A spatial strategy for the production of place in two German cities - Urban design interventions as a driver for spatial transformation

Abstract

The paper introduces a new methodological perspective to the process of urban design, which reacts to the increasing interdependence of multipe scales in almost all facets of life. The production of place in the contemporary urban context calls for a new conception of space. We conceive space as the result of physical and non-physical activities and their relations across scales and over time. Based upon this understanding, we have identified five key competencies that might support the relevance and scope of urban design. Thus, urban design can neither be understood as a purely physical task nor as a purely social one. It needs to be rooted in the present but pointed towards the future. It is the combined result of a multitude of interventions into space and society. These need to consider strategically their short-, medium-and long-term impact. Only then, design can be medium for debate between decision makers, planners, institutions and the general public.

The voice of society in designing public recreational spaces (PRS) in an urban environment

“…As social institutions, cities should strive to improve and implement innovative solutions that promote the creation of resident-, environment-, and climate-friendly cities. A friendly urban environment (Wiese et al, 2014) is characterised by a high quality of life; it enables seniors to lead healthy and active lives and age with dignity in their communities. Placemaking is a people-based approach that emerged in response to hybrid city (Marino et al, 2023) and smart city, a concept which addresses urban challenges such as sustainability, quality of life, and resilience (European Commission, 2023).…”