Macro and Micro permeability attributed to Eurocentric and Afrocentric-evolved Spaces - Case study of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

- Informal sector has proved to contribute in space generation.
- There is a correlation between number of activities and number of connections in permeability.
- In this study permeability was observed as a function of formal and informal spaces.
- Spatial quality in terms of flexibility, adaptability and connectedness was observed.
- Permeability has improved the quality of commercial spaces by easily and smoothly linking activities and users.

This paper discusses about the process of evolution and existence of permeable spaces attributed to the European Colonial Planning System “Eurocentric” and later to local and informal evolution of other commercial spaces “Afrocentric” due to socio-economic activities.The study is aimed to shed light in understanding the process of space formation and also the nature and quality of the generated space “permeability” in facilitating the socio-economic activities. The study is based on three field surveys conducted in 2008, 2009 and 2010, where spatial, architectural, social and statistical analyses are applied in the discussion.The existence of permeable spaces is observed at street and block level “Macro permeability” and at building and interior space organization level “micro permeability” where the two coexist interdependently.The study is based on qualitative method where most of the data are graphically analyzed based on the existing situation. It can be concluded from the study that: (1) Even though the policy changed in 1990s, the role of the informal sector as space generator had started much earlier in 1960s, where it took place “behind the scene” in transforming buildings and blocks along major streets. (2) Moreover, the new permeable spaces observed in the neighborhood work more naturally and are flexible to connecting people, activities and spaces. (3) A correlation between activity space (space) generation and linkage (connection) growth was observed, and they increase spontaneously.Lastly, it is not just enough to appreciate the new spatial permeability but also vital for the planning authorities to work with the commercial activity-owners so as to improve the newly generated spaces and connections (permeable spaces) in order to foster a business environment in urban areas.