In the heart of Europe, a quiet revolution is taking place, one that could reshape how cities grow and communities engage with their surroundings. This revolution is not one of steel and concrete, but of temporary structures, community participation, and adaptive reuse. It’s called “meanwhile urbanism,” and it’s the focus of a compelling study led by Ruth De León Rodríguez from the Universitat Politècnica de València, published in the *Vitruvio: International Journal of Architectural Technology and Sustainability* (which translates to *Vitruvius: International Journal of Architectural Technology and Sustainability*).
Meanwhile urbanism is a concept that seeks to activate vacant land during transitional periods, providing temporary uses and activities until planned future developments take place. It’s a way of keeping spaces alive and engaging communities while waiting for long-term projects to come to fruition. De León Rodríguez’s study analyses eight European case studies, identifying four main typologies of meanwhile urbanism: community-led participatory uses on small plots, temporary recreational spaces with environmental and educational value, modular infrastructures addressing equipment or service deficits, and large-scale developments incorporating temporary uses to maintain social engagement.
The results are promising. “Community participation, flexible design, and local appropriation are critical to strengthening social fabric and place identity,” De León Rodríguez explains. These interventions, varying greatly in duration, demonstrate that interim uses can adapt without obstructing final projects. This approach could be particularly useful in regions like the Valencian Community, where extensive undeveloped lands exist.
The commercial impacts for the energy sector are also noteworthy. Meanwhile urbanism can create opportunities for testing and demonstrating innovative energy solutions in real-world settings. Temporary structures can be equipped with renewable energy systems, smart grids, and energy-efficient technologies, providing valuable data and insights for future developments.
Moreover, this approach can foster community engagement in energy projects, promoting energy awareness and encouraging sustainable behaviors. It’s a chance for energy companies to connect with communities, understand their needs, and co-create solutions that work for everyone.
As cities continue to evolve, meanwhile urbanism offers a dynamic complement to formal urban planning. It’s a way to keep spaces alive, engage communities, and test innovative solutions. It’s not just about filling the gap; it’s about making the most of the in-between. And in doing so, it’s reshaping the way we think about urban development, one temporary structure at a time.
De León Rodríguez’s research provides a valuable framework for understanding and implementing meanwhile urbanism, offering insights that could shape future developments in the field. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most innovative solutions come not from grand designs, but from the adaptive reuse of what’s already there.