Valentine Brognion, Louvain Research Institute in Management and Organizations
Guilhem Bascle, Louvain Research Institute in Management and Organizations
Summary
This conceptual paper explores the micro-spatial configurations of interstitial episodes and their transformative potential at the individual level. Interstitial space is characterized by a place and time of interaction where individuals from different domains interact occasionally and informally around shared activities to which they dedicate a limited amount of time (Furnari, 2014, p. 439). We consider interstitial space at the scale of the interstitial episode, that is, a bounded exposure (time) generating recurring and differentiated interaction patterns specific to a meeting venue (place). Our analysis thus focuses on the micro-spatial description of how exposure to interstitial spaces supports cognitive and relational shifts at the individual level. We broaden the scope of interstitial spaces by developing a dimensional typology that presents systematic variations in the ability of interstitial episodes to cultivate change at the individual level.
Keywords: interstitial space, interstitial episode, spatial affordance, third places, change