Design and Construction Processes for Civic Reappropriation of Urban Voids. The Machi Hata Project in Nagano (Japan)

Abstract

This article presents an active service-learning methodology as a pedagogical approach in architecture schools, centered on the community-led appropriation of public space. This methodology was implemented through the Machi Hata Project, which aimed to revitalize three abandoned areas near Zenkoji Temple in Nagano-Sukeroku Garden, La Rencontre Backyard, and A Goat Garden—by transforming them into 'civic gardens.' The study documents the sequential processes of analysis, design, and community-led construction of the community gardens, highlighting their potential both as educational tools and as catalysts for urban regeneration.