3.2. Conceived Space

In this work, Indu has adopted Lefebvre’s theory of production of space. He talks about three different ontological positions of place. The second aspect, when he talks about the conceived space, is a space produced by visionaries, whether it is planners, political decision-makers, or based on ideologies. How they want to perceive and conceive this place.

The conceived space is a concept introduced by Henri Lefebvre, which refers to the way that visionaries like planners and political leaders conceptualize and design a space. It's not just about the physical characteristics of a place, but also about the ideas and ideologies that shape it. This shows how spaces can be directed by outside influences rather than by the immediate lived experiences of the people who will use them.

Think of a city plan that has been developed but doesn’t consider the needs of the local communities. For example, a new park may be designed without input from the residents, leading to a space that looks great on paper but fails to meet the community's needs.

The third aspect, which is talking about the lived space, consists of the emotional attachment that people have to a certain place. They develop a sense of belonging, reflected in their belief systems and daily behaviors.

Lived space is about the personal experiences and emotional connections people have to a place. While conceived space deals with how a place is envisioned by others, lived space is the reality of how people interact with, feel about, and relate to that place. It encompasses the daily routines and cultural practices that enrich a community's identity.

Imagine a family who has lived in the same neighborhood for years. They have created lasting memories there, like celebrating festivals or meeting friends at a local café. Their lived experience is rich, making the neighborhood more than just buildings; it becomes their home.

He talks about the absolute space, where perceived space, vernacular context, and conceived space interplay to create lived space. The abstract space is where conceived space takes over, driven by ideologies.

In Lefebvre’s framework, absolute space includes both perceived and conceived spaces. This means that the meanings and uses of spaces can evolve over time as different influences are introduced. For example, what might start as a purely designed space intended for one use may change as people begin to inhabit it, leading to new, unanticipated uses that reflect community needs.

Think of a factory that is repurposed into an art studio. Initially, the conceived plan was for manufacturing, but over time, as artists and the community get involved, the space transforms into something entirely different that serves a new purpose and builds a new community around artistic expression.

Indu got an exchange program in TU Munich and visited cases of displacement in Germany and Paris, studying how places are shaped by the experiences of their inhabitants.

Through her research, Indu explored real-world examples of how displacement affects living conditions and spatial awareness in urban environments. By examining different case studies in Germany and Paris, she observed how refugee communities adapt their environments based on existing cultural practices while facing challenges related to acceptance and integration in new places.

Consider a small community of Syrian refugees resettled in Berlin. They might adapt a neighborhood by opening a market that sells Middle Eastern spices and foods. Although the area was designed for another culture, the refugees create a new cultural identity within it, enriching the neighborhood’s diversity.

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