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Where is it?

Seattle, WA

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What is it?

"Tent City" that is a colonization of tents for the homeless of Seattle. Some are provided housing alternatives to shelters, while others are more informal. However, the settlement is currently located on illegal land - usually it is attached to land that is owned by different local churches.

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Who did it?

The formal "Tent City 3" has been sponsored by the City and a local non-profit called SHARE/WHEEL.

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What purpose does it fulfil?

Housing and community.

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

In a way, it is operating in a formal framework by being sponsored by SHARE/WHEEL. However, there are still plenty of informal "tent cities" throughout the city of Seattle. Even individual tents setup sporadically around the city with no surrounding community.

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How can the city accommodate informal initiatives?

The city can provide one permanent plot of land for this initiative. Or even, turn it into a process of temporary housing. Until people can afford or find a permanent residence other than tent city.

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Does it belong to any "family" of informalities?

Belongs to Structured Materials & Urban Grids and Social Relationships

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Are there any examples of similar informal interventions in different contexts?

Yes, especially in Seattle. There are non-sponsored/illegal tent cities throughout Seattle. Especially near parks or green areas. The informal version of this typology could also been seen during CHOP in Cal Anderson Park - this past summer.

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