Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience

A special issue of Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309). This special issue belongs to the section "Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (29 February 2024) | Viewed by 16805

Special Issue Editors

Urban Futures Laboratory, School of Architecture, The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA
Interests: sustainable urban form; sustainable architecture and urbanism; compact city theory
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Department of Architectural Design and Engineering Graphics, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszow University of Technology, Poznanska 2, 35-084 Rzeszow, Poland
Interests: resilient urban planning; regenerative design; adaptive reuse of buildings; urban farming; regreening cities

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The future of humanity is undoubtedly urban. The global disruptions that have arisen in recent years have shifted the thinking on resilient urban planning, including compactness, mixed land use, density, diversity, sustainable transportation, and green space. It is now known that cities must adapt existing knowledge and develop novel tools to accommodate a growing number of residents and respond to ever-changing threats, such as climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and armed conflicts. Threats affect cities of various scales and densities. As urban growth in large metropolitan areas is expected to stabilise or experience a decline, small- and medium-sized cities are becoming increasingly important in the regional landscape. New trends in urban planning arise to address poverty and inequality, mitigate and adapt to climate change, develop resilient urban economies, secure green spaces, and reduce urban health risks.

This Special Issue aims to provide an overview of existing knowledge on novel trends in urban planning for building social, economic, and environmental resilience in cities of various scales and densities. Original research (experimental and theoretical), case studies, and comprehensive review papers are invited for submission. Relevant papers include urban planning solutions, actions, and future-oriented scenarios focused on enhancing urban resilience through:

  • Governance and multilevel collaborations to confront future disruptions;
  • Strengthening community resilience;
  • Developing optimal compactness, density, and mixed land use;
  • Innovative technologies and digitalisation in urban planning for a better urban life;
  • Regenerative urban design for climate change mitigation, adaptation, and health;
  • Nature-based solutions and biodiversity improvement for increasing resilience against climate change, extreme weather events, and disease transmission;
  • Urban–rural interlinkages in urban planning and decision-making practices;

Strategies and guidance to reduce adverse impacts of past planning decisions.

Prof. Dr. Steffen Lehmann
Dr. Monika Szopinska-Mularz
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Buildings is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • urban resilience
  • future-oriented urban planning
  • governance for urban resilience
  • regenerative urban design
  • resilient communities
  • nature-based solutions
  • urban–rural interlinkages
  • reducing adverse impacts of past planning decisions
  • innovative technologies and digitalisation in urban planning

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Editorial

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13 pages, 4376 KiB  
Editorial
Research Methods in Urban Design: A Framework for Researching the Performance and Resilience of Places
by Steffen Lehmann
Buildings 2023, 13(6), 1548; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13061548 - 17 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4784
Abstract
Research is the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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Research

