Marialena Nikolopoulou. Kent School of Architecture and Planning
Funding body: EPSRC
Project team: Sam Causer – architect, vice-chair of the Margate Conservation Area Advisory Group and a founder Steering Group member of the Margate Neighbourhood
Planning Forum: Carlos Maria Romero – live-artist, choreographer and founder member of Vividero Colectivo, Dr Carolina Vasilikou and Professor Marialena Nikolopoulou – CASE, KSA
Two linked projects were subcontracted to Sam Causer and Carlos Romero. The first project, Architectural Digital Activism: the coastal front of Margate and Cliftonville, aimed to evaluate the interaction between self-organised urban projects and processes used by community members to preserve the historical identity of Margate and celebrate architectural sites and community activities that form the heritage of the city. The main research question was to understand how digital tools might contribute to a success of a community-led project and how they can shape the different stages of its development.
In the case of Margate and Cliftonville, there were numerous self-organised projects in place, which, when put together, can create the canvas of a community vision for the future of the town. These initiatives, many started by artists, architects and activists, are linked to the development of local small businesses, the protection of cultural heritage, the regeneration of abandoned areas of architectural interest and the sustainability of a community vision for the city. A common denominator in these actions has been the use of digital tools, including free-access online platforms, social media and online technology in order to understand the impact of digital culture and the role of digital activism in engaging communities in the regeneration and urban transformation of their city.
The second project provided a design response to the above, developing a design strategy for a coastal walking path from Margate station to Botany Bay, using the existing seaside shelters along it as online activators of community engagement and attraction.
Part of the umbrella project Digital Economy: Communities and Culture Network.
Email m.nikolopoulou@kent.ac.uk
