The Architecture of Contemporary Cities Six Transnational Issues

Since the 1990s, increasing evidence of transnational and homogenized methods of planning and designing new developments has arisen in Western and Asian cities. The Architecture of Contemporary Cities uses an interdisciplinary approach, combining urban planning, design, policy and geography studies, to provide a four-dimensional framework for analysing plans, projects and urban transformations. First, in their urban and architectural form; second, in their urban context; third, with reference to the network of agents involved; and fourth, with an awareness of the process of urban development over time. Drawing on a set of case studies in Europe, Asia and North America, the book provides concrete insights into six emerging issues: Spectacularization of the urban environment Commodification of design practice Personification of architectural projects Transnational circulation of master plans Transfer of building and megastructure projects and Homogenization of the urban landscape. The book gives in-depth evidence-based explanations of the transnational forms, networks and place-making processes in our cities, so that urban scholars and policy-makers can cope with their local implications and find better solutions.