This conceptual paper introduces key elements of residential multi-locality studies, arguing that a relational and processual analysis helps understand the interplay of mobilities and stabilities and of presences and absences which are typical of the practices of multi-local living. Based on this perspective, research on familial forms of living and on second homes is re-interpreted. It is discussed how these research fields may contribute to progress in residential multi-locality studies and, on the other hand, which of their aspects would be better highlighted through the conceptual lens of multi-locality. The epistemological added value of this perspective is seen in the sensitivity towards the emergence of new forms of living and towards the ways their stability is achieved in spite of distance. This provides deeper insight into the geographies of families in mobile societies and enables a more profound assessment of the significance of residential economies.
Quantification of multi-local forms of living has been an urgent need expressed by science, planning, and politics. In the present paper, this aim is pursued by analysing sources of official statistics in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The available data sources turn out to differ in the three countries as regards content-related accuracy and depth as well as spatio-temporal differentiation. This forms the frame for discussing conceptual and methodological implications for future survey and evaluation practices and for pointing out both the problems and the prospects of quantifying this phenomenon.
Against the backdrop of demographic change, more and more attention is being paid to the decisions taken both by the elderly and by families with children when they choose to relocate elsewhere. Well-serviced, higher-density residential areas offer various advantages for the elderly; families with children, on the other hand, are generally seen as the classic agents of suburbanisation. However, even for this group there are certainly also arguments in favour of central residential locations. This article investigates the relocation activities of both groups, in particular in terms of a potential trend in the direction of re-urbanisation. To this end, the authors consider patterns of migration within city regions on the part of both the elderly and families with children; they examine the criteria which they apply in deciding where to live, and the types of residential areas they select. The research questions are investigated in a comparative approach, focusing on two differently structured urban regions.The Bergisches Land is an example of a "shrinking" urban region; the Bonn region, by contrast, is fl ourishing. The study is based on four modules: a migration-fl ow analysis, which draws on offi cial statistics; a standardised questionnaire sent out by post; guided interviews with respondents who have completed relocation; and a highly localised classifi cation of spatial types. Analysis shows that the elderly account for only a small share of migration activity within city regions. They have ties of many kinds which stand in the way of relocation. Elderly people also have high and quite complex demands with regard to their future address. Although some of these demands may be met particularly by higher-density locations, it is not possible to detect any marked tendency in favour of urban neighbourhoods. However, the low migration rates which are found in this demographic group represent potential for the future which could well be mobilised if the right kind of accommodation were to be made available. Families with children account for a much more sizeable slice of migration activity within city regions. In respect of the criteria affecting the choice of location, this group is more heterogeneous. In the case of families
Zusammenfassung Multilokalität und Transnationalität stellen wichtige Ausprägungen spätmoderner Lebensweisen dar. Gemeinsames Kennzeichen der vielfältigen, darunter diskutierten Einzelformen ist eine ausgeprägte Mehrfachverortung, in deren Zuge Menschen immer weniger auf einen (Wohn-)Standort festgelegt sind. Dies wird vor allem über Netzwerke zwischen Gruppen und Individuen ermöglicht, wobei sich zwischen den relevanten Orten differenzierte Sozialräume aufspannen. Die Bedeutung von Multilokalität und Transnationalität für die Stadtentwicklung wird bislang kaum dezidiert behandelt. Dies gilt für die Forschung, aber auch für die Städte, die in ihren Strategien wie auch Handlungen nur vereinzelt Bezug auf multilokale und transnationale Phänomene nehmen und in ihrer territorialen Logik verhaftet bleiben. Dabei spricht die quantitative wie qualitative Relevanz für eine stärkere Beachtung im Rahmen städtischer Governance. Der Beitrag skizziert einzelne Auswirkungen dieser Prozesse und nennt Ansatzpunkte für die Berücksichtigung veränderter raumzeitlicher Handlungsmuster in der Stadtentwicklung.
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