Lifelines: Politics, ethics, and the affective economy of inhabiting

Inhabitation is defined by the plurality of conditions,geographies,and politics,and Lifelines is a work of collective research on the spaces where life intertwines,mingles,and twists in constant resistance to the mechanisms that capture,exploit,and create precariousness.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2022
Publisher: JOVIS Verlag

In the face of the profound convergence of a health crisis and an ecological crisis, it is impossible to revert to the investigative trajectories on inhabitation and dwelling that yielded fruitful results in the past. What then defines inhabitation within the diverse array of conditions, geographies, and politics that connote it?

Lifelines is a collaborative research project that delves into the spaces where life intertwines, blends, and twists in constant resistance to the mechanisms that perpetuate social and environmental precariousness, emblematic of the violent techno-capitalist present. The book explores the roles and challenges of design in uncertain spaces, drawing from empirical explorations conducted in Italy, Ecuador, the United States, Lebanon, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

The health crisis and ecological crisis are not separate issues but interconnected, with the latter exacerbating the former. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of our global health systems and the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect both human and environmental health. At the same time, climate change, deforestation, and pollution have led to devastating environmental consequences, including biodiversity loss, climate-related disasters, and food insecurity.

To address these challenges, it is essential to reimagine our relationship with the built environment. Traditional approaches to urban planning and design often prioritize economic growth and efficiency, but they often come at the expense of social and environmental sustainability. Lifelines seeks to challenge these approaches by exploring the role of design in creating resilient and sustainable communities.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of designing for multiple stakeholders and scales. In uncertain spaces, where the boundaries between different systems and actors are blurred, design must consider the needs and perspectives of a wide range of individuals and groups. This requires a collaborative approach that involves stakeholders from different sectors, including government, industry, academia, and community organizations.

Another theme of Lifelines is the role of design in addressing social and economic inequality. In many communities, marginalized groups are often excluded from decision-making processes and have limited access to resources and opportunities. Design can play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and equity by creating spaces that are accessible, affordable, and inclusive of all members of society.

Lifelines also explores the role of design in responding to climate change. By designing buildings and cities that are energy-efficient, sustainable, and resilient to climate-related disasters, we can mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a more sustainable future. This requires a holistic approach that considers not only the built environment but also transportation, agriculture, and energy systems.

In addition to these themes, Lifelines also provides case studies and examples of successful design projects that have addressed social and environmental challenges. These projects range from urban regeneration projects in post-industrial cities to community-based renewable energy initiatives in rural communities. By showcasing these examples, Lifelines aims to inspire and empower designers and policymakers to create more sustainable and resilient communities.

In conclusion, the convergence of a health crisis and an ecological crisis requires a new approach to inhabitation and dwelling. Lifelines offers a valuable contribution to this conversation by exploring the roles and challenges of design in uncertain spaces and promoting a more sustainable and resilient future. By designing for multiple stakeholders and scales, addressing social and economic inequality, and responding to climate change, we can create a more just and sustainable world.

Weight: 863g
Dimension: 240 x 165 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783868597530