doi: 10.56294/la202351
ORIGINAL
Ephemeral architecture as a solution in the evolution of public spaces
La arquitectura efímera como solución en la evolución de los espacios públicos
Juan Alberto Almirón Cuentas1 
*,
David Hugo Bernedo-Moreira1 
*
1Universidad Peruana Unión. Perú.
Cite as: Almirón Cuentas JA, Bernedo-Moreira DH. Ephemeral Architecture as a Solution in the Evolution of Public Spaces. Land and Architecture. 2023; 2:51. https://doi.org/10.56294/la202351
Submitted: 08-09-2022 Revised: 26-01-2023 Accepted: 11-05-2023 Published: 12-05-2023
Editor: Emanuel
Maldonado
Corresponding Author: Juan Alberto Almirón Cuentas *
ABSTRACT
Introduction: the article aims to describe the empirical and conceptual production on the lack of ephemeral architecture in public spaces, as well as to provide a vision on the subject that will serve as a tool for future research.
Method: an exhaustive narrative review of the available scientific literature was carried out using databases such as Scopus, Scielo and Google Scholar. The search covered articles published between 2020 and 2023, excluding certain types of publications such as interviews and letters to the editor. Twenty articles were initially identified, from which 12 relevant articles were selected for the review.
Results: the results indicate a diversity of studies on ephemeral architecture, highlighting both the geographical context (including countries such as Italy, Colombia, Brazil, Peru and Mexico) and the varied methodological approaches. The characteristics of the studies show an interest in exploring the relationship between users and ephemeral structures, and how these can enhance public spaces and foster social interaction.
Conclusions: the review highlights the importance of ephemeral architecture as a powerful tool to revitalize and transform public spaces. Its ability to promote social interaction, collective creativity and greater cultural identity in communities was highlighted. However, the study also highlights the lack of ephemeral architecture initiatives in many contexts and their implications for the quality of urban life. Future research is suggested to delve deeper into user perceptions and design strategies to maximize the impact of these interventions.
Keywords: Architecture; Ephemeral Architecture; Public Spaces; Evolution of Public Spaces.
RESUMEN
Introducción: el artículo tiene como objetivo describir la producción empírica y conceptual sobre la carencia de arquitectura efímera en espacios públicos, así como proporcionar una visión sobre el tema que sirva como herramienta para futuras investigaciones.
Método: se llevó a cabo una revisión narrativa exhaustiva de la literatura científica disponible utilizando bases de datos como Scopus, Scielo y Google Académico. La búsqueda abarcó artículos publicados entre 2020 y 2023, excluyendo ciertos tipos de publicaciones como entrevistas y cartas al editor. Se identificaron inicialmente 20 artículos, de los cuales se seleccionaron 12 relevantes para la revisión.
Resultados: los resultados indican una diversidad de estudios acerca de la arquitectura efímera, destacando tanto el contexto geográfico (incluyendo países como Italia, Colombia, Brasil, Perú y México) como los enfoques metodológicos variados. Las características de los estudios muestran un interés en explorar la relación entre usuarios y estructuras efímeras, y en cómo estas pueden mejorar los espacios públicos y fomentar la interacción social.
Conclusiones: la revisión resalta la importancia de la arquitectura efímera como una herramienta poderosa para revitalizar y transformar espacios públicos. Se destacó su capacidad para promover interacción social, creatividad colectiva y una mayor identidad cultural en las comunidades. Sin embargo, el estudio también subraya la carencia de iniciativas de arquitectura efímera en muchos contextos y sus implicaciones en la calidad de vida urbana. Se sugieren futuras investigaciones que profundicen en las percepciones de los usuarios y las estrategias de diseño para maximizar el impacto de estas intervenciones.
Palabras clave: Arquitectura; Arquitectura Efímera; Espacios Públicos; Evolución de los Espacios Públicos.
