IN-PERSON London. Section A

Abstract

This paper delves into the transformative power of participatory placemaking and its symbiotic relationship with urban vernacular in reinvigorating Bangkok’s Flower Market. Anchored in theoretical frameworks by urban visionaries such as Jan Gehl and Jane Jacobs, along with insights from David Sim’s “Soft City: Building Density for Everyday Life” and the principles of placemaking advocated by the Project for Public Spaces (PPS), the study investigates the dynamics of creating a truly livable city. Against the backdrop of Gehl’s emphasis on human-scale urban environments and Jacobs’ advocacy for vibrant street life, this research examines a project initiated in February 2023 to breathe new life into the Flower Market. The 60-centimeter facade restriction, a limiting factor in urban design, is reinterpreted through the lens of Gehl’s call for street-level engagement. The festival, inspired by Sim’s ideas of building density for everyday life, drew over 30,000 visitors, with more than half belonging to the 18-24 age group, fostering a dynamic shift in the market’s social and economic landscape. Additionally, the success of the intervention resonates with the principles of placemaking, as outlined by PPS. The subsequent social media viral trend not only transformed the aesthetic appeal of the market but also empowered local vendors to adapt their practices, aligning with Sim’s vision of adaptive urbanism. This case study showcases the potential of participatory placemaking, informed by these influential urban thinkers, to not only renew urban spaces but also foster economic vitality and community engagement, echoing the principles of a truly livable city.