Abstract
The concept of socio-spatial groups proposed in this paper aims to provide a critical reflection on the research and practice of technical advisory services in architecture, urban design and urban planning. It designates groups for whom space is constitutive, and who, conversely, constitute (produce) space. We begin from the premise that technical advisory practices - as opposed to assistance - should strengthen group autonomy. The first section explains the context of the discussion, and the difference between notions and (theoretical) concepts. The second part demonstrates why technical advisory practices have to overcome notions such as client, user, beneficiary or community. The third explores sociological approaches to social groups, demonstrating that the concept of socio-spatial groups is neither tautological nor merely incremental. The final section illustrates and summarizes approaches of technical advisory practices that work reflectively with socio-spatial groups, i. e. that possess a concept in order to understand and discuss those that they serve.
Keywords:
Technical advisory practices; Social group; Socio-spatial research; Autonomy; Production of space