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24 pages, 4430 KiB  
Article
Investigating the Effect of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) on Social Equity—Examining the Displacement of Footscray, Melbourne
by Xinyi Wang, Yixuan Xie, Linhui Xia, Jin He and Beiyu Lin
Buildings 2024, 14(3), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030824 - 19 Mar 2024
Viewed by 606
Abstract
As Melbourne faces exponential population growth, the necessity for resilient urban planning strategies becomes critical. These strategies include mixed land use, density, diversity, and sustainable transportation through transit-oriented development (TOD). While TOD promises to accommodate growing populations and address environmental concerns, it also [...] Read more.
As Melbourne faces exponential population growth, the necessity for resilient urban planning strategies becomes critical. These strategies include mixed land use, density, diversity, and sustainable transportation through transit-oriented development (TOD). While TOD promises to accommodate growing populations and address environmental concerns, it also raises issues regarding its unintended consequences on poverty and inequality, notably through residential displacement and gentrification. This study investigates the impacts of TOD construction on inequality in Footscray, employing spatial analysis techniques like the hedonic price model (HPM), robust regression analysis, and Pearson correlation analysis. It aims to understand how spatial factors influence housing prices and their correlations. Additionally, the study uses observational spatial analysis via Google Street View (GSV) to examine indices such as housing development type, traffic signage, sanitation facilities, and house beautification. This approach seeks to build an evaluation framework to assess the extent of TOD street reconstruction and its impact on gentrification and displacement. The research adapts existing knowledge to create a tool for reviewing past planning decisions and assessing the fairness of TOD planning implementation. By providing assessment and guidance to mitigate the potential adverse impacts of TOD, this study contributes to the advancement of urban-planning practices, offering insights into mixed land use and effective strategies to balance economic development and social equity, thereby enhancing community resilience. Ultimately, this research deepens our understanding of the impacts of TOD on urban inequality and offers practical tools and insights for more equitable and sustainable urban development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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12 pages, 4477 KiB  
Article
Integrating Aerial and 3D Data into a Data-Driven Decision-Making Workflow for Nature-Based Stormwater Solutions
by Harry Edelman, Lasse Rosén, Emil Nyman and Piia Leskinen
Buildings 2023, 13(12), 2983; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13122983 - 29 Nov 2023
Viewed by 572
Abstract
Urbanization and climate change have increased the need for stormwater management and nature-based solutions. Decisions made at the project level impact the emergence of the systemic traits of the stormwater network and the functionality of the catchment areas in urban planning. To that [...] Read more.
Urbanization and climate change have increased the need for stormwater management and nature-based solutions. Decisions made at the project level impact the emergence of the systemic traits of the stormwater network and the functionality of the catchment areas in urban planning. To that end, it is vital to introduce the decision-making tools for analysing both the utilities and amenities of nature-based solutions (NBS) to increase their adoption to reduce the peak loads in the stormwater system and, to that end, mitigate the impacts of climate change. There is a deficiency in employing a software-based approach to analyse the qualitative and quantitative aspects of NBSs to back up design decisions. This paper demonstrates a workflow using drone-based photogrammetry, 3D modelling, and simulation software to generate visual and functional models assisting in informed decision-making in the design of stormwater systems as functional landscape architecture. Using aerial data from drones and modelled design solutions, the proposed workflow simulates rain events, infiltration, evaporation, water flow, and the accumulation of stormwater in a way that allows the visual and quantified analysis of detailed landscape architecture designs. The paper provides an example of a rooftop site simulation demonstrating the infiltration and flow of water to the drainage. The visual decision-making method provided can aid in investment decisions for functional landscape design in support of stormwater management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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13 pages, 754 KiB  
Article
Financing Brownfield Redevelopment and Housing Market Dynamics: Evidence from Connecticut
by Lucia Gibilaro and Gianluca Mattarocci
Buildings 2023, 13(11), 2791; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13112791 - 07 Nov 2023
Viewed by 606
Abstract
Brownfield redevelopment projects are often perceived as more risky than greenfield investment, and financing opportunities may be more limited and expensive. Different financial support projects have been developed to support regeneration projects, and empirical evidence has shown that all buildings near the intervention [...] Read more.
Brownfield redevelopment projects are often perceived as more risky than greenfield investment, and financing opportunities may be more limited and expensive. Different financial support projects have been developed to support regeneration projects, and empirical evidence has shown that all buildings near the intervention area may benefit from an increase in prices once the brownfield project is complete. The article considers the Connecticut market and evaluates the characteristics of the brownfield projects that had access to a financial support program (loan or grant), the impact of the regeneration process on the liquidity of the housing market, and the gap between the price and the appraisal value of the residential unit. Target areas for this type of financing program are mainly characterized by low income, a high density of population, a high incidence of homeowners, and a high crime rate. Once completed, the brownfield requalification has an impact on the housing market because the brownfield recovery reduces the number of house sales due to the increase in the average price in the surrounding area and makes the selling price more consistent with the appraisal valuation. The empirical evidence provided may be useful for public institutions that are suffering from budget constraints and have to prioritize areas for financial support solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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31 pages, 9118 KiB  
Article
Promoting Social Equity and Building Resilience through Value-Inclusive Design
by Eric Harris, Anna Franz and Sabine O’Hara
Buildings 2023, 13(8), 2081; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13082081 - 16 Aug 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3145
Abstract
Urban design and architecture have inadvertently contributed to the bifurcation of societies divided into haves and have-nots, thus undermining social equity, restricting opportunity, and resulting in poverty next to overabundance and waste. Global population growth and urban migration pressures compound the problem. The [...] Read more.
