Performatividad del espacio público.

Cuerpo y espacio como agentes activos de diseño.

Abstract

This study addresses the role that bodies currently play in the transformation of public space. This paper suggests a performative design approach that allows the body to be sustained as an active agent in the material construction of the public space; not just as a symbolic participant. At the same time, it seeks to recognize space as a live/active element, thus emphasizing its capacity to activate processes. To this end, three key axes of performative design for public space are defined: (1) A relationship between the body and public space in terms of agency and transformation; (2) A tension between fixity and fluidity; and (3) A focus on bodily and affective experience. The relevance of this study lies in its theoretical and methodological contribution integrating the bodily dimension into urban design, thus enhancing a sensitive, affective, and embodied perspective, which is so necessary in contemporary sedentary societies.