Icebreaker: Urban design through a Southeast Asian perspective

What is urban design ?

Urban design, to me, is the orchestration of spaces that shape the way we live, interact, and thrive in our cities. Its mission is to fill the gap left by planning and architecture. It is about creating harmonious environments that seamlessly blend functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. Urban design is the art of envisioning and crafting spaces that enhance the human experience, fostering a sense of community and connection.

Why urban design matters ?

As a Vietnamese student, the significance of urban design holds a profound resonance. In a country undergoing rapid urbanization, where cities are evolving at an unprecedented pace, public spaces were quickly left behind, making way for lucrative housing projects and bringing huge profits to investors. However, what brings value to the land lies in those public spaces, where people can interact and connect with each other, thereby forming healthy and quality residential communities. Therefore, urban design becomes a pivotal force. It is the key to transforming urban spaces into vibrant, inclusive communities that cater to the diverse needs of their inhabitants.

Figure 01: A dense urban area in Hanoi, Vietnam (2023)

Moreover, urban design serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity. In a country with a rich cultural heritage like Vietnam, integrating historical and cultural elements into urban planning becomes a delicate yet essential task. This fusion ensures that the urban landscape not only reflects modern aspirations but also preserves the unique identity and spirit of the community.

Figure 02: A street in Old Quarter, Hanoi (2017)

For a landscape designer like me, I see it as a catalyst for positive change. It is the tool that empowers us to contribute meaningfully to the evolution of our cities, creating spaces that are not just functional but resonate with the soul of the community. Urban design, therefore, becomes a journey of creativity, responsibility, and a commitment to crafting a sustainable and vibrant future for urban spaces.

References:

Minh, H. (2023) ‘Nhà cửa, phố phường lộn xộn: Vì sao?’. Dantri, 27 April 2023. Available at: https://dantri.com.vn/tam-diem/nha-cua-pho-phuong-lon-xon-vi-sao-20230426223122652.htm (Accessed: 4 January 2024).

Navoda Tours (2017) ‘How do people live in Hanoi Old Quarter?’. Linkedin, 23 August 2017. Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-do-people-live-hanoi-old-quarter-nadova-tours/ (Accessed: 4 January 2024).