INTRODUCTION
According to the Royal Spanish Academy, the term “ephemeral” describes something that has a short or fleeting duration. In this context, architecture refers to designs created to exist for a specific period without becoming permanent or preservable.(1) For Mosetti(2) they are understood as a process of installation, presentation, and removal, and for García(3), they are understood as the manifestation of material mutability towards the immaterial. However, Muñoz et al.(4) argue that temporary architecture expands into the architecture of permanent buildings over time. This type of architecture has a playful purpose that can be easily implemented in public spaces, considerably impacting social participation. From an aesthetic perspective, its main objective is to cause impact and provoke emotions, creating meaningful experiences for those interacting.(1) This concept is complemented by the notion of ephemeral architecture as a type of space that is temporary, flexible, and organic, requiring few financial and human resources and promoting actions that start from the bottom up but also recognizing its ability to improve both the quality of the urban environment and the environment itself.(5) Likewise, this type of architecture is used to highlight the possibilities of public space as a heterotopic place, that is, as an adaptable extension of current space that can take on new functions and forms(6) in addition to revitalizing and expanding the use of public spaces, given that high urban density demands greater diversification of these places.(7)
Globally, ephemeral architecture can be classified in various ways: tectonic, which emphasizes architectural solutions highlighting the importance of structure; journey, aimed at involving the viewer in a dynamic experience; analogy, which establishes similarities through comparisons; object, where transformed objects become art installations; and dialogue, which seeks to establish a deep connection between the sender and the receiver.(8) However, despite growing interest in this field, opportunities to implement ephemeral installations in public environments remain scarce.
At the national level, ephemeral architecture was present during the COVID-19 pandemic, with these structures often serving as simple constructions with an easy assembly and disassembly system in line with their initial purpose. For this reason, their importance as architectural elements lies in the benefit they provide to a community in a specific risk environment.(9) Likewise, temporary architecture, in addition to being present in commercial and cultural activities, began to occupy public spaces due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend involved adapting these spaces for commercial and cultural activities, which contributed to their development and the appropriation of public space through temporary, versatile, and modular architectural interventions.(7) Consequently, for Montejan et al.(10), ephemeral architecture emerges as an innovative and essential solution to emergencies, converting public areas into temporary shelters that demonstrate the resilience and flexibility of a community in constant change. On the other hand, Gómez(11) suggests using ephemeral architecture through modules to promote interest in reading among young people. This is used temporarily, adapting to educational centers that lack libraries and providing a temporary recreational space to access reading comfortably and safely.
Therefore, this review aims to describe the empirical and conceptual production on the Lack of Ephemeral Architecture in Public Spaces based on empirical references and academic documents, thus providing an overview of the topic and a tool for future research. Research that illustrates the possibilities of integrating ephemeral architecture more broadly into the urban fabric will be sought to promote more dynamic, inclusive, vibrant, and cultural urban environments since the urban environment serves as a basis for initiatives to address social conflicts and disparities. Its purpose is not to develop a unified culture among diverse urban cultures but to act as a relational medium that facilitates communication between them.(12) This review will promote the importance of understanding the interactions between the user and the ephemeral structure, from aesthetics to functionality, to maximize its impact on public space.
METHOD
A comprehensive narrative review was conducted to analyze the available scientific literature using the Scopus, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The search was conducted from 2023 to 2023, considering articles published between 2020 and 2023. Texts in any language were included, excluding case reports, interviews, letters to the editor, and books. Initially, 20 articles were identified in the aforementioned databases, of which seven were from Scopus, five from Scielo, and eight from Google Scholar. After eliminating duplicates and irrelevant articles, a final corpus of 12 articles relevant to the review was obtained.
