Grounded architectural practice: exploring spatial capacity building in informal settlement upgrading

Abstract

Architectural professionals have the potential to contribute to informal settlement upgrading. However, this potential is negated by the extremely limited realm of professional architectural discourse. Drawing on the work of Lefebvre, grounded architectural practice (GAP) will be developed as a conceptual framework to explore spatial capacity building in the context of in situ informal settlement upgrading projects. By participating in live projects in informal settlements, the authors will explore the highly improvising and generative everyday practices of the urban majority. Architectural practice in such a context requires a multi-disciplinary approach which extends beyond conventional professional boundaries, and attention must be paid to building the spatial capacity of all participants to function in such uncharted territory.