 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone

B

PHASE 4 | GATHER & GROW

A

A | Modular garden boxes made from pallets.

B | Modular integrated seating made from pallets.

Figure 5.11- Phase 4 Design Proposal Illustrated. Source: Madison Sacramone

65

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS

Figure 5.12- Before intervention. Source: Madison Sacramone

Figure 5.13- After intervention. Source: Madison Sacramone

66

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

6

3

5 4

2

1

ce

la ny P ntho

St A

ate Kirkg r New g Cente in p p o Sh

The art walk and community garden space will bring vibrant activity

1. Private wildflower gardens

back to the space. Residents will feel empowered to get involved with

2. Additional trash bins and recycling

and take care of their community. Creating something such as this in

3. Modular insect habitat / public art wall made from shipping container

collaboration will create a sense of pride. The space remains flexible and has the potential to educate the public. The design highlights important intersections and provides space to gather. Drawing people to the space re-infuses the human energy, or Chi, creating a more sociable

4. Modular planting boxes made from reused wood pallets for community small garden plots 5. Original fence is moved back for a smaller private garden, allowing more space to be reclaimed and activated by the public.

environment. By fostering a democratic public space, the community

6. When the site reaches the point of regeneration the vacant lot should have more clear

members are given the tools to prosper long-term.

plans for development.

Figure 5.14 - Existing conditions of site, micro-scale. Source: Madison Sacramone

67

CHAPTER 5: RESULTS

Figure 5.15 - Fully illustrated intervention, view from above. Source: Madison Sacramone

68

6

CHAPTER 6

CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS This chapter will summarize the conclusions of this dissertation and make recommendations for future studies based on the methods and findings derived from the qualitative research and design proposal.

CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 CONCLUSIONS With the essential guidance and tools, UA is a catalyst for solving issues facing cities. Cities have the power to command social, economic, and environmental regeneration (Loeckx et al., 2004), especially when interventions are selected from a comprehensive analysis of people, planet, and profit (AlHinkawi & Al-Saadi, 2020). UA utilizes a bottom-up approach which aims to redistribute urban energy by first assessing micro-level relative conditions of a city (Landry, 2005) and then by imposing smallscale designs with maximal impact to enhance urban qualities which are degraded by the incompatible, large-scale developments. There are many energetic forces in a city yet, humans are the essential life source, the Chi (Yimeng, 2015), in order for these energies to prosper long-term, the complex relationships between these energetic forces must be evaluated to improve communities, stimulate the economy and improve the environment (Casagrande, 2013). A culturally literate designer will have better knowledge for predicting sensitive spots to intervene with UA and harness maximal energetic forces for adaptive and lasting regeneration.

The review of other models for micro-interventions and UA revealed that they are primarily theoretical and lack a holistic perspective because they only outline singular methods, principles, and strategies.

A holistically guided Framework for implementing the theory as a strategy makes it more attainable in the name of future-proofing urban centers. The proposed Urban Acupuncture Framework is inspired by others but, it combines collaborative methods with strategies of UA, including localized and small-scale intervention methods influenced by community members (Nassar, 2021). Local and social approaches to UA interventions will create lasting solutions in cities.

As a result of the Urban Acupuncture Framework, the city can begin regeneration and communities become empowered to enact change. The metaphor between humans and cities represents how cities are alive and they can die. Like Chinese medicinal acupuncture heals the human body, in an urban context it can promote organic and sustainable growth by strengthening urban relationship (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). A practitioner is only as good as their knowledge and tools, the Urban Acupuncture Framework demonstrates how planners and designers can transform into urban acupuncturists by giving them the necessary guidance to work with the community (patients) to collaboratively form a treatment to heal the urban skin and regenerate the world’s cities.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

6.2 RECOMMENDATIONS History proves evident that cities change and evolve, as humans do too, therefore our urban designs must remain adaptable and flexible so that the world’s cities can grow with their people. They also must promote high QOL and this often involves alteration to cultural norms by way of public engagement to create more inspiring, people-centric environments (Nassar, 2021). The reclaiming of space to the public can simultaneously benefit the environment by providing people with access to nature and nature the access to bio-diversify. While Casagrande’s theory on the “Third Generation City” (Casagrande, 2019) may be too extreme for urban micro interventions (this model is a bigpicture plan, achieved over time with multiple interventions), it employs UA to return modern man to nature, a key principle in new urbanism to improve QOL. It is recommended that UA design interventions incorporate aspects of public engagement and methods for urban greening social hubs.

While developing an UA intervention has the capacity to be simple and immediate, the Urban Acupuncture Framework is intended to achieve maximal community engagement, and this has been proposed in multiple steps. By identifying a sensitive spot and enacting the processes guided by the framework, a successful intervention will form and will then empower residents and neighboring communities to create interventions of their own. These may be smaller scale and community lead but, the original intervention from the framework is designed with the power to enact this ripple effect of change, therefore will have achieved multi-scale impact from micro to macro. Compared to traditional urban development plans, the proposed framework is still a quick-action plan with the potential to create permanent intervention in under one year (pilot interventions may occur in under 6 months).

In this dissertation it was difficult to effectively demonstrate the Urban Acupuncture Framework as a full design practice, due to limitations it remains a hypothetical proposal. While the design proposal for Leith, Edinburgh does not represent the most accurate example, it does prove how essential it is to work collaboratively between professionals and the public to effectively achieve the guidance provided by the framework. Admittingly, I did not follow my own guidance to work collaboratively due my restrictions of research, access to participants and time. While the proposed methods of qualitative research, especially observational research was very informative, as an UA practitioner I found it difficult to develop a treatment without feedback from the public. Ultimately, the design proposal is presumptive yet, it still demonstrates how UA interventions can formulate responses to issues which create urban voids.