RESULTS
|
Table 1. Procedure for finding, selecting, and incorporating articles into the research |
|
|
Free language |
Term |
|
Ephemeral architecture |
architecture |
|
Temporary architecture |
ephemeral |
|
Ephemeral constructions |
sensory |
|
Temporary urban art |
sustainability |
|
Table 2. Characteristics of the included studies |
|
|
Year of publication2020 |
Number of studies |
|
2021 2022 2023 |
7 1 1 3 |
|
Design Theoretical-critical Multidisciplinary Phenomenological Literature review Exploratory Analytical Action research Case study Descriptive |
1 2 1 1 2 1 2 1 1 |
|
Place of study Italy Colombia Brazil Peru Mexico General |
2 1 1 3 1 4 |
|
Study population (N)>100 000 |
12 |
|
Table 3. Compilation of studies |
||
|
Author |
Key findings |
|
|
Di Lauro(12) |
Explore and evaluate how public space has evolved in response to current social, technological, and cultural changes. |
The importance of ephemeral and temporary architecture in addressing new approaches to design, recognizing the need for an interdisciplinary approach to understanding public space. |
|
García Ramírez(3) |
Analyze the phenomenon of ephemeral architecture in Colombia, focusing on how the ephemeral derives from the durability conditions of the works as a result of quality factors and/or neglect. |
It challenges the conventional notion of ephemeral architecture and shows how the acceleration of processes can contribute to the ephemeral nature of works in Colombia. |
|
Gómez(11) |
Analyze whether the design of ephemeral architecture modules encourages reading habits among young people aged 15 to 17 in the district of Carabayllo in 2022. |
The feasibility of a design project for ephemeral architecture modules in Peru with the aim of promoting reading habits and addressing the lack of support. |
|
Gonçalves(5) |
Analyze the ephemeral situations and characteristics adopted in the appropriation of public space in the suburbs of the city of Rio de Janeiro. |
Proposes ephemeral architecture as a flexible solution to improve environmental and urban quality in areas with limited resources in Rio de Janeiro. |
|
González(8) |
Examine a variety of ephemeral architectural works designed for cultural events, with the aim of conceptualizing and classifying them according to their main concepts. |
Classify ephemeral architecture into five sets of eight works each, organized by design principles and guidelines to highlight the value of ephemeral architecture as a generator of innovative ideas and promoter of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). |
|
Jaen(9) |
Analyze the importance of emergency ephemeral architecture in Lima, focusing on its role during health crises. |
Highlight the historical relevance of emergency ephemeral architecture in Lima during the 19th and 20th centuries, emphasizing its ability to offer quick solutions to problems such as the shortage of medical services and housing. |
|
Montejano et al.(10) |
Formulate strategies for the management of public space in Mexico City in the event of natural disasters, focusing on ephemeral habitability. |
Analysis of habitability linked to public space during disaster situations, highlighting the need to prevent the privatization of such space in Mexico. |
|
Mosetti(2) |
Recover the meaning of the city as a theater of collective memory; the aim is for ephemeral architecture to narrate significant events that belong to the designer, the city, and the lagoon, citing Venice as an example. |
Emphasize the need to revive the shared memory of cities, such as Venice, through public exhibitions. |
|
Muñoz(4) |
Expand the concept of the ephemeral in architecture, moving from the idea of temporary construction to a long-lasting architecture whose form is visually evanescent. |
Consider ephemeral architecture as more than a temporary condition linked to technical and construction aspects; extend it to permanent architecture, where architectural form can express characteristics associated with the ephemeral, such as transience and change. |
|
Villanueva(1) |
Focus on exploring and analyzing the importance, uses, and applications of ephemeral architecture in public spaces, highlighting its relevance in contemporary society, its capacity to transform public spaces, and its role in promoting culture and urban creativity. |
Ephemeral architecture has evolved to adapt to social and commercial changes, expanding its uses in public space and highlighting its use in revitalizing forgotten areas. |
|
Zorzetto et al.(6) |
Propose a strategy for applying Settis' “poetics of reuse,” highlighting the relationship between ephemeral architecture and historical heritage. |
Propose a taxonomy that highlights the reuse of historical heritage through ephemeral architecture and emphasizes its importance in the sustainable development of Venice. |
|
Cordova(7) |
Analyze and propose ephemeral and versatile architectural solutions for adapting public spaces to commercial and cultural activities, especially in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. |
Present a proposal for adaptable ephemeral architecture for economic and cultural revitalization in Peru. |
Main findings
