The interiors of reconstructed extensive blocks of the historic Main Town in Gdańsk are nowadays degraded areas, full of cars, with “holes” after never-finished archaeological excavations. It is not surprising that inhabitants avoid them. These are NON-PLACES. This situation prompts social movements to act. The first step towards the change was the interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary project of revitalization of one of the backyards. The main issue was to find a way of its development accepted by users, economically justified and based on the cultural heritage of this unique city. This was noticed by the dwellers, the media and the local government as well. The second step – the implementation of the project – is in progress. Based on this example, the question could be asked how to improve public participation in development process to make it more inclusive and effective. The aim of the paper is to assess if Design Thinking methodology could help to strengthen dialogue in urban space. The project of development of the backyard in the Main Town in Gdańsk can be an example that it might be the relevant method of solving problems in cities in the participatory way.
The article describes mass events and programs of spatial transformation in the selected European costal metropolises in statu nascendi, as well as the impact of these activities on the development potentials of the metropolises. Coastal metropolitan areas, due to their unique conditions, are particularly predisposed to the organization of the sporting and cultural events related to the marine identity. As the analyses carried out in the article show, these cities also host other events, such as Football European Championships and the World Cups, and are often given the status of the European Capital of Culture. These events, although they are not determined by the coastal location, often use the attributes related to it. With the organization of sporting and cultural events, different types of spatial regeneration programs are often associated. They have impact on the residents’ life quality, but also indirectly increase the development potential of the metropolis. In the case of coastal metropolises, these programs usually include areas with specific marine functions as the old shipyard areas or port districts. Material cultural heritage associated with marine identity, particularly postindustrial legacy, and the genius loci of these areas, is the important determinant for the further development of the metropolis.
JavaScript jest wyłączony w Twojej przeglądarce internetowej. Włącz go, a następnie odśwież stronę, aby móc w pełni z niej korzystać.