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Evaluating the context of an existing city should also include further research on relevant local and national regeneration initiatives because UA practices can elevate them. This can be achieved by working with local governments to gain support and funding (although minimal, further study on methods to generate initial funds is required). In future studies, it is recommended that a mixed group of professionals and public participants are involved in a series of workshops and surveys. Although ethnography was not the only research method applied, in combination with literature review and other desk-based research it has helped to immerse into the culture of place. Methods of ethnographic, observational research should be further explored in a collaborative setting. If possible, a pilot design should be constructed and then evaluated using design ethnography to fully contextualize the site and compare pre-intervention to post-intervention outcomes.

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7

CHAPTER 7

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8

CHAPTER 8

APPENDICES The following appendices contain materials that are too detailed to include in the main portion of this dissertation.

The information in this chapter supports the whole body of text and elaborates on theories their research methods.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

8.1

APPENDIX 1

METHODOLOGY; TOOLKIT & SYSTEMATIC PROCEDURE FOR FIELDWORK This appendix includes recommendations for the fieldwork process.

I drafted tools and procedures in preparation for my fieldwork and then revised them to present this method for observational fieldwork to evaluate intervention points for proposed urban acupuncture designs. The “toolkit” is outlined first, this concludes that field note-taking is an essential and complex method which required additional recommendations. Then, the systematic procedure which I used during my fieldwork is outlined as a step-by-step agenda, this is a useful and adaptive guide for a researcher intending to preform ethnographic analysis for design practices. * Reference: Chapter 4: Methodology, 4.3.2 Preliminary planning of fieldwork.

TOOLKIT FOR FIELDWORK

This toolkit outlines the skills and items the fieldworker needs to contextualize a place with a design-driven approach to observational research.

Observational skills this dissertation has provided examples and tools for what to look for as the fieldworker observes the site and its relative multiple sensory experiences. (see Figures 2.4 – 2.6, 4.3, 4.6)

Fieldnote skills can be taken one of two ways either by written notes (hand or digital) or by audio voice recording.

Sketching skills quickly capturing events or spaces Writing skills concisely write notes and summaries Video the fieldworker should have device capable of taking video, either a smartphone or camera should be sufficient.

Audio the fieldworker should have an audio recording device to capture the sense of sound at the site. A smartphone is acceptable but, may not have the highest quality.

Photograph the fieldworker should have a smartphone or camera capable of clear photography, images are some of the most useful tools to analyze.

Time keeping track of the time is useful in fieldnote-taking to keep notes in order.

Writing/Drawing Utensils; pens or pencils based on preference for writing and sketching.

Notebook; for documenting the observations.

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CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

FIELDNOTE RECOMMENDATIONS

On the day(s) that the researcher chooses to preform the observational research inspired by autoethnographic methods, it is important to prepare a strategy for fieldnote-taking because it is perhaps the most valuable tool in the fieldwork toolkit. The fieldnotes represent the bulk of the data collected by the researcher, they provide evidence to significant findings and conclusions.

By creating a strategy we can ensure we will collect the necessary information. In our notes we want to maintain a distinction between “self” and “others” because our perception of each is different (Chang, 2008). This helps the fieldworker to understand how they fit into the cultural setting as an individual.

You may still have questions for further exploration which may lead you to either continue observation or answer them through desk-based research as suggested in the analysis phase of fieldwork. * For additional guidance on what to look for in your fieldwork reference Figures 4.3 & 4.6 * For other fieldwork suggestions Chapter 4: Methodology, 4.3.2 Preliminary planning of fieldwork.

Example of my systematic fieldnotes for an observational study as it relates to the preliminary process of Urban Acupuncture.

Setting Sensory

Time

Question the observed

Fact

Personal feelings Numbers

Figure 8.1 - Annotated example of systematic fieldnotes. Source: Madison Sacramone

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

* Annotated guide to fieldnote-taking

TITLE: Observational Research Fieldnotes LOCATION: Address or coordinates of site in study DATE: The day that the fieldwork takes place

START TIME: The time the

researcher begins recording. Log

time continuously about every 10 minutes to keep observations in order.

WEATHER CONDITIONS: Describe the weather at the point of fieldwork, is it raining or sunny? What is the temperature?...

OTHER RELEVANT CONDITIONS: Are there any other conditions to note that may effect the study? ie: construction, an event taking place...

RESPOND

RECORD TIME LOG

Explanation

Facts & Numbers.

Details on what you see happening. This may include quotes from overheard conversations. This is an observation of “others”

Example

IMPRESSION DETAILS

OBSERVATION DETAILS

Sensory & Feelings.

Details on sight, smell, sounds, textures, taste and how this makes you feel physically or emotionally. This is an analysis of “self”

RESEARCH’S RESPONSE The response may include questions that require further investigation or perhaps you have already come to conclusions.

(Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016)

(Sunstein & Chiseri-Strater, 2016)

Observation an Impression details do not both need to be noted for each response, a response can relate to both, or it can relate to observation details individually and the same for impression details.

19:30

Observation Detail 1

No associated impression

Response 1

19:40

Observation Detail 2

Impression Detail 1 (Relates to observe)

Response 2

Figure 8.2 - Fieldnote layout guide. Source: Madison Sacramone

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SYSTEMATIC PROCEDURE FOR FIELDWORK

This procedure is meant to outline the tasks I preformed during the observational site visit and act as a tool for other design-researchers interested in this form of autoethnographic inspired research.