González(8) classifies ephemeral architecture into five groups, each categorized by design principles and guidelines, and highlights its value as a generator of innovative ideas and promoter of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The classification of ephemeral architecture provides a structured and detailed perspective on this form of architecture. By dividing ephemeral architecture into five distinct groups, each characterized by specific design principles and guidelines, a practical framework is provided for understanding and analyzing the various manifestations of this discipline. This classification helps to organize and categorize ephemeral projects and highlights the diversity and richness of approaches within this field. Furthermore, the affirmation of the value of temporary architecture as a generator of innovative ideas and promoter of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscores the importance of this discipline in the current context. Ephemeral architecture offers temporary and flexible solutions to urban and social challenges and can serve as a platform for experimentation and innovation in architectural design. By addressing issues such as sustainability, social inclusion, and urban resilience, ephemeral architecture can contribute significantly to achieving the SDGs established by the United Nations, promoting more equitable and sustainable urban development.(8)
A notable example of this is "Sombra proyectada" (Projected Shadow), a vibrant structure in the city of Logroño that beautifies a square by adding color and shade and providing a space for social interaction. This intervention promotes social inclusion by reflecting the neighborhood's cultural diversity and highlights the value of ephemeral architecture in improving public spaces with minimal impact. Similarly, installations such as "Ready, Steady, Go!" serve as a wake-up call to latent urban problems, such as the need for better urban planning and the importance of pedestrians in an environment dominated by motor vehicles.(8)
On the other hand, Muñoz et al.(4) emphasize that ephemeral architecture is considered more than a temporary condition linked to technical and constructive aspects; it extends to permanent architecture, where architectural form can express characteristics associated with the ephemeral, such as transience and change.
The contemporary conception of ephemeral architecture transcends its traditional definition as a mere temporary condition related to technical and constructive aspects. It is recognized that this notion extends beyond transitory structures also to include permanent architecture, where architectural form can communicate qualities associated with the ephemeral; factors such as transience and change can be expressed through permanent designs that evoke a sense of movement and transformation, thus challenging conventional perceptions of stability and durability in architecture. This reinterpretation of ephemeral architecture underscores the dynamic and adaptable nature of the built environment, where structures not only serve as static elements but can also evoke transience and change. By considering permanent architecture as a form of expression of the ephemeral, a new field of creative exploration opens up for designers and architects seeking to convey sensations of movement and transformation in their work. This perspective challenges conventional notions of architecture as static and eternal, inviting deeper reflection on the nature of built space and its relationship to time and human experience. Furthermore, this expanded approach has significant implications in various fields, from urban design to landscape planning. By recognizing that even permanent structures can incorporate ephemeral elements into their design, it becomes possible to create spaces that respond more dynamically to the changing needs of society and the environment.(4)
Furthermore, analyses indicate that ephemeral architecture has the potential to introduce new perspectives into urban design. This implies that citizens can influence their environment through direct actions in public spaces, promoting values and revitalizing these places as renewed spaces for social interaction and collective creativity through urban events.(12)
Ephemeral architecture is emerging as a dynamic tool in contemporary urban design. In a world where cities face constant challenges of development, densification, and change, the flexibility and adaptability of temporary architecture offer an innovative response to these demands. Being temporary by nature, this form of architecture allows for experimentation with new ideas, forms, and functions without the long-term commitments associated with permanent constructions. The role of citizens in this process is fundamental. As communities become more aware of their environment and seek ways to actively participate in decision-making about the design and planning of their cities, ephemeral architecture becomes a powerful means of expressing their aspirations and needs. Citizens can use these temporary structures to organize events, activities, and meetings that promote social cohesion and cultural expression, thus transforming public spaces into vibrant interaction and creativity.(12)
The revitalization of public spaces through ephemeral architecture can also have a positive economic impact on local communities. These temporary interventions can stimulate commercial activity and local development by attracting visitors and residents to previously underutilized areas. Furthermore, by highlighting a place's unique identity and character, temporary architecture can strengthen a sense of belonging and civic pride among city dwellers.(12)
On the other hand, Montejano and Moreno(10) focus on temporary habitability linked to public space during disaster situations in Mexico City.
