In many cities of Europe, authorization procedures are being lightened and speeded up to allow public places, not just bars and restaurants, to set up outdoor areas. So did Milan too, which published its guidelines this week. What is happening is a real revolution of outdoor spaces, especially in big cities. For a year, Superstudio has been working on the future of "being out", in all its forms, domestic and public, which was to be and will be a strong theme of the next Superdesign Show. This acceleration imposed by the health emergency is also making it possible to rethink urban spaces that are little used or less used due to a contraction of vehicle flows in favor of mobility on two wheels. A vast field of experimentation for designers and for the many solutions made available by production.

The new provisions of the Municipality of Milan, valid until the 31st of October, allow for an increase in the spaces available for all commercial activities and provide for simplified procedures to require the occupation of green areas, squares, sidewalks with tables, chairs, umbrellas, platforms, exhibition spaces. Among the main innovations, the free of charge of COSAP, the issue of the permit by the Municipality within 15 days, the possibility of obtaining spaces even if not in the immediate proximity of its activity...

In many cities of Europe, authorization procedures are being lightened and speeded up to allow public places, not just bars and restaurants, to set up outdoor areas. So did Milan too, which published its guidelines this week. What is happening is a real revolution of outdoor spaces, especially in big cities. For a year, Superstudio has been working on the future of "being out", in all its forms, domestic and public, which was to be and will be a strong theme of the next Superdesign Show. This acceleration imposed by the health emergency is also making it possible to rethink urban spaces that are little used or less used due to a contraction of vehicle flows in favor of mobility on two wheels. A vast field of experimentation for designers and for the many solutions made available by production.

The new provisions of the Municipality of Milan, valid until the 31st of October, allow for an increase in the spaces available for all commercial activities and provide for simplified procedures to require the occupation of green areas, squares, sidewalks with tables, chairs, umbrellas, platforms, exhibition spaces. Among the main innovations, the free of charge of COSAP, the issue of the permit by the Municipality within 15 days, the possibility of obtaining spaces even if not in the immediate proximity of its activity.
To encourage the development of projects in areas where there are multiple commercial activities that require space, the Administration may provide for temporary pedestrianisation and allow the laying of tables even if not close to the commercial activity.
Hoping that more activities along the same road front will agree to present a joint project that gives meaning and identity to the new layout.
The assignment of new spaces will have to take into account both the expansion of the factual situations and the new requests, maintaining a balanced relationship. In any case, it is important to ensure the movement of safety and rescue vehicles, a passage for pedestrians and mobility and the passage of disabled people and their companions.
The design, with tables, chairs, flower boxes and dividing panels, will be welcome as protagonist of the streets transformed into living areas.

For information: Municipality of Milan "Temporary land occupations" and the City Council of Milano resolution.