Capturing Obscura: Toward a Participatory Framework for (Re)making of Space of Liminality

Abstract

Capturing Obscura intends to identify and activate the space of liminality—a residual space resulting from top-down capital planning production—through a participatory methodology that supports the continuous (re)making of the urban landscape. Liminality is adopted here for its ability to address both time and space—its transitional, temporal, and ephemeral qualities reflect a relationship with time, while its informality and lack of prescribed function underscore its spatial ambiguity. Cambridge, MA is selected as the site for its accessibility and potential for fieldwork. The project identifies liminal spaces through ethnographic observation and develops a guidebook of toolkits that activate liminal space as an inclusive public space, supporting community participation and engagement throughout the design process. The crux of the thesis is to explore a reciprocal design methodology by examining the space of liminality and inviting communities to engage in the design process for a cohesive and vibrant urban landscape experience.