QUALITY, CHARACTERISTICS, AND IDENTITY PROTECTION OF URBAN SPACE IN THE INTERNET ERA

Abstract

In this interview, three scholars discussed the problems in China’s urban renewal practice in the Internet Era and the context of inventory development. They first reviewed the factors that impact the characteristics and identity of urban space, and pointed out that urban renewals should not neglect the social, cultural, artistic, historical, and ecological qualities of space. They then underscored the aesthetic education will be future research and practice interest in the field of urban renewal. They noted that, under the impact of “attention economy” and ”online influence,” urban spatial construction across Chinese cities would be homogenized, compromising the diversity of spatial characteristics. Nonetheless, urban planners and designers can leverage the online platforms as communication channels and resources for the protection of spatial characteristics and identities, and to foster new urban development paradigms. In addition, the scholars believed that the public should have a greater discourse power in urban renewals, which requires the the promotion of Community Co-building Initiative, and designers’ efforts in promoting related research and education programs. In the end, they discussed the challenges faced by the protection of historical sites, including the outdated urban governance methods, flawed urban development institution, and the lack of funds due to the slowdown of economic growth. They also encouraged designers to respond to these challenges with long-term, proactive, and innovative perspectives, truly meeting citizens’ daily needs, improving urban governance methods, optimizing urban renewal mechanisms, and impelling the growth of local economy.

Keywords

Space Characteristics and Identity / Space Quality / Urban Governance / Aesthetic Consciousness / Online Influence / Urban Renewal / Discourse Power

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