Urban design and architecture have inadvertently contributed to the bifurcation of societies divided into haves and have-nots, thus undermining social equity, restricting opportunity, and resulting in poverty next to overabundance and waste. Global population growth and urban migration pressures compound the problem. The call for social equity and justice is, therefore, urgent from a social perspective and an environmental one. This study explores a concept we call ‘value-inclusive design’ and its potential for transformation toward ‘judicial equity’. Our value-inclusive design method proposes neighborhood interactions and co-design as a way to create welcoming spaces that preserve natural resources, support economic sustainability, and improve architectural design to foster health and wellbeing for people and the environment. This article discusses the potential of our value-inclusive design model in contributing to judicial equity by applying it to an international student competition called the ‘Global Greenhouse Challenge #3’, launched by Wageningen University and Research. By viewing the results of the Global Greenhouse challenge through the lens of value-inclusive design, we find that the model has merit and provides a useful theoretical framework for promoting social equity in urban planning and design. We conclude that by applying the model, its constructs can enhance design approaches that seek to improve the quality of life of residents while building resilience and shifting agency through co-design. The model can, thus, be a means for driving continuous improvement in architectural design and applying it in an educational setting such as the Global Greenhouse Challenge student competition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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20 pages, 15744 KiB  
Article
Adopting Resilience Thinking through Nature-Based Solutions within Urban Planning: A Case Study in the City of València
by Gemma García-Blanco, Daniel Navarro and Efren Feliu
Buildings 2023, 13(5), 1317; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13051317 - 18 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1554
Abstract
The paper exposes the experience of València in applying climate-resilient thinking to the current revision of the city’s General Urban Development Plan. A semi-quantitative, indicator-based risk assessment of heat stress was carried out on the 23 functional areas of the city sectorized by [...] Read more.
The paper exposes the experience of València in applying climate-resilient thinking to the current revision of the city’s General Urban Development Plan. A semi-quantitative, indicator-based risk assessment of heat stress was carried out on the 23 functional areas of the city sectorized by the Plan, including modeling and spatial analysis exercises. A data model of 18 indicators was built to characterize vulnerability. A thermal stress map was developed using the URbCLim model and a heat index was then calculated using Copernicus hourly data (air temperature, humidity, and wind speed) for the period of January 2008–December 2017 at a spatial resolution of 100 m × 100 m. General recommendations at the city level as well as guidelines for development planning in the functional areas at risk are provided, with specifications for the deployment of nature-based solutions as adaptation measures. From a planning perspective, the study positively informs the General Urban Development Plan, the City Green and Biodiversity Plan, and contributes to City Urban Strategy 2030 and City Missions 2030 for climate adaptation and neutrality. Applying the same approach to other climate change-related hazards (i.e., water scarcity, pluvial flooding, sea level rise) will allow better informed decisions towards resilient urban planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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15 pages, 280 KiB  
Article
Ethics of Climate Change Adaptation—The Case of Torrential Rains in Norway
by Jardar Lohne, Anders Solheim, Tone Merete Muthanna, Berit Time, Åshild Lappegard Hauge, Bjørn Gudleik Kalsnes, Ola Lædre and Tore Kvande
Buildings 2023, 13(5), 1111; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13051111 - 22 Apr 2023
Viewed by 1581
Abstract
This article analyses adaptation to climate induced challenges in form of torrential rains hitting urban landscapes in Norway with increased frequency. Specifically, it investigates the influence of the industry structure on ethical challenges when the climate changes. A meta-analysis of the scientific output [...] Read more.
This article analyses adaptation to climate induced challenges in form of torrential rains hitting urban landscapes in Norway with increased frequency. Specifically, it investigates the influence of the industry structure on ethical challenges when the climate changes. A meta-analysis of the scientific output from a major multi-disciplinary research program is carried out. In addition, the methods include use of expert opinions, literature review and document studies. Climate change adaptation challenges disciplines within civil engineering and natural sciences. Following this, established practices need alteration as specialists face new ethical challenges. Practical climate change adaptation requires the ability to overcome silo mentality among the involved disciplines. Challenges involve acknowledging responsibility, transparency, and information quality. Engineering takes place in an environment of incomplete knowledge. In addition, there is a high degree of decentralised decision-making and directives, and laws and regulations are often lagging after the experienced challenges. Consequently, individual experts experience increased ethical challenges. Systemic circumstances apprehension is necessary for reducing societal risks within climate change adaptation. Both education of engineers and cooperation between specialists from different disciplines is needed to master the altered framework conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
24 pages, 1303 KiB  
Article
Balancing Increased Urban Density with Green Spaces: The Marketing of New Housing Estates in Poland
by Monika Szopińska-Mularz and Steffen Lehmann
Buildings 2023, 13(3), 777; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030777 - 15 Mar 2023
Viewed by 2200
Abstract
This study aims to analyse the transformation of urban greenery into greenfield housing development from 2019 to 2023 in the medium-sized city of Rzeszow (Poland) by evaluating the validity of references to the greenery in advertising texts on the developers’ websites. Furthermore, to [...] Read more.
This study aims to analyse the transformation of urban greenery into greenfield housing development from 2019 to 2023 in the medium-sized city of Rzeszow (Poland) by evaluating the validity of references to the greenery in advertising texts on the developers’ websites. Furthermore, to assess the impact of the proposed greenery-related changes on urban green infrastructure. Through web-based research, 13 greenfield housing developments were identified. Changes in land use of areas that were allocated to urban green infrastructure were highlighted by applying GIS spatial analysis. The written and visual content analysis identified references to greenery in advertising campaigns. Finally, status relations analysis was performed to assess whether the specific advertising website presents an added ecological asset that can be considered as a nature-based solution or should be interpreted as greenwashing. The study revealed that the advertising websites for greenfield housing development constructed from 2019 to 2023 in Rzeszow do not represent an additional ecological asset, but committed greenwashing. All analysed housing estates trigger irretrievable environmental damage. The advertising material does not define the environmental indicators of the housing estates, including how the new construction would compensate for the destruction of natural habitats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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Other

