Emerging Public Realm of the Greater Bay Area: Approaches to Public Space in a Chinese Megaregion

This book explores the evolving relationship between public space and the public realm in the Greater Bay Area of southeastern China, highlighting innovative approaches to framing and conceptualizing public space in the context of rapid urban development. It brings together authors from various disciplines to examine issues of planning, political control, social inclusion, participation, learning/education, and appropriation in the production of everyday urbanism. The book offers a unique cross-disciplinary perspective and presents opportunities for reconfiguring design-driven urban practice beyond traditional interventions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 27 July 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating volume delves into the dynamic transformations occurring in public spaces and their interconnected relationship with the broader public realm within the bustling Greater Bay Area of southeastern China. With a projected population of eighty million inhabitants by 2025, this region stands as a testament to rapid urbanization. This book showcases a diverse range of approaches, drawing together esteemed authors from various fields such as urbanism, architecture, planning, sociology, anthropology, and politics. Through their insightful case studies and conceptual re-framings, the authors explore innovative ways of framing and conceptualizing public space within the Greater Bay Area.

The authors' firsthand practical experiences contribute to the uniqueness of this cross-disciplinary work, employing public space as a lens to examine pressing issues related to planning, political control, social inclusion, participation, learning/education, and appropriation in the everyday production of urbanism. Moreover, these spaces and practices offer remarkable opportunities for reconfiguring design-driven urban practice beyond traditional interventions focused on physical objects and public amenities. Instead, they pave the way for the design of new social protocols, processes, infrastructures, and capabilities that shape the very fabric of the urban landscape.

This captivating new dimension of urbanism and critical urban practice holds immense interest for academics, students, and practitioners alike, particularly those passionate about urbanization in China. The Greater Bay Area serves as a fertile ground for studying the evolving dynamics between public spaces, urban development, and the complex social, economic, and environmental challenges facing modern cities. By examining the case studies presented in this volume, readers gain valuable insights into the potential for creating more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient urban environments.

In conclusion, this volume offers a thought-provoking exploration of the evolving landscape of public spaces and the public realm in the Greater Bay Area. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to understand and navigate the complexities of urbanization in this rapidly growing region. Through its interdisciplinary approach, it provides a rich tapestry of ideas and perspectives that can inspire new thinking and innovative solutions for shaping the future of cities.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 174 x 244 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367367176