China 2017 - Towards Humane Cities

TL;DR

This presentation explores the challenges and paradoxes that arise from rapid urbanization and the collision between rural and urban areas. It discusses the need for design that engages with local conditions and cultural factors, and presents examples of projects that aim to address these issues.

Transcript

hello everyone lots of exciting sessions going on my name is Rivera Massoud I am a global shaper from the Samba hub of Carcassonne I'm an architect and an urban designer work at the confluence of human behavior and the design of natural and built spaces so very interested in bringing design thinking and the humane aspect into design and cities I'm ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥺 Rapid urbanization leads to collisions between rural and urban areas, creating challenges that require design solutions.
• 👳 Engaging different stakeholders and fostering collaboration is crucial for successful urban development projects.
• 🎨 Design can transform rural areas by addressing specific cultural and societal conditions and integrating social and ecological elements.
• 📽️ Finance for humane urban projects can be secured through various funding sources and by demonstrating the project's value.
• 🏙️ Existing housing stock in cities can be made more humane by analyzing specific needs and challenges and implementing holistic design interventions.
• 🏙️ The concept of a humane city includes qualities like community, diversity, innovation, and ecological sustainability.
• 👳 Collaboration and understanding the unique qualities of different cities are important for creating effective and inclusive urban solutions.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do you engage different stakeholders in the design process for urban development projects?

Engaging different stakeholders can be challenging, but it is important to create a platform for open communication and collaboration. Models and prototypes can help make the design process clear and tangible. Leadership and a shared vision are also crucial for achieving buy-in from all stakeholders.

Q: How does design play a role in transforming rural areas into more sustainable and inclusive spaces?

Design can play a significant role in transforming rural areas by creating infrastructure that addresses the needs and challenges of the local community. By integrating social and ecological elements into the design, such as public spaces and ecological toilets, rural areas can become more sustainable and inclusive.

Q: How can finance be secured for projects that aim to transform urban areas into more humane spaces?

Securing finance for such projects can be a challenge, but it is possible to leverage different funding sources, including academic funding, donations, and government funding. Engaging with private sector partners can also help in securing funding. Additionally, demonstrating the value of the project in terms of social and cultural impact can attract investors.

Q: How can existing housing stock in cities be made more humane?

Making existing housing stock more humane requires a holistic approach. It is important to analyze the specific challenges and needs of the community living in that housing, and then design interventions that address those issues. This can include improving community spaces, introducing sustainable practices, and creating opportunities for social interaction.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The presentation discusses the collision between rural and urban areas in the age of rapid urbanization.

• It highlights the need to engage with the contradictions and challenges that arise from this collision through design.

• Examples of projects that aim to address these challenges are presented, including combining different forms of infrastructure and preserving the idea of the common good in villages.