Crafting proximity: The case of brick-and-mortar artisanal ateliers in Turin, Italy

Drawing on an ethnographic study conducted in Turin, Italy, the article explores the role of small-scale artisanal activities in the development a local framework for social and territorial cohesion and chrono-urbanism approaches. In recent years, calls for improving quality of life in urban areas have highlighted the need to prioritize accessible services and sustainable mobility, supporting proximity in urban development plans. However, despite their recognized role in fostering liveable and sustainable urban environments, the arts and culture have often been overlooked by policymakers. By analysing the contribution of artisanal activities to local areas and considering the impact on crafts people's experiences of local policies for brick-and-mortar artisanal ateliers, the paper provides empirical insights of the multi-dimensional contribution of crafts to local sustainable development and on the enabling role of local regulations and policy initiatives. The findings point at the need to include arts and culture in urban planning approaches aimed at enhancing proximity frameworks inspired by chrono urbanist visions. • The paper looks at brick-and-mortar artisanal ateliers' role in local cohesion through the case of Turin, Italy. • The ethnography sheds light on how affective, social and environmental benefits for the local area are created. • The research highlights the role of regulations for the rental market in providing affordable working spaces to artisans. • The conclusion argues for the inclusion of arts and culture and the role of rental policies in chrono-urbanist approaches.