Elena Granata: urbanist calls for radical choice in city transformation

In an interview with Artribune, urbanist Elena Granata, who serves as a professor at Politecnico di Milano and is the vice president of the Scuola di Economia Civile, expresses concerns about the absence of deliberate intent in urban development. She contends that progress achieved through conflicting projects sidesteps accountability for significant decisions. As a contender for the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale, Granata emphasizes the role of 'placemakers' in city transformation. While she acknowledges Carlo Ratti's recognition of these figures, she critiques the Biennale's suggestion that change happens passively. Granata champions 'militancy' in architecture, highlighting increasing public engagement on urban matters, such as Bergamo residents advocating for climate initiatives. She connects the housing crisis to exploitative capitalism and calls for rent control. Her forthcoming book will explore waiting areas in hospitals.