Democracy on the Margin: Architectural Means of Appropriation in Governmental Alteration of Space

Abstract

A recurrent dilemma of democracy—how to accommodate the marginal—is addressed here in relation to the possibility for citizens to contribute to changes in urban space. This study investigates the preparatory phase of the architectural renewal of a square, looking at both the general issue of equal rights to space and the more particular question of participation in planning processes. Although official procedures for the inclusion of opinions and rights are in place, marginalisation is seen to ensue from the planning authorities' response to the opinions of the community and individuals concerned. The study presents a theoretical basis for suggesting how an extended categorisation of the delegation of agency in planning policy—possibly also embracing a modification of the architect's role—could influence the borderline between what is regarded as marginal and what is not.