Together through the long night

We approach a long night. Not just the yearly Nordic abyss but an era of global scarcity.

To halt climate change the building sector needs to reduce emissions by 90 %. In tandem, 2 billion new homes are needed. That means more cities, more infrastructure and more public spaces. As populations shift, new cultures are needed, unbound by former traditions.

In Helsinki we observe the underground rave scene as a way on how to do more with less. If the late 1900-century saw the adaptive re-use of warehouse lofts, the 2000s are marked by the occupation of former office spaces, now half a million square meters vacant and counting.

Characterised by cosy aesthetics, thrifted fabrics and self-built structures DIY parties now set up shop between glass doors and ceiling panels. By default, life cycle extension is practiced on all fronts.

With just a few thousand watts crowds of a few hundred are called to dance. Then the magic happens. Love is nurtured. Friendships are forged.

Dear Politician. The support needed here is something very hands-off, behind the scenes. Just give people access to unused spaces. Don’t bake this into our municipal marketing strategy. Let do, and nice things will come about.

See you on the dance floor!