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21 pages, 2617 KiB  
Systematic Review
Advancing Urban Life: A Systematic Review of Emerging Technologies and Artificial Intelligence in Urban Design and Planning
by Wei He and Mingze Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(3), 835; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030835 - 20 Mar 2024
Viewed by 432
Abstract
The advancement of cutting-edge technologies significantly transforms urban lifestyles and is indispensable in sustainable urban design and planning. This systematic review focuses on the critical role of innovative technologies and digitalization, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in urban planning through geo-design, aiming to enhance [...] Read more.
The advancement of cutting-edge technologies significantly transforms urban lifestyles and is indispensable in sustainable urban design and planning. This systematic review focuses on the critical role of innovative technologies and digitalization, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in urban planning through geo-design, aiming to enhance urban life. It begins with exploring the importance of AI and digital tools in revolutionizing contemporary urban planning practices. Through the methodology based on the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol, this review sifts through relevant literature over the past two decades by categorizing artificial intelligence technologies based on their functionalities. These technologies are examined for their utility in urban planning, environmental modeling, and infrastructure development, highlighting how they contribute to creating smarter and more livable cities. For instance, machine learning techniques like supervised learning excel in forecasting urban trends, whereas artificial neural networks and deep learning are superior in pattern recognition and vital for environmental modeling. This analysis, which refers to the comprehensive evaluation conducted in this Systematic Review, encompasses studies based on diverse data inputs and domains of application, revealing a trend toward leveraging AI for predictive analytics, decision-making improvements, and the automation of complex geospatial tasks in urban areas. The paper also addresses the challenges encountered, including data privacy, ethical issues, and the demand for cross-disciplinary knowledge. The concluding remarks emphasize the transformative potential of innovative technologies and digitalization in urban planning, advocating for their role in fostering better urban life. It also identifies future research avenues and development opportunities. In light of our review findings, this study concludes that AI technologies indeed hold transformative promise for the field of geo-design and urban planning. They have proven instrumental in advancing predictive analytics, refining decision-making, and streamlining complex geospatial tasks. The AI’s capacity to process expansive datasets and improve urban planning accuracy has facilitated more sustainable urban development and enhanced the resilience of urban environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Trends in Urban Planning for Building Urban Resilience)
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