Fostering Pluriversal Perspectives in Theory of Change: A Case of an Urban Regeneration Project

This paper chronicles how we used a Theory of Change visual map to support pluriversal perspectives in urban regeneration projects. The map was tested in four cities under regeneration as part of the T-Factor project. Unlike most Theory of Change maps, it supported city stakeholders in three main aspects: 1) planning interventions to operate within multiple time horizons, 2) considering multiple actors, both human and non-human, in the decision-making process, and 3) reflecting on planned interventions to ensure a long-term impact beyond project scope. In addition, the Theory of Change map led towards a new approach for portfolio-based interventions in urban regeneration projects, emphasising long-term thinking and prioritising care activities over tangible hard ends. The map supplements the classic evaluation-based Theory of Change model, expanding the logic of how a polyphonic change process in the urban realm could occur through collaborative design practice.