In an environment prone to earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters, the ability to adapt and respond quickly becomes crucial to mitigating negative impacts and ensuring the population's safety. In Mexico City, public space plays a fundamental role as a place of refuge, gathering, and coordination during emergencies. However, its proper functioning and accessibility can be compromised due to a lack of planning and disaster preparedness. It is important to address this vulnerability by focusing on strategies that promote temporary habitability and adapting public spaces for emergencies.(10)
The study examines how the design and management of public space can influence a city's ability to respond effectively to disasters, including considerations such as the provision of temporary shelters, the distribution of basic supplies, accessibility for people with reduced mobility, and the implementation of early warning and evacuation systems. In addition, the study highlights the importance of active community participation in emergency planning and preparedness, recognizing its crucial role in creating safe and resilient environments.(10)
Consequently, an alternative perspective on the ephemeral architecture in Colombia is explored, challenging conventional notions and showing how the acceleration of processes can contribute to the ephemeral condition of works.(3)
Traditionally, architecture has been associated with permanence and durability, reflecting the stability and legacy of structures over time. However, this new view challenges these entrenched notions, proposing reassessing the concepts of temporality and permanence in design and construction. In an environment where innovation and adaptability are increasingly valued, this alternative perspective responds to the contemporary challenges facing architecture in Colombia. Rapid urbanization, social and economic changes, and changing user demands require flexible and agile solutions that can adapt and evolve. By showing how the acceleration of processes can contribute to the ephemeral nature of works, the door is opened to new design and construction possibilities that respond more effectively to the needs and demands of today's Colombian society.(3)
On the other hand, Gonçalves(5) proposes ephemeral architecture as a flexible solution to improve environmental and urban quality in areas with limited resources in the peripheral neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro.
These peripheral areas of Rio de Janeiro often lack basic infrastructure, such as drinking water, adequate sanitation, and adequate public spaces for recreation and social interaction. In addition, the lack of urban planning and the city's rapid expansion have contributed to the proliferation of informal settlements and environmental degradation in these areas. Therefore, ephemeral architecture is proposed as a flexible solution that responds to the need for innovative and adaptive strategies to improve living conditions in peripheral neighborhoods. Temporary architecture is presented as a viable alternative due to its ability to offer quick and economical solutions that can be implemented with relative ease in resource-constrained environments, in addition to improving environmental and urban quality. This type of architecture can also be important in revitalizing these neighborhoods by fostering a sense of community and belonging among residents. By providing temporary public spaces for cultural, recreational, and social activities, these interventions can help strengthen the social fabric and promote inclusion and citizen participation in urban life. By recognizing the potential of ephemeral architecture as a tool for improving the quality of life and promoting social inclusion, this proposal offers an innovative and hopeful vision for sustainable urban development in the city.(5)
Cordova et al.(7) present ephemeral architecture as a means of economic and cultural revitalization in a national context. This study offers a comprehensive vision for adapting public spaces to new commercial and cultural functions.
Specifically in Cusco, adaptable ephemeral architecture emerges as a key tool for economic and cultural revitalization. The ability of this architecture to rapidly transform public spaces into dynamic and multifunctional environments is fundamental in a context where flexibility and innovation are essential for adaptation to social and economic changes. This approach allows for the revitalization of declining urban areas and encourages the diversification of commercial and cultural activities, creating opportunities for local development and community participation. By providing a comprehensive overview of how ephemeral architecture can effectively respond to the changing needs of public spaces in Cusco, this study offers valuable guidance for designers, urban planners, and local authorities in their search for innovative and sustainable solutions for urban development.(7)
In contrast, temporary architecture highlights its relevance during the emergency period in Lima during the 19th and 20th centuries, emphasizing its ability to offer quick solutions to problems such as the shortage of medical services and housing.(9)
Its inherent ability to provide agile responses to critical challenges, such as the lack of medical services and housing, in a context marked by urgency and immediate need, temporary architecture has proven its effectiveness in quickly adapting to address the population's most pressing needs. Its flexibility and adaptability have been key elements in providing practical and viable solutions in times of crisis, highlighting its crucial role in protecting and ensuring the community's well-being. In addition to its practical function, ephemeral architecture in Lima during the 19th and 20th centuries reflects society's resilience and adaptability in the face of adverse situations. These periods of emergency have been crucial moments in which architectural innovation has been tested, driving the development of creative and efficient solutions to address urgent challenges. Ephemeral architecture, in its ability to quickly provide shelter and basic services, has played a significant role in mitigating the humanitarian and health crises that have affected the city of Lima throughout history. Its presence has been especially relevant in times of scarcity of resources and services, serving as an invaluable resource to ensure the safety and well-being of the population in times of need. As its historical importance and positive impact on the community are recognized, this type of architecture is emerging as a valuable tool in contemporary urban planning. Its ability to adapt quickly to the changing needs of society and provide flexible and accessible solutions makes it an essential component in the construction of resilient and sustainable cities.(9)
In addition, Gómez(11) highlights the feasibility of a project to design temporary architecture modules to encourage reading among secondary school students in Peru.
