Open spaces, closed boundaries: transparent workspaces as clerical female ghettos

an article by by Varda Wasserman (affiliation(s) not provided) published in International Journal of Work Organisation and Emotion Volume 5 Number 1 (2012)

Abstract

This research attempts to explore the link between organisational space and gender power relations.

Drawing on extensive research conducted at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this paper demonstrates three spatial mechanisms, which construct and reconstruct a docile female body and a gendered identity:

• “anonymisation” of space;
• disabling the ability to control space; and
• subjugation of employees to surveillance.

By applying theories of feminist geography, this paper explores how planning and design is not gender-neutral, but rather anchored in power relations, which are deeply camouflaged.

Furthermore, it illustrates that spatial arrangements render the body a site of control and organisational impression management.

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