Upgrading public space in Cape Town: reflections on Southern strategies for transformative practice

Abstract

This paper explores design as a situated, socially responsive and transformative practice. It positions design within Southern theory, questions spatial injustice and the gaps in practice, and discusses how to enable an iterative, engaged, relational process in upgrading projects. Through practice-oriented reflections, the author, a spatial practitioner, educator and researcher, describes a participatory, action-based research approach in the case of iThemba Walkway in Cape Town, and the challenges of transforming public space. Findings uncover ‘scales of practice’ to support the creation of Southern terms towards a just city. A discussion argues for a shift beyond the recognition of participation, to the intentional co-design of safe and courageous spaces to enable strategies of action, including (1) empowering conversations (process); (2) facilitating disruptions (power); (3) enabling (re)construction (space); and (4) shaping collaborations (agency). Concluding remarks focus on integrating scales, practical steps and actions towards principles of care, acknowledging the limitations of knowledge co-production.