Vacant or underutilised spaces are often seen as a problem to be solved through letting, selling, repurposing or demolition. But for whom is a space truly vacant? Whose needs, memories, values and future possibilities remain invisible when space is viewed primarily through the lens of economic efficiency or development potential?
Beyond Vacant Spaces seminar series, organised by the TURNS Urban Research Network for Sustainability at Tampere University, looks at vacant and underused spaces in both urban and rural contexts from a variety of perspectives. The series explores, among other themes, how vacancy is produced, how it is defined, and on what grounds the abandonment, transformation or replacement of spaces is justified in planning, property markets and decision-making. At the same time, it considers alternative ways of understanding the value of vacant spaces as cultural, social, ecological and material resources, as well as sites of local identity and continuity.
The seminar series is developed in collaboration with communities, networks and other actors engaged with vacant and underused spaces. Bringing together researchers, representatives of cities and municipalities, civic initiatives, property sector professionals, cultural practitioners and others interested in the topic, the series offers an opportunity to examine underutilised spaces from diverse perspectives and to reflect on the more sustainable, equitable and diverse futures they may hold.
The seminars can be in English and/or Finnish. Registration is required for each seminar separately via this website.