tukimallism

Tukimallism is a speculative political-economic doctrine that advocates for the creation of self-contained local mall ecosystems—often termed tukimalls—intended to revitalize urban districts by combining commerce, housing, and social services within compact, walkable nodes. Proponents imagine these centers as anchors for local economies, offering employment, affordable services, and communal spaces while preserving neighborhood identity.

Originating in urbanism debates during the 2010s, tukimallism draws its name from the central concept of the tukimall: a multipurpose center that functions as marketplace, workplace, and community space. The term is primarily found in theoretical discussions and has not been adopted as formal policy by any government.

Core tenets include mixed-use design, dense and walkable layout, and governance structures that blend municipal oversight with private investment. Tukimallism emphasizes support for small businesses and cooperatives, inclusive access for residents of varying income levels, and the integration of digital infrastructure and data-driven management. It also envisions neighborhood-level decision-making bodies linked to mall campuses to influence tenant mix, programming, and public amenities. Environmental sustainability and climate resilience are commonly highlighted as design priorities.

Policy instruments associated with tukimallism involve zoning reforms to permit large-scale, multi-use complexes; incentives and assistance for small tenants; community benefit agreements; and potential public ownership stakes or long-term leases for anchor tenants. Performance metrics often focus on job quality, affordability, accessibility, and social outcomes alongside traditional economic indicators.

Reception of tukimallism is mixed. Critics warn of debt risk, displacement, and overreliance on consumer-centric development, while supporters view it as a way to reimagine urban space and local economies beyond conventional malls or purely market-driven models. It remains primarily a theoretical and analytical concept with limited real-world implementation.