The Effect of Privatization and Commodification into the Functions of Pedestrian Public Space: Case Study of the Central Plaza at ‘Manufaktura’ Shopping Centre in Lodz (Poland)

Abstract

In XX century the new model of social relation based mainly on consumption was introduced. This change in social life inflict also the urban space – the City become a field of investment game. Even the pedestrian open space become the commodity, which been used for investing and accumulating of capital. This change leads to creation of the new type of pedestrian city spaces, called by some authors hybrid spaces. These urban spaces have become a place for meetings and strolls for the new generation of urban flaneur. It can be observed that the consequence of the commodification of public spaces is the creation of the specific amusement parks for adults. Access to such hybrid city areas is restricted, and activities are limited by private owners. Some authors claims that commodification and privatization of urban space is a threat to the functioning of the public space by limiting the activity of users, especially some important social functions - from unstimulated and uncontrolled meetings with the “other” and “foreign”, up to public gatherings, social protests and conflicts. Limitations and access reduced to selected social groups are the essential origin of conflicts and tensions, as exemplified by the 2011 events at Zuccotti Park. The article analyze the privatized pedestrian space the “Manufaktura” shopping center in Lodz (Central Poland). It is one of the largest private city plaza in Europe. This text should allow to better understanding of the functions of the hybrid spaces in the contemporary city. Author focused on evaluation from the users’ point of view, as well as in a broader social and urban context and buildings (this includes: the large shopping gallery, amusement park, hotel, cinema, theatre, two museums, numerous clubs, cafes and restaurants) located around the privately owned plaza. According to some sources it is the largest private city plaza in Europe. The purpose of this text is to allow a better understanding of the specificity of the hybrid space in the city (its functions, advantages and disadvantages evaluated from the users’ point of view, as well as in a broader social and urban context). It also should contribute to the search for a proper balance between private and public open spaces in the city.