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Where is it?

Taiwan

What is it?

Rooftop extensions via corrugated sheet metal

Who did it?

Building owners

What purpose does it fulfill

Additional living space, storage, etc.

What rules does it break (if any)?

Formal/legal construction

Can it/should it be integrated into the formal framework?

Yes. It should be integrated into the formal framework because the extensive history of this type of "informal" construction can no longer be ignored or reversed. There is already too much built, the existence of this informal layer is already there. Not doing anything to accept and integrate it simply means it will continue to be a hazard and an eyesore.

How can the city accommodate informal initiatives?

By embracing its existence and recognizing it through new codes. These structures can become more formalized through a more uniform use of "proper" materials that are more aesthetically pleasing. At the same time, the patchwork-quilt quality of the layer can be preserved to become a defining characteristic of the city. Make this layer official through the connection of public spaces while allowing private owners to maintain their properties (ie. Create "front doors" on the roofscape.)

Does it belong to any "family" of informalities?

Urban grids/Informal Consequence

Are there example of similar informal interventions in different contexts?

Flavelas in Brazil