This procedure, or agenda of-sorts, will reference tools and methods which were previously mentioned in this dissertation.

Due to the limitations and time constraints of this dissertation, the observational fieldwork activity took place within an intensive study period of 12-hours. During this time the fieldworker (myself) visited the site four times for a period of one hour each. The fieldnotes document the entire experience and events which took place within the 12-hour period, including occurrences inbetween the site visits. Since the site was visited on multiple occasions, it was important to follow a systematic procedure to ensure consistency, the procedure acts as the constant among the many variables that occur during an observational study of this nature. * For other fieldwork suggestions Chapter 4: Methodology, 4.3.2 Preliminary planning of fieldwork.

FIELDWORK IN A 12-HOUR PERIOD The time of site visits were selected for their potential variety of activity and users, they are based on my general knowledge of the urban clock, 9:00am is a commuter time, 12:00pm is lunch hour, 4:00pm is rush hour people returning home and 9:00pm is dusk when people are usually home.

12:00 PM

9:00 PM

9:00 AM

4:00 PM

TIME BEFORE ARRIVING AT THE SITE

1 HOUR AT THE SITE

TIME BETWEEN SITE VISITS

FIELDWORK STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE

While fieldnotes should be taken throughout the entire 12-hour period, the most detailed and important ones should take place during the four site visits. Each visit will be about 1 hour 30 minutes. This procedure outlines my method for observational research upon arrival at the site. * *See Figure 4.6 for further guidance on what to consider and observe for opportunity categories.

1 ARRIVE TO THE SITE Prior to arrival the journey up until this point has been documented for significant occurrences. The fieldworker is now on the site and ready to begin a through socio-spatial analysis to asses the site for urban acupuncture intervention.

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2 ROAM 5 minutes | Walk around and through the site to get a sense of its circulation. Don’t just follow the main path, venture to desire paths; this describes the trails left behind from people walking across a specific area, like grass, which forms an informal pathway (Casanova & Hernandez, 2014). Take note of observations and impressions.

3 VIDEO 2 minutes | Document the site through video, this will help the fieldworker to further analyze after leaving the site and will be a key element in the research portfolio.

4 SOUND 2 minutes | Take a sound recording of the site, this will also be an asset to the research portfolio for further study on the senses.

5 PINPOINT In this study, the fieldworker is the pinpoint of the urban acupuncture needle. The fieldworker should sit in a central area on the site with a 360-degree view of the surroundings.

6 MEDITATE IN THE SPACE 5 minutes | Simply sit and observe without taking notes. The fieldworker should focus on impressions, how the space makes them feel. By isolating sensations such as sight, smells, sounds and textures, they can be more deeply realized.

7 DETAILED FIELDNOTES 45 minutes | The fieldworker should thoroughly observe the site and take note of experiences and observations no matter how big or small. Using the outlined systematic fieldnote recommendations, the researcher can organize factual and sensory experiences.

8 SKETCH 15 minutes | The fieldworker should then sketch vignettes of significant observations, including interactions and spatial arrangements. Remember, we are contextualizing the socio-spatial dynamics of the place so, how do they work in tandem?

9 PHOTOGRAPH 15 minutes | At this point the fieldworker has a thorough understanding of the site. Take a minimum of 10 photographs of the site, especially of areas or items which you observed as significant.

10 VIDEO 2 minutes | Again, document the site in a video because at this point it has been over an hour since it was last recorded, there may be some differences in occurrences.

11 SOUND 2 minutes | Again, document the site with audio recording in the case changed have occurred.

12 SUMMARY Once the fieldworker completes the study they should summarize it as soon as possible. It is recommended to leave the site and find a comfortable place to summarize the fieldnotes and observations whilst they are fresh in memory. The summary may take form of a narration of significant observations.

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CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

8.2

APPENDIX 2

METHODOLOGY; RESEARCH PORTFOLIO Work collected from preliminary phases, during and after observational fieldwork to thoroughly contextualize the place.

As mentioned in Chapter 4.3.2 Preliminary planning of fieldwork, the research portfolio is a collection of all the data, artifacts and observations from the research process. Joining all of the information in one place helps to fully visualize the site, significant observations and relative conditions.

1

BACKGROUND RESEARCH

A collection of the background research on the selected study site in New Kirkgate, Leith, Edinburgh. An informative profile of the site helps to contextualize the site from a desk-based analysis to better inform the later fieldwork study.

This is the starting point of the research portfolio.

LOCATION Located in an area which is now known as New Kirkgate, this area in Leith has significant ties to central Edinburgh.

The site is located at the bottom of Leith Walk, a main road that begins at Princess Street (a major place for activity and commerce in Edinburgh) and directly links to Old Town Leith.

LEITH

TOP OF LEITH WALK

EDINBURGH

BOTTOM OF LEITH WALK N

Figure 8.3 – Map showing the adjacency for Edinburgh center to Leith. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

84

Figure 8.4 – Top and Bottom of Leith Walk Source: Images by Madison Sacramone.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

M

4

3 2

1

N

00m

CO

²

AT F I

1,3

ELD

L N.

GIL

ES

S T.

The scope of the site in study is New Kirkgate, more specifically the neighborhood just behind the new shopping center within the space between Giles st. and Coatfield ln. (aprox. 1,300m²) I have identified this area as an urban void that feels disconnected from its heritage and local aesthetics. This area has high potential to regenerate positive energy to the community.

Significant adjacencies include 1) Newkirkgate shopping center, 2) South Leith Parish Church, 3) Trinity House of Leith, 4) Linksview House Figure 8.5 – Aerial view of site. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

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CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

HISTORY Leith has a deeply rooted history in the port and sailing industry. The site in study, Kirkgate, is located in ‘Old Leith’ which is classified as a significant conservation area. It is adjacent to a variety of historic sites and landmarks.

