Design Capital: The Hidden Value of Design in Infrastructure

This book provides designers with the tools to argue for the value of design in infrastructure projects, highlighting the social value that exceeds construction expenditure. It addresses controversial outcomes such as gentrification, globalization, and consumer tourism and supports its proposition with economic valuation and Bourdieus's theory of cultural capital.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Well-designed infrastructure not only brings significant social value but also far exceeds its initial construction expenditure. However, competition for scarce government funds and a general public perception of infrastructure as mere efficiency have often led to design being overlooked. This book aims to provide designers with the necessary tools to advocate for the value of design, which the authors refer to as "design capital." By naming and defining design capital, design can once again become an integral part of discussions and realization in infrastructure projects.

Design Capital offers strategies and tools for justifying public spending on design considerations in infrastructure projects. It demonstrates how design can infuse infrastructure with cultural or social value, as seen in the case studies provided. This value can then contribute to the accumulation of design capital, which can be valuable for infrastructure projects.

Support for this proposition is drawn from various economic valuation methodologies, as well as Bourdieu's theory of cultural capital. The book explains the design methodology and provides education on the importance of design in infrastructure. It also includes a series of historical and contemporary case studies to illustrate the potential of design in creating meaningful and valuable infrastructure.

In addition to discussing the social value of design, the book also addresses some of the controversial outcomes associated with contemporary infrastructure, such as gentrification, globalization, and consumer tourism. By recognizing these issues, designers can better understand the potential impacts of their work and work towards creating more sustainable and equitable infrastructure.

Overall, Design Capital provides designers with the tools and knowledge needed to advocate for the value of design in public infrastructure. By recognizing the potential of design to create meaningful and valuable infrastructure, designers can help ensure that public spending is allocated to projects that benefit society as a whole.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367565435