On the Professional Benefits of Tactical Urbanism

An installment from Spacing's "Cities for People" series makes the case for tactical urbanism as a supplement to professional practice.

1 minute read

January 29, 2015, 1:00 PM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


"As a so-called 'design professional' with six years of university education in architecture behind me, it can be a challenge to straddle the professional and the grassroots, but it can also be extremely rewarding. Collaborating on tactical urbanism projects lets me challenge my role as both a citizen and a professional, and I try to contribute as both," writes Sarah Gelbard.

Gelbard, who was one of the creative minds behind the Impromptu Playground project, begins the article by recounting the Ottawa Musical Underground event from last summer called Set the Stage, which reclaimed a freeway underpass for the purpose of making and listening to music.

The article includes insight into the process of Gelbard and her compatriots as well as clear descriptions of the value such activities have for her life and her career.

Wednesday, January 21, 2015 in Spacing

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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