OLD KIRKGATE

1910s

1970s

Figure 8.6 – Comparison of 1910s (left) and 1970s (right) Historic Map of the Leith Site. Source: Digimap Online Database, Historic Roam.

At one point, the bottom of Leith Walk was made up of 5 roads, present day only 4 of them are open to vehicles, ‘Kirk Gate’ is the one now only open to pedestrians. It is historically the oldest and one of Leith’s most vital road links. The street name translates to the “way to the kirk,” of which is the South Leith Parish (1487) (The Newsroom, 2017).

The above maps show a comparison of how Kirk Gate changed to what it is today.

Before its demolition in the 1960s, it was full of commerce and vibrant activity, including shops, markets and even a theatre (The Newsroom, 2017). This was all replaced with a residential community including social housing, at this point, the area lost its moxie and liveliness.

The area of ‘Old Leith’ is now a conservation area (see pictured on the left). The original medieval street patterns are still prevalent in most of Old Leith with connections to the port but, Kirkgate incorporates ideas of 1960s designs to elate buildings to their surroundings.

Design principles of British post-war reconstruction and the development of new ‘satellite’ communities aimed to separate pedestrians from cars (Leith Conservation Area Character Appraisal).

Figure 8.7 – Conservation areas in Leith. Source: “Leith Conservation Area Character Appraisal,” The City of Edinburgh Council, p. 4.

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

SOUTH LEITH PARISH CHURCH

The building is Victorian Gothic style dating to 1847, more recent than the parish itself which has remarkable Georgian grave stones (Leith Conservation Area Character Appraisal). The Parish (the oldest building in Kirkgate) and Trinity house are two of the original buildings that still stand.

Prior to the reconstruction of the area, the church sat among a thickly settled and lively area, the area is now critiqued for its lack of appeal and preservation, “The New Kirkgate shopping precinct and housing development to the north disregard the distinctive organic structure and scale of the surrounding urban pattern. The Kirgate is a courtyard of low rise housing with zigzag rendered fronts which is terminated by the multi-storey slab of Linksview House.”

(Leith Conservation Area Character Appraisal, p. 17)

Figure 8.8 – Image of South Leith Parish Church present day. Source: Madison Sacramone

TRINITY HOUSE OF LEITH

Present day Trinity House displays remarkable collections of Leith’s maritime past. Historically, the building was the Port of Leith headquarters for Mariners and Ship-masters for nearly 200 years (Historic Environment Scotland Database). The classical Georgian house on Kirkgate dates back to 1816. The structure is built on top of the foundations of Leith’s first hospital from 1614 (The Newsroom, 2017).

“For people born and brought up in Leith, Trinity House is well-known and a respected and important part of the local community and of what it means to be a ‘Leither’.” (Historic Environment Scotland Database)

Figure 8.9 – Image of early 20th century view of Leith’s Kirkgate and Trinity House Source: Adapted from “Lost Edinburgh: Old Kirkgate recalled” by The Newsroom, Edinburgh News, 2017.

Figure 8.10– Image of Trinity House of Leith present day.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland Database

The highlighted areas shows the site in study before it was demolished in the 1960s.

PORT & SAILING INDUSTRY

Industry in Leith was largely influenced by the Port, it is a gateway to Europe and has served Edinburgh as a main port since 1329, it has remained as so for nearly five centuries. The port created specialized trades such as ship and sail making, it also brought international influences and merchant trades.

(Leith Conservation Area Character Appraisal) 87

CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

LINKSVIEW HOUSE

The New Kirkgate area is now designed with low-rise housing except for the Linksview House (19647) which sits at the foot of the site. Although poorly maintained, this building is a significant example of modern Brutalist design, with resemblance to the famous Le Corbusier’s Unité d’Habitation model housing. It was constructed as a result of Scotland’s post-war mass urban housing schemes, today it remains as social housing for the lower income class of Leith (Historic Environment Scotland). In its present state, Linksview House is regarded both as a positive and negative architectural icon.

Figure 8.11 – Image of Linksview House Present Day, view from site. Source: Madison Sacramone

ENVIRONMENTAL The climatic conditions in Leith, Edinburgh vary throughout the year. The Climate Classification is CFB (Marine West Coast Climate), a temperate climate with significant amounts of precipitation. The below diagrams show the relative environmental conditions throughout the year.

TEMPERATURE

RAIN FALL

30°C

120 mm

25°C 100 mm

20°C 15°C

80 mm

10°C 5°C

60 mm

0°C -5°C

40 mm

-10°C 20 mm

-15°C -20°C

0 mm

WIND SPEED

WIND DIRECTION

DAYLIGHT HOURS

SUN PATH Summer Solstice - June 21st | Winter Solstice - December 21st

Figure 8.12 – Environmental and Climatic Conditions in Leith. Source: Adapted from Average Weather in Edinburgh, Weather Spark.

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DEMOGRAPHICS The site has diverse demographics and will be analyzed to characterize the type of people and households in New Kirkgate. It is important to know who the intervention will be for.

POPULATION

Population by Age groups Age demographics by % of population in various age groups. The majority of the population is between ages 16 to 64.

AGES 65+

AGES 35 - 64

AGES 16 - 34

AGES 0 - 15

Population Density at the site is 248.7 people per hectare. This is very high in comparison to other areas in Leith.

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Figure 8.13 – Maps showing Population Demographics.

Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

HOUSEHOLD TYPOLOGY

Households that are Owners / Renters aprox. 40% of households on the site are owned, 27% are privately rented and 28% are socially rented. The vast majority around the site is also mainly occupied by renters.

OWNED

SOCIALLY RENTED

PRIVATELY RENTED

People living in households The majority of people by the site live alone, this accounts for over 52% of households. Whilst aprox.

10% live with a legal partner. 20.8% of Family households have one dependent child.

MARRIED AND CIVIC PARTNERS

PEOPLE LIVE ALONE

FAMILIES WITH ONE CHILD

FAMILIES WITH TWO CHILDREN

Figure 8.14 – Maps showing local Household Demographics. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

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PERCENT OF PEOPLE BORN IN THE UK

The vast majority of people in Leith are from the UK. More than 80% of people nearest to the site are from the UK. This suggests strong heritage, cultural ties to the United Kingdom.

Figure 8.15 – Maps showing UK Born Demographics. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

MULTIPLE DEPRIVATIONS

Figure 8.16 – Maps showing levels of Multiple Deprivations in Leith. Source: Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation, 2020.

The 2020 Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivations (2020) shows that the site in study is apart of the 10% most deprived populations.

This is calculated through an accumulated score of seven domains: income, employment, education, health, access to services, crime and housing.

FUTURE PLANS

By looking at other project proposals for Leith Town Center, I can justify it is needed whilst finding inspiration for my research and design.

TOWN CENTER FIRST POLICY

The Scottish Government has goals under Town Centre First Policy to improve appearances, quality, and attractiveness while sustaining the vitality of all centers. There is a desire to promote the town center as the heart of the community. The policies outlined by the government suggest six qualities in a regenerative development; Distinctive, Safe and Pleasant, Welcoming, Adaptable, Resource Efficient, Easy to Move Around and Beyond (Draft Supplementary Guidance Leith Town Center, 2015).

PROPOSALS FOR LOW TRAFFIC NEIGHBORHOODS

There has been an ongoing Spaces for People Program, the Edinburgh Council has recently preformed a 2021 survey on the value of low traffic neighborhoods, including those in Leith. Research shows a multitude of positive impacts from initiatives like this, they include better air quality, reduced traffic and resident health improved (Developing Low Traffic Neighbourhoods for Communities across Edinburgh, 2021). The initial goals for Leith are, “enhancing and promoting access to public transport, improving cycling provision in the area, addressing issues with traffic volume and speed in residential streets,” the survey assessed how people get places and the results show that, walking was used for the highest proportion of journeys (44-65% of trips) and cycling was used significantly less (13-23% of trips) (Developing Low Traffic Neighbourhoods for Communities across Edinburgh, 2021).

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2

FIELDWORK

The outputs of the fieldwork process include fieldnotes, narrative summaries, drawing, video, audio and photographs.

Appendix 1 outlined the procedure, this section will display the collected data acquire by using the recommended tools and method.

FIELDNOTES The full extent of fieldnotes will not be included, but Appendix 1 explains the process with relative examples. The fieldnote narrative summaries are derived from the observational notes taken during the fieldwork.

FIELDNOTE NARRATIVE SUMMARY

9:00 AM

Today I woke up at 7:30am feeling rather groggy from the gloomy skies. I immediately

made myself a big, warm cup of black coffee. I wished it was a nicer day as it was on the colder and windier side of August in Edinburgh (15 degree Celsius). Whilst enjoying my coffee I reviewed the tasks that I would perform today for this fieldwork. I then got dressed and packed my “toolkit” for the onsite fieldwork. I was feeling very proud and well prepared for my observational fieldwork. At 8:30am I began to walk to the site from my flat in Abbey Hill to the site in Leith, New Kirk Gate. I walked from Easter Rd. and crossed over to Leith Walk just two blocks from the site, although they are both main roads I could notice the differences between the two, Easter Rd was more quiet and Leith Walk was rather stress inducing with construction, heavy traffic and people rushing their way to work. The construction in the area made me feel uncomfortable and, in some ways, lost since there were many detours to approach the site. I questioned what the purpose of the construction was? I overheard a man say “they are constructing new Tram lines but it has been delayed due to a nation-wide concrete shortage.” I found this slightly amusing because I know the relative opinion of these Trams is that they are unnecessary and a disruption to the Leith community, the man seemed frustrated at the fact they would take longer to construct.

Once I arrived at the site at 9:00am, the South Leith Parish bells rang one minute past the

hour. The sound of church bells in a city make me feel nostalgic and I think of a time in history when people didn’t have a literal computer with a digital clock in their pocket. Although the site is relatively newly developed, there is a subtle nod to history in the bells from the old Parish and the nearby Trinity House of Leith.

I looked for a central spot to sit down and set up but, there was not one place to sit

comfortably. I ended up sitting on the dusty, littered, concrete floor next to a tree rooted in brick pavers. I hoped to sit in one of the few green spaces, but they are fenced off with no access. Some people looked at me strangely for just sitting on the ground, but what was I supposed to do? I began to sit and observe. I instantly recognized there were many dogs with their owners, there was a wide range of age groups and the sound of the rustling trees brings comfort to the rather rigid space.

I saw a group of 7 young-teens wearing school uniforms walk out of the adjacent kirkyard

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laughing, and I wondered why aren’t they in school yet? I later overheard a boy shout to a woman on the street, “School is out, something happened, so everyone is off now,” the woman replied, “I hope your mom knows,” the boy made a remark to his friend that the woman was a friend of his mother. This made sense of my observations because I saw quite a few groups aged about 12-15 wandering the area, likely because their school was out.

