Patterns of Urbanism - A Design Framework for the Networked Cities of Today

Abstract

Technology adds a new dimension to human experience and is an integral part of economy, industry, health, education, and design. The city of today is connected, functions in real time and is growing at an unprecedented rate. Requirements of livability and sustainability present a major challenge in contemporary cities and will require the collaboration of stakeholders at local, regional, national and international levels. This research identifies a nine point matrix as a design strategy for the rejuvenation of urban environments. Each of these points or ‘Patterns of Urbanism’ is elicited from a study of urban theory, precedence of real examples and culminates in a design synthesis. The matrix is designed to link concepts of sustainability with digital experience and would benefit cities, urban planners and architects in the design of sentient environments of the future.