This proposal recognizes the importance of the physical environment in shaping habits and behaviors. It seeks to harness the potential of temporary architecture to create dynamic and attractive spaces that stimulate interest in reading. This initiative could significantly impact promoting literacy and access to education in communities where these needs are a priority. FocusingFocusing on secondary school students addresses a crucial demographic group in their formative years, which could have long-term positive effects on Peruvian society by fostering a culture of reading and lifelong learning. Furthermore, designing these modules with an ephemeral approach allows for greater flexibility in their use and reconfiguration according to different contexts and educational events. This would increase the project's effectiveness in terms of impact and student participation and maximize the use of available resources.(11)
From another angle, Zorzetto et al.(6) highlight ephemeral architecture in the reuse of historical heritage and emphasize its role in the sustainable development of Venice.
Temporary architecture is emerging as a prominent feature in the reuse of Venice's historical heritage, contributing significantly to the city's sustainable development. This perspective highlights the importance of integrating temporality into managing and conserving the city's historical and cultural resources. By focusing on reusing historical heritage, ephemeral architecture offers an innovative and flexible solution for adapting and revitalizing historical spaces and monuments in Venice. These temporary interventions can address specific challenges related to the conservation, restoration, and accessibility of historic sites while promoting their sustainable use and appreciation by the local community and visitors. Temporary architecture thus becomes a key tool for promoting the sustainable development of Venice by integrating principles of heritage conservation, environmental management, and community participation in the design and implementation of temporary urban projects. These interventions contribute to preserving the city's historical heritage and generating opportunities for innovation, sustainable tourism, and local economic development.(6)
In contrast, Mosetti(2) emphasizes the need to revive the shared memory of cities such as Venice through public exhibitions and investigates how ephemeral architecture can recount important events in the city and the designer's life, reintegrating memories into the urban context.