I observed several younger children ages 4-6 in school uniform walking with their parents

to what I assume would be school. The parents looked happy to be spending time with their children, some kids even cycled or scootered. This felt wholesome and nostalgic to observe.

I heard a sharp whistling sound, I looked to see where it was coming from. It was a

woman (about 50 years-old) whistling into the green space. I was a bit confused why she was doing this, was she calling birds? Does she just like to whistle? It turned out, she was calling her dog, the dog slowly wandered back to her from the furthest end of the site. As a dog owner myself, I was impressed at the dog for returning, my dog would never! I did wonder how long the dog had been outside because at this point I was there for 20 minutes. This same woman said “hello” to a few people of who she seemed to know personally. It became obvious that she is a significant member of this neighborhood.

I observed a few separate parents with their infants leave the residences, they too must

have been locals. Within the short time I was on the site, I saw them leave and then return with plastic bags filled with groceries from Lidl.

A house at the beginning of the site has a beautiful mural, the mural was a very different

style from the impromptu graffiti on the opposite side of the site, did the graffiti or mural come first? I also noticed the same residence eclectically decorated their private garden, with plants, wind chimes and other handmade items. I wondered if perhaps an artist lived there?

The nature of this time of day I found to be quite telling, I tried to analyze if people were

locals on their way to work, staying home or if they were not local, just passing through the site on their way to somewhere else. For some people, it was not as easy to say if they were local or not. Many people hastily walked through the space without stopping. I did notice that people who walked alone never smiled, but people who were with another or in a group always smiled or laughed. Some of the fast walkers were dressed for work so, it is likely they were rushing to the office. I did not see one person stop for more than 15 seconds. Those who didn’t rush were strolling with takeaway coffee or quick on the go breakfasts from either Greggs or Lidl. People who seemed to live in the area also seemed to be in less of a rush to be somewhere, a handful of them also said a brief “hello” to neighbors.

Throughout my entire visit I felt a bit self-conscious as people looked at me strange

for sitting in this space. A man said to me, “Are you alright?” I was taken off-guard but also appreciated his consideration. I would normally not feel so outcasted for simply sitting in a public space, but I truly felt very out of the ordinary for voluntarily spending time in the space whilst

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others directly made their way through.

After my visit, I went to a local café just around the corner where I am currently drinking

coffee number two whilst summarizing my fieldnotes in this narrative essay and preparing for my

12:00 PM

next visit.

I left the café around 11:45 to return to the site, this time by cycling. I realized how

challenging it was to get to from a bike because of the blocked roads and bike lane from construction. Upon returning to the site at 12:00pm, I noticed many workers, primarily tradesmen and construction workers, eating their lunches. Due to the inadequate amount of seating, many of them just leaned against a fence or wall in a group. As I took a video approaching the site, people looked at me strangely, like “why would you take a picture here?”

The New Kirk Gate shopping center was very busy, most people were either quickly

getting groceries or lunch for takeaway. Knowing what I do from the background research, the previous Old Kirk Gate historically was a bustling street in Leith, full of activity and commerce.

Sitting at the site today, I found it difficult to imagine that. Where did the liveliness go? It now seems like a transitional void, only a destination for necessities such as groceries, walking the dog, going to work/school and walking home. It is no longer a destination for social stimulation and activity.

Outside of the South Leith Parish Kirkyard a truck was parked with a line of people

outside of it. I inquired for more information and learned it was an addiction outreach program that was supplying warm drinks, information, and assistance to people seeking to overcome addictions. It became evident to me that there was a large amount of people seeking this assistance, therefore it is an issue throughout the Leith community. This caused alarm for my personal safety concerns but, I still felt compassionate for those trying to better themselves.

I situated myself in the exact same dusty, concrete spot and once again received

unapproving looks from others. Two police officers walked through the site and I wondered if they would question what I was doing but, they did not. It felt a safe assurance that the police were there, but I also questioned why do they needed to be there, in this small residential area?

Fewer people seemed to rush through the space and larger groups of people were present.

The same whistling woman was there, and her dog was still outside, she talked with a group of neighbors for some time, they just stood in the passageway of the building. I saw other people from earlier as well, this made me realize who may be working or living locally. Other dogs were also walking through the space off-leash which may suggest the owner brings them here often.

Some larger groups also included a cheerful family of 5 (Child, two women, two men) walking towards the Leith Harbor, perhaps they had plans for the day.

I began to realize the decaying condition of the pavement once a man popped his bike

tire in the middle of the site. I felt so bad for him, that would put a damper on your day. Another 94

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

disabled woman struggled over the bumps in the pavement on her electric wheelchair. Realizing just how dirty and moist the pavement was, I was became increasingly uncomfortable sitting on the cracked ground. As the wind would blow you can simultaneously hear the trees rustle and litter blow against the surface of the concrete. I picked up 10 items of litter within a 0.5 square meter area. I also could here the beeping and grinding of construction from afar.

As I left the site around 1:30pm, many kids ages 13-16 were getting lunch from shops

in New Kirk Gate, including Lidl, Greggs and Poundland. I thought to myself, how could they possibly be eating adequately healthy lunches? This coupled with the eating habits I observed in my earlier observation, people eating quick on the go breakfasts, made me wonder how these habits may be affecting people’s health.

On the topic of lunch, I cycled back to my flat in Abbey Hill for lunch, where I now

4:00 PM

summarize my visit and prepare for the next.

I left my flat around 3:45, this time too the bus to the site. It was the beginning of rush-

hour, people were on their way home from work and school. The roads were filled with traffic which was only worsened by the construction which blocks over half of Leith Walk. The bus was full of people mostly elderly, workers and teenagers returning from school. Many of them talked on the phone with what I assumed was family, they caught up about their day.

