Ambience is Key in Any Innovation Strategy: A case study on urban design, sensitive ecology and political ecology

Abstract

In the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, innovation became a key element to promote economic growth. Cities started playing a significant role in promoting it quickly becoming torn between authentic urban regeneration processes and gentrification. We argue that ambience, and the concept of atmosphere, is a highly-relevant strategic element able to trigger city development that avoids gentrification. We take the inner-city parishes of Marvila and Beato (Lisbon, Portugal) as a case study currently undergoing significant changes due to strong investment after decades of neglect.