Complex patterns of self-organized neighbourhoods

Complexity theory has increased our understanding of cities as dynamic, self-organizing systems. However, the planning practice of today often collides with the complex urban realm, and is incapable of steering or even recognizing self-organization. Since many self-organization mechanisms may actually be indispensable to the city, we need a better understanding of them to develop appropriate planning tools. In this paper the complex nature of self-organization in the industrial district of Nekala in the Finnish city of Tampere is studied using isovist analyses for statistical observation to confirm the inner diversity of the spontaneously evolving phenomenon. The conclusion section includes some remarks on accommodating self-organization principles in planning.