Ecologies Design: Transforming Architecture, Landscape, and Urbanism

The concept of ecology has become central to contemporary design discourse, reflecting concerns for our planet and the human species' primary entanglement with the rest of the world. This book argues that the 'biological and 'social senses of ecology are both important and require distinctly different types of knowledge and practice. It proposes that science needs to be taken more seriously in 'biological ecologies, and that 'social ecologies can now be understood non-metaphorically as assemblages. The plural term 'ecologies design refers to these three types of ecological design, and this book is unique in bringing these three perspectives together in one place. It provides an overarching critique of current ecologically-oriented approaches and offers evidence and exploration of emerging and effective methods, techniques, and concepts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The concept of ecology has gained significant importance in contemporary design discourse, reflecting the growing concerns for our planet and a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between humans and the rest of the natural world. The term 'ecology in design typically encompasses the integration of ecological principles into design and urban planning, with a focus on understanding these concepts from a biologically scientific and technical perspective. However, in practice, the application of this scientific knowledge tends to be rather loose. Additionally, the notion of ecology is often metaphorically used to describe the social utilization of space and cities.

This book argues that both the 'biological' and 'social' senses of ecology are crucial and necessitate distinct types of knowledge and practices. It suggests that science should be given greater importance in studying 'biological ecologies,' while 'social ecologies' can be understood non-metaphorically as assemblages. Furthermore, the book proposes that design practice itself can be approached more rigorously, productively, and relevantly if viewed through an ecological lens.

The term 'ecologies design' encompasses these three distinct perspectives on ecological design. This book stands out by bringing together leading international experts and relevant case studies in the form of edited research essays, case studies, and project work. It offers a comprehensive critique of current ecologically-oriented approaches and provides evidence and exploration of emerging and effective methods, techniques, and concepts. This book will be of immense value to scholars, practitioners, and policymakers interested in sustainable design and urban development.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367491055