Agency within Neighborhoods: Multi-Scalar Relations between Urban Form and Social Actors

Ilaria Geddes (), Christakis Chatzichristou, Nadia Charalambous and Ana Ricchiardi
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Ilaria Geddes: Society and Urban Form Research Lab., Department of Architecture, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 1678, Cyprus
Christakis Chatzichristou: Department of Architecture, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 1678, Cyprus
Nadia Charalambous: Society and Urban Form Research Lab., Department of Architecture, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 1678, Cyprus
Ana Ricchiardi: Society and Urban Form Research Lab., Department of Architecture, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 1678, Cyprus

Land, 2024, vol. 13, issue 3, 1-30

Abstract: This research provides an abstract representation of neighborhoods, accounting for the actors involved in the process of their formation and transformation as local entities embedded in a complex yet specific configuration of historical, social, structural, and political contexts. The analysis uses a conceptual framework combining Assemblage Theory and Actor–Network Theory to examine how both human and non-human actors or agents interact and consequently exert an impact on three different neighborhoods in Limassol, Cyprus. The methodology combines both qualitative as well as quantitative approaches. The tools used include space syntax, land use, and building typology, descriptive statistics of social factors, a photographic survey, observation of the built environment’s expressive features, and archival research of press articles. The findings reveal the extent to which global factors, such as colonialism and the mobility of wealthy populations from former Soviet countries, have an impact on the social makeup and expressive features of the environment, while local factors, such as block size and housing typology, have a strong impact on the use of public space. Furthermore, more complex networks may exhibit structural resilience or adaptability but may be, at the same time, more sensitive to varying and conflicting interests.

Keywords: agency; Assemblage Theory; Actor–Network Theory; urban form; space syntax; mixed methods (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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