HIGH-QUALITY URBAN ENVIRONMENT OUT OF SLOW DESIGN: REVIEW AND PROSPECT OF URBAN DESIGN PRACTICES IN CHINA

Abstract

Driven by unprecedented urbanization and everchanging applied technologies, urban planners and designers are exploring how to create comfortable living experience in fast-paced cities, thus rises the concept of “slowing city.” By reviewing years of design practices of Sasaki Associates, this article is focused on the core idea of “slowing city,” i.e., “making good use of local resources,” and its application into a number of urban regeneration practice. Further, by taking “user demands” as a critical reference, the article discusses how to coordinate the interests of a wide range of user groups and then facilitate cooperation among the government, citizens, and designers to ensure the long-term benefits of construction projects. Finally, critical thoughts are given to how the emerging technologies could contribute to urban construction and life quality, and the new opportunity that they may bring to the planning and design industry.

Keywords

Slowing City / Urban Design / Urban Regeneration / Historical Context / Multilateral Cooperation / Public Engagement / Technological Innovation

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2019 Higher Education Press