Future Public Spaces: Urban Design in Times of Crisis

The book "Public Spaces: Renewing and Articulating" emphasizes the importance of local action and participatory urban design processes to strengthen the capacity of local governments to create effective public spaces. It showcases case studies from three cities and calls upon architects and urbanists to develop place-based solutions in challenging circumstances.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 664 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: JOVIS Verlag

The importance of renewing and articulating public spaces cannot be overstated, as they play a vital role in shaping the quality of our lives and the communities we inhabit. The needs and demands of public spaces are highly contextual, varying significantly based on local spatial and social conditions. Therefore, it is essential to take action at the neighborhood level, engaging and collaborating with residents to understand their specific requirements and aspirations.

One notable example of this approach is the project commissioned by the city of Vienna at the onset of the pandemic. The goal was to develop innovative designs for urban public spaces in three different cities: Dhaka (Bangladesh), Maputo (Mozambique), and Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic). The primary objective of this applied research was to strengthen the capacity of local governments to engage in participatory urban design processes.

This book serves as a call to action for architects and urbanists alike. It encourages them to develop place-based solutions that address the unique challenges and opportunities present in different contexts. By embracing a participatory and collaborative approach, we can create public spaces that are not only functional and accessible but also reflect the values, culture, and identity of the communities they serve.

In conclusion, the renewal and articulation of public spaces require a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. It involves engaging with residents, understanding local contexts, and designing solutions that are both functional and sustainable. By doing so, we can create public spaces that are not only valuable assets to our communities but also contribute to the overall well-being and vitality of our cities.

Dimension: 240 x 165 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783986120016