Re-Reading Instant Urbanism

Ecological Infrastructure and the Production of Public Space in Dubai Marina and Masdar City

Abstract

This paper aims to examine the implementation and application of infrastructure, urban spatial layout, and building systems within two urban models from the perspective of ecological strategies, with the goal of realizing the concept of “instant urbanism.” The paper also aims to examine the feasibility and challenges of ecological design under extreme environmental conditions.

First, “instant urbanism” denotes the fast, often unofficial and temporary, construction of cities. It is known for cheap, malleable and adaptable interventions that break the traditional, slow process of urban planning. Known as “tactical urbanism” or “pop-up urbanism,” the practice involves small-scale, fast, community-led interventions to bring life back to abandoned spaces and address immediate community needs.