The regeneration of Mouraria. An innovative systemic, strategic and participatory approach to the co-working of urban space

Abstract

Between 2011 and 2014, a process of urban and social regeneration took place in the historic neighborhood of Mouraria in Lisbon. This initiative embraced an interdisciplinary, systemic, participatory, and experimental approach. The regenerative process was guided by strategic choices, such as the centrality of public space, the integration of physical and social dimensions, and the involvement of local communities. Through a widespread, bottom-up, and place-based action, developed upon a few clear and simple strategic lines, extensive results were achieved. This approach overturned the intervention paradigm on existing structures, combining municipal and local interests and including residents in the co-elaboration of the urban and social space. This article aims to provide an overview by examining population engagement strategies, the key actors through which various forms of participation were activated, the new roles adopted by planning and architecture, and the possibilities for preserving sociocultural heritage in urban regeneration.

Keywords: Urban regeneration, innovative approach, public space, participation.