The importance of reviving the shared memory of cities through public exhibitions highlights the need to preserve and share the history and identity of places. In this sense, ephemeral architecture emerges as a powerful tool for narrating significant events in both the city and the designer's life, reintegrating memories into the urban context and fostering a deeper connection between inhabitants and their environment. This type of architecture offers the opportunity to create temporary installations that are aesthetically appealing and convey meaning and memory. These structures can commemorate historical events, celebrate local culture, or highlight the creativity and innovation of the designer, serving as visual landmarks that enrich the urban fabric and stimulate reflection and dialogue within the community. The ability of ephemeral architecture to temporarily transform the urban landscape provides an opportunity to revitalize forgotten or underutilized areas of the city, creating spaces for citizens to meet and express themselves. Ephemeral interventions can also catalyze public interest in local history and culture, generating a sense of belonging and pride among residents and strengthening the community's social fabric.(2)
Consequently, ephemeral architecture has expanded its uses in public spaces over time. It revitalizes forgotten areas, promotes cultural and recreational experiences, and encourages social interaction. It is also a versatile tool that goes beyond sophisticated design, adaptable, and creative in its application.(1)
The evolution of ephemeral architecture has been remarkable in its adaptation and expansion of uses in public space over time. Previously, it was mainly associated with temporary or commercial events, but today, its scope has broadened considerably. Ephemeral architecture is used as a dynamic tool to revitalize neglected or underutilized urban areas. In addition, temporary architecture has become a driving force for promoting cultural and recreational experiences in public spaces. From art installations to temporary stages for events and festivals, these temporary structures add a unique dimension to the urban environment, attracting residents and visitors alike and enriching the city's cultural life. Social interaction is another fundamental aspect of ephemeral architecture in public spaces. These temporary structures foster connection between people by providing meeting places and shared activities, promoting dialogue and the exchange of ideas in a vibrant and dynamic environment. Through temporary markets, rest areas, or interactive play spaces, ephemeral architecture creates opportunities for active participation and community building.(1)
Most notably, ephemeral architecture goes beyond simply being an expression of sophisticated design; it is a versatile and adaptable tool that can be creatively used to address a variety of needs and challenges in public spaces. Its ability to temporarily transform the urban environment makes it a valuable tool for urban planners and designers, allowing them to experiment with new ideas and approaches without compromising the long-term integrity of the urban landscape.(1)
CONCLUSIONS
A narrative review of “The Lack of Ephemeral Architecture in Public Spaces” could provide conceptual clarification by helping to define and clarify key concepts in ephemeral architecture. This would establish a common language between different disciplines, such as engineering and architecture, facilitating better interdisciplinary communication and understanding.
By compiling existing studies, the review sheds light on a relevant issue in the contemporary urban environment, highlighting the lack of ephemeral architecture in public spaces, as well as the implications this has for the quality of life of citizens and the development of communities. Furthermore, this review has highlighted the importance of ephemeral architecture as a versatile and powerful tool for revitalizing and transforming public spaces, promoting social interaction, collective creativity, and cultural identity. On the other hand, it highlighted how implementing ephemeral interventions can address urban challenges such as the monotony of the environment, the lack of attraction to public spaces, and social disconnection.
By exploring different approaches and solutions applied in diverse geographical and cultural contexts, the review can offer architects and designers a comprehensive view of ephemeral architecture's benefits and opportunities in improving urban life.
The review could highlight the role of ephemeral architecture in promoting the revitalization of public spaces. It can also encourage the implementation of aesthetically pleasing design practices that are urban healers.
Finally, the narrative review could contribute significantly to the understanding of the topic by highlighting the importance of ephemeral architecture in shaping more livable, inclusive, and stimulating urban environments. It could also act as an educational resource for students, professionals, and the general public, raising awareness about the importance of integrating nature and technology in architectural design.
Limitations
Despite the significant findings and valuable insights gained from the narrative review, it is important to acknowledge some limitations in the scope and interpretation of the data. First, the lack of comprehensive and detailed information on ephemeral architecture in some geographical regions or specific contexts should be noted, which may have skewed the overall understanding of the phenomenon. Furthermore, the availability of resources and access to specific information on ephemeral architecture projects and experiences may have been limited, which could have restricted the scope of the review and the thoroughness of the analysis. These limitations underscore the need for a critical and reflective approach when interpreting the findings of this research and highlight key areas for future research and developments in the field of ephemeral architecture in public spaces. In addition, there is a potential bias in the selection of information sources, which could have influenced the representativeness of the studies and projects analyzed. On the other hand, the thematic coverage of ephemeral architecture could also have been limited, implying that certain relevant aspects or approaches may not have been addressed in depth. Finally, the interpretation of ephemeral architecture data may be affected by subjectivity in assessing its impact and relevance in public spaces, suggesting the need for more rigorous methodological approaches in future research.