Approaching the site I noticed many groups of 6 or more teenagers, a few were all boys

and others had a mix of boys and girls. They were standing in separate groups talking. The New Kirk Gate shopping center was busy with people in work attire getting groceries.

As I walked closer to the site, a little girl (age 5) was on a pink scooter going back and

forth across the pavement, her mother watched from a distance. Her path was disrupted by a trash bin located in the middle of the walkway. An older couple (age 70) walked around her and smiled at her, she was so freely enjoying herself, it was heartwarming to watch. The sound of her scooter made loud and abrasive noise against the rigid concrete, but her laughter made up for this.

Other pairs of parents (ages 30-40) and children (ages 5-10) walk through the site, usually

mothers with their children and some mothers accompanied by fathers. The kids wore backpacks, I assumed they were on their way home from school. The kids were often very chatty and shared stories about their day a school. One girl (age 6), was especially inquisitive, she asked her mother, “I learned about a scary animal, are there crocodiles here?” the mother answered, “Well, we don’t have to worry about them, there are no crocodiles in this country.” The girl showed interest in learning about the natural world, it excited her, and this was inspiring to see at such a young age.

Many of the other parents with their children carried heavy-looking shopping bags from Lidl. One couple pushed a stroller whilst each carrying 4 plastic grocery bags, they stopped at the midpoint of the site for a brief 30 second rest and then continued on their journey home.

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Compared to my earlier visit, I observed people were walking more leisurely. People

who walked alone were either wearing headphones or talking on the phone. I observed 7 couples holding hands, chatting, and laughing. The groups that were at the site were two separate groups of teenagers, one group of 4 had bicycles and the other group of 6 (4 boys and 2 girls) met up and stood outside the kirkyard talking. The group of 6 suddenly began to stare at me, I wondered if they noticed me observing the site. I felt awkwardly uncomfortable and hoped they wouldn’t come up to me because I had a quite unfriendly sense about them. They did not end up approaching me, rather they just left the site.

At this time, I felt a better sense of locality in the neighborhood. I heard people talking

from inside the adjacent flats and noticed lingering savory smell from an open kitchen window, it was just about time for dinner. The community was winding down, it felt more at ease with the sound of pigeons and seagulls among the slow breeze in the trees, with no more sounds of construction. Many people walked their dogs, 2 of which were off leash. I witnessed 3 owners did not clean up after their dog’s mess. A family of 5 leisurely walked their dog together in casual attire, the 2 children looked so happy to be with their dog. A few individuals ran or cycled through the site for evening exercise. One man took a picture of the mural and it caused a couple to observe it as well. There was a more peaceful sense of the place compared to earlier visits.

Leaving the site I once again observed groups of teens in the New Kirk Gate shopping

center. They still stood in groups but, now they ate takeaway food from the nearby shops. I decided to go into Lidl myself to pick up some groceries as it was the nearest shop. My knowledge of Lidl is that it is a low-cost grocery store. I am very conscious of my plastic use and the quality of produce I consume, so I was less than impressed by the options in the shop. The limited amount of produce did not look fresh. I purchased only a couple items from the shop and then took the bus

9:00 PM

back home. The streets and the bus were both less busy than earlier.

After eating dinner in, I made my way back to the site by walking down Leith Walk.

The sunset cast beautiful golden and pink hues across the sky. It was windy and I felt quite cold.

Passing shops and restaurants on the way, many people were leaving with takeaway dinners or looked like they were returning from a dinner out. The only places open seemed to be late-night takeaways, grocery stores and pubs.

Walking through the New Kirk Gate shopping center there were hardly any people, it

was very quiet. Arriving at the site the church bells again rang at 9:01pm. I was concerned for my safety being at the site whilst it became dark but, the streetlights flicked on at 9:10pm. The lights were relatively dim but efficiently lit the space.

Most people walking their dogs had them off leash, they looked familiar with the place.

People walking with their dogs had a slower pace than others who hastily walked through the site

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alone. I thought, maybe they felt unsafe, so they walked quickly?

Three neighbors stood by the building and had a brief chat before continuing into their

homes. I could hear people in their flats talking or watching television. The interior lights of the flat helped to light the pathways. I could see their laundry hung from the windows and balconies.

One man wandered through the site while drinking a bottle of alcohol, I questioned my safety, but all turned out fine. He walked over to the graffiti wall and looked at it for about 10 minutes. I gathered that whilst the graffiti was unplanned and categorized as antisocial behavior, it did add a unique and creative character to the space.

Compared to the previous site visits the activity on the site was very low. The trees still

rustled in the wind but, there was not much energy from people or animals.

Exiting the site I saw 1 group of teens (age 16) sitting in the open space for the shopping

center. They were eating takeaway food, one of them disposed of the plastic container in the trash,, there are no recycling bins.

By the time I left the site it was dark so, I took the bus home to ensure my safety. The bus

too had hardly anyone on it. Like the rest of the city, it was then my time to return home for the night.

These narratives act as an analytical tool to assess the relationships between observed behaviors at the time of each visit. Solà-Morales himself described cities as narratives, he believed they were defined by their themes (Solà-Morales et al., 2008). The fieldnote narratives have the potential to be reviewed by the fieldworker and peers to draw significant themes from observations.

DRAWING Sketched vignettes of the site and the observed interactions enable the fieldworker to evaluate more closely and remember significant occurrences.

