I’m going to conduct a little self experiment in this post. Before today I had never come across the idea of Tactical Urbanism, and without any research yet (not even a google search), I’m confidently still in the dark on this one. This entry will be split into two parts; my interpretation/assumption of the concept, based solely off its title, and secondly, my understanding and thoughts after some research.

Tactical – that’s straightforward enough. It involves careful consideration, being clever about the product, perhaps to create additional benefits other than its direct purpose. It’s pre-meditated, with the environment, scenario, and resources scrutinised to effect a particular decision. I’ll use a sporting analogy: throughout my sporting career in soccer and Aussie Rules, as teams we have followed particular movement, running or man-marking tactics, which were considered the best methods to win. However often tactics had to be adjusted based on opponents, showcasing how the notion of tactical is versatile and must be altered and applied to the situation faced in order fulfil the aim. It often incorporates creativity and certainly requires thought.  

Urbanism – This one I’m a little less sure of. I guess I see urbanism as a very modern movement, within developed cities and communities. Is it to add style, atmosphere, or modern materials to pre-existing landscapes, restaurants, buildings, etc. I see and hear about ‘urban’ cafes or restaurants, which in my view have adapted to a more chic, hipster and modern needs – making it ‘trendy’.

So now I ask myself what makes Urbanism tactical? Modernising something, a place or an object, with creativity & thought, to enhance its benefits and appeal. Now… let’s find out if I was close.

According to tacticalurbanismguide.com, “Tactical Urbanism is an approach to neighbourhood building and activation that uses short-term, low-cost, and scalable interventions and policies.” It’s short-term action for long-term change. The CoDesign Studio, for example, has a focus on ‘Collaborative Citymaking’, to quickly transform any neighbourhood into an inclusive place where people love to live. From the research I conducted, the following definition made the most sense to me.

It is about getting it right for now and at the same time being tactical and strategic about later… And about disturbing the order of things in the interests of change.” – Nabeel Hamdi.

To wrap it up, I was definitely in the ballpark, however didn’t realise there was a large focus on ‘not disturbing’ too much. There’s projects all over the country (and worldwide), making public areas safer, prettier and more useful for all.

That’s it for now.