Suggestions for future research
For future research on the lack of ephemeral architecture in public spaces, it is suggested that the perceptions and experiences of end users regarding the integration of ephemeral interventions in their urban environment be explored further. This could involve qualitative studies examining how ephemeral architecture influences the sense of belonging, social cohesion, and community appropriation of public space. In addition, it would be beneficial to investigate the long-term effects of ephemeral interventions on the revitalization and revitalization of degraded urban areas and the promotion of cultural and sustainable tourism. Furthermore, it is recommended to explore further the comparative evaluation of different design strategies and management practices related to ephemeral architecture in different geographical and cultural contexts to identify best practices and lessons learned for application elsewhere. On the other hand, it would be valuable to explore the role of innovation in creating and implementing ephemeral interventions, as well as their potential to improve sustainability, accessibility, and citizen participation in the planning and design of public spaces. These suggestions could enrich existing knowledge about ephemeral architecture and its impact on configuring more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient urban environments.
BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES
1. Villanueva L, Bribiesca A. Arquitectura efímera: importancia, usos y aplicaciones en el espacio público. Ephemeral architecture: Importance, uses and applications in public space. 2023. http://www.pragma.buap.mx
2. Mosetti A. Recognizing the Scenic Value of the City: Ephemeral Architecture as a Medium to Evoke Urban Memories. Eur J Creat Pract Cities Landsc. 2020;3(1):33-52. https://doi.org/10.6092/issn.2612-0496/10129
3. García Ramírez W. Fenómenos de lo efímero. Otras arquitecturas efímeras en Colombia. Arquit Sur. 2020;38(57):56-73. https://doi.org/10.22320/07196466.2020.38.057.03
4. Muñoz JJ, Culaciati VO. The visual qualities of the ephemeral form. Arquit Rev. 2020;16(2):259-275. https://doi.org/10.4013/arq.2020.162.05
5. Gonçalves MP. O efêmero nos subúrbios da cidade do Rio de Janeiro: Micropráticas de resistência. Arquit Sur. 2020;38(57):128-145. https://doi.org/10.22320/07196466.2020.38.057.07
6. Zorzetto A, Barrios Padura Á, Molina Huelva M, Marzo M. POETICS OF REUSE OF THE HISTORICAL HERITAGE: THREE CASE STUDIES OF EPHEMERAL ARCHITECTURE IN VENICE. J Archit Urban. 2022;46(2):107-116. https://doi.org/10.3846/jau.2022.17078
7. Cordova D, Medina E. Arquitectura efímera como alternativa para la adaptación de espacios públicos a usos comerciales y culturales. 2020. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12918/7801
8. González A. Arquitectura efímera para eventos culturales: conceptualización de una estética transgresora. 2023. https://riunet.upv.es/handle/10251/195960
9. Jaen C. La arquitectura efímera de emergencia: la implementación de equipamiento de emergencia y de ayuda social por parte del Estado en crisis sanitarias por epidemias en Lima entre los siglos XIX y XX. 2020. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12404/24518
10. Montejano M, Moreno M. La habitabilidad efímera: El espacio público como refugio ante desastres en la ciudad de México. Arquit Sur. 2020;38(57):90-107. https://doi.org/10.22320/07196466.2020.38.057.05
11. Gómez R. DISEÑO DE MÓDULOS DE ARQUITECTURA EFÍMERA PARA FOMENTAR EL HÁBITO POR LA LECTURA EN JÓVENES DE 15 A 17 AÑOS EN LA I.E N°3519 “PHILIP P. SAUNDERS”, CARABAYLLO 2022. 2023. www.sian.info.ve
12. Di Lauro A. Effimero e temporaneo: Forme e linguaggi dello spazio pubblico nell’era dell’informazione. Ri-Vista. 2021;19(2):134-143. https://doi.org/10.36253/rv-11440
FINANCING
None.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
AUTHORSHIP CONTRIBUTION
Conceptualization: Juan Alberto Almirón Cuentas, David Hugo Bernedo-Moreira.
Data curation: Juan Alberto Almirón Cuentas, David Hugo Bernedo-Moreira.
Formal analysis: Juan Alberto Almirón Cuentas, David Hugo Bernedo-Moreira.
Drafting - original draft: Juan Alberto Almirón Cuentas, David Hugo Bernedo-Moreira.
Writing - proofreading and editing: Juan Alberto Almirón Cuentas, David Hugo Bernedo-Moreira.