Spatial arrangements

Couples walk together

Active transportation, cycling and scooters

Walking dogs

Families with children

Neighborly chat

School kids and young teens

People carry bags of groceries

Figure 8.17 – Sketch Drawing Site Vignettes. Source: Madison Sacramone

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CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

PHOTOGRAPHS

9:00 AM

12:00 PM

4:00 PM

9:00 PM

PANORAMIC VIEW

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

PEOPLE

walking dogs | cycling | walking individually | walking with family | mixed age groups

NATURE

pigeons on building | birds eating trash | mature trees | fenced green space | squirrels

ADJACENT STRUCTURE QUALITY

poorly maintained | new build style | ongoing construction | dim lighting at night

EVIDENCE OF CITIZEN PARTICIPATION

community lead garden | creative intervention

HERITAGE

Statue to Queen Victoria |Trinity House of Leith | South Leith Parish

MATERIALITY & CONDITIONS

poorly maintained | mixed material | overflowing trash | litter Figure 8.18 – Site Photographs. Source: Madison Sacramone

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CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

VIDEO & AUDIO

Video and audio recordings were taken at each site visit. Please us the link or scan the QR code to view this source of data. The sound recordings have been isolated from the videos for the listener/viewer to experience the senses individually because they represent separate qualities and impressions. What might sound calming and tranquil may visually appear otherwise.

Figure 8.19 – Video and Audio Recording, https://youtu.be/jxhE5MnDdig . Source: Madison Sacramone

3

ANALYSIS

The analysis section of the Research portfolio aims to answer the fieldworker’s unanswered questions with either further research or analysis of the collected data.

POST FIELDWORK

FIELDWORK OBSERVATION: Many people walk regardless of having to carry groceries or having a physical disability.

RESPONSE: How many people actually own a car? How many people have a disability?

HOUSEHOLDS WITH NO CAR

HOUSEHOLDS WITH ONE CAR

Figure 8.20 – Comparison Household Demographics with and without cars. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

The majority of households within and around the site do not own a car but, those who do only aprox. 17% own one vehicle. This validates the conclusion that walkability in this area is essential for local residents health, wellbeing and quality of life.

HEALTH IMPACTS ACTIVITY A LITTLE

HEALTH IMPACTS ACTIVITY A LOT

Figure 8.21 – Comparison Household Demographics Health Impact. Source: Digimaps Online Database, Society Roam, March, 2011.

During the fieldwork study I noticed several people with a physical disability based on the observation of a walking cane, wheelchair, other required assistance or obvious struggle. Approx. 13% - 15% of residents adjacent to the site experience health issues that impact their activity “a little,” and about 10% are impacted “a lot.” It is evident that there is a significant amount of people that activities are limited by a long-term health problem or disability.

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FIELDWORK OBSERVATION: People who walked usually turned onto Giles St. or continued walking straight through Linksview House.

RESPONSE: What are the major circulations I observed within the site? Do circulations differ from pedestrians to cyclists?

OBSERVED SITE CIRCULATIONS

The majority of households within and around the site do not own a car but, those who do only aprox. 17% own one vehicle. This validates the conclusion that walkability in this area is essential for local residents health, wellbeing and quality of life.

LIN KS HOU VIEW SE

S TA

IR S

SIT CON E UND E STR UCT R ION

Pedestrian & Cycle Access Only

Secondary Observed Pedestrian Circulations

ELD

L N.

GIL

ES

S T.

Primary Observed Pedestrian Circulations

AT F I

Primary Observed Cyclist Circulations

N

SO UT H LE IT H PA RI SH

Figure 8.22 – Analytical map of site circulations. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

NE

WK SH IRKG OP AT CE PING E NT ER

TRI N HOU ITY SE

CO

Secondary Observed Cyclist Circulations

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CHAPTER 8: APPENDICES

FIELDWORK OBSERVATION: Most people gather in the Newkirkgate shopping center or near the kirkyard.

RESPONSE: Where are the most and least active spots on the site?

ACTIVE ENERGIES

The entire site lacks lively energy between Linksview house and the South Leith Parish. There is a construction site with an unknown purpose, and there is a large platform before the Linksview house with no prevalent use.

LIN KS HOU VIEW SE

S T.

SIT CON E UND E STR UCT R ION

L N.

GIL

ES

Inactive areas, did not see anyone stop or congrigate here

N

SO UT H LE IT H PA RI SH

Figure 8.23 – Analytical map of site activity. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

NE

WK SH IRKG OP AT CE PING E NT ER

TRI N HOU ITY SE

CO

AT F I

ELD

Most active areas, observed people talking in small groups or stopping for a short period

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URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

FIELDWORK OBSERVATION: Many people walked through the site empty handed and returned to the site within 30 minutes with groceries and other shopping bags.

RESPONSE: What are some of the closest amenities?

EXISTING LOCAL AMENITIES & SERVICES

Noting the amenities near the site helps to understand the walkability and quality of life for local residents.

N

ps

o Sh

& erykets c o r Gr Ma

& bs ls Pu ktai c Co

fes

Ca

nts

Re

s

ra tau

Ed

n

tio

a uc

t of rks en es hip m Pa c n i s a c l r i a t P Wo bl ter Pu En

Figure 8.24 – Analytical map of nearby amenities and services. Source: Adapted from Digimap Online Database, Aerial Roam.

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l

ica

d Me

“It is the composition of urban skins that indicates to us their characteristics and their differences, their weight, form... But we have to look at them insistently and with sufficient attention for them to reveal to us... their caverns.”

Manuel de Solà-Morales (A Matter of Things)

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE: A FUTURE-PROOF FRAMEWORK FOR CITIES

MADISON TAYLOR SACRAMONE

Master of Science (Advanced Sustainable Design) Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture The University of Edinburgh Dissertation 2021

www.maditaylordesigns.com

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