Collaborative Spaces: Nodes Within an Accelerated World

Authors

  • Maurizio Busacca Department of Philosophy and Cultural Heritage, Ca' Foscari University of Venice https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6774-1098
  • Cassandra Fontana Department of Architecture, University of Florence https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0855-7116
  • Beatrice Maria Bellè Department of Design, Politecnico di Milano https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7119-7889

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6092/issn.1971-8853/19551

Keywords:

Collaborative Spaces, Acceleration, Locational Patterns, Innovation Systems, Regional Analysis

Abstract

This study investigates the locational patterns and socioeconomic implications of collaborative spaces (CSs) within the Veneto region of Italy from an accelerationist perspective. Through a comprehensive analysis of the CSs distribution, infrastructural correlations, and socioeconomic contexts, this study explores the evolving role of CSs in contemporary urban landscapes. The findings reveal a nuanced picture of CSs localisation, indicating a dispersal pattern across medium- and small-sized cities, rather than concentrating solely on major urban centres. Proximity to productive and reproductive infrastructures has emerged as a consistent theme, underscoring the economic orientation of CSs within local economic systems. Furthermore, this study delves into the ambivalence of CSs, illustrating their dual role as catalysts of knowledge-based capitalism and sites of socioeconomic tensions. Despite their initial intention to foster professional communities, CSs often become enmeshed in the broader processes of economic exploitation and hegemony. By framing CSs within the context of local innovation systems, this study highlights their potential for intensifying knowledge circulation and collaboration among local actors. This study opens avenues for future research into the evolving role of CSs within innovation systems and their broader socioeconomic implications.

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2025-05-05

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Busacca, M., Fontana, C., & Bellè, B. M. (2025). Collaborative Spaces: Nodes Within an Accelerated World. Sociologica, 19(1), 37–64. https://doi.org/10.6092/issn.1971-8853/19551

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