- Sustainable Urban Environments, Urban And Regional Planning, Urban Planning, Urban Studies, Urbanization in Developing Areas, Strategic Planning, and 10 moreScenario planning, Global City Regions, Spatial planning, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Megaprojects, Resource Towns, Gulf Cities Urbanism, Urbanisms In the Global South, Urban Climate, and Asian Urbanismedit
- Associate professor in urban planning and designedit
The emergence of the climate change discourse in urban planning emphasises resilience as a key concept to deal with issues such as climate mitigation and adaptation, and urban health. What we have termed in this article 'green... more
The emergence of the climate change discourse in urban planning emphasises resilience as a key concept to deal with issues such as climate mitigation and adaptation, and urban health. What we have termed in this article 'green resilience', the coalescence of technological solutions and resilience thinking to solve cities' ecological issues, is constantly gaining traction in urban planning research. However, green resilience often fails to take into account the socio-political and spatial processes that pertain to the exploitation of land for urban development particularly in the global South. Based on our latest research on two urban megaprojects, in Johor-Singapore (Malaysia) and Doha (Qatar), in this article we build a critique of green resilience and urbanism by leveraging research in the fields of environmental humanities and urban planning.
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The energy performance of heritage buildings is attracting growing interest in research and practice. Accordingly, as shown by our literature review, increasing numbers of articles on energy-efficiency measures for heritage buildings are... more
The energy performance of heritage buildings is attracting growing interest in research and practice. Accordingly, as shown by our literature review, increasing numbers of articles on energy-efficiency measures for heritage buildings are being published in peer-reviewed journals. However, there is no overview of how energy efficiency and heritage conservation have been approached in the studies. To address this gap we categorized and assessed the identified studies in terms of two key elements of such investigations: energy analysis and analysis of cultural heritage values. Most of the studies evaluate and propose measures to reduce the operational energy use of single heritage buildings, and fewer have applied a broader system perspective. Moreover, the underlying notion of the buildings' cultural heritage values seems to have been derived mainly from international conventions and agreements, while potentially significant architectural, cultural and historical factors have been rarely discussed. Our findings highlight that, when considering energy improvements, cultural heritage values should be more explicitly articulated and analysed in relation to established conservation principles or methodologies. Besides further scientific study, this point to the need of designing best-practice approaches that allow transparency and knowledge sharing about the complex relationships between energy efficiency and heritage conservation of buildings.
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In this paper, we outline a framework to study what we have termed " Predatory Cities " , using the artificial offshore island of The Pearl in Qatar as a case study. By focusing on the nexus between urbanisation and resources, we will... more
In this paper, we outline a framework to study what we have termed " Predatory Cities " , using the artificial offshore island of The Pearl in Qatar as a case study. By focusing on the nexus between urbanisation and resources, we will argue that the master-planning of new cities in the booming global South implies both the access and cheap exploitation of a set of, on the one hand, intangible and, on the other hand, tangible resources that exceed the traditional boundaries. Our point of departure is that the cheap appropriation and exploitation of alien architecture images and resource networks for the making of new, master-planned cities has become a necessary, but highly unsustain-able, strategy to survive an increasingly competitive global offering of new destinations.
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Urban form can moderate the effects of weather on human movement. As such, the interrelationship between built environment, weather and human movement is a critical component of urban design. This paper explores the impacts of weather on... more
Urban form can moderate the effects of weather on human movement. As such, the interrelationship between built environment, weather and human movement is a critical component of urban design. This paper explores the impacts of weather on non-motorised human movement (soft-mobility). Throughout we look at soft-mobility from the citizen's perspective and highlight the barriers to soft-mobility in winter. The aim of this study was to test the traditional pallet of winter city urban design considerations. Those of solar-access, wind and snow management and explore other weather and terrain conditions that act as barriers to soft-mobility in winter. This study is based on survey responses from 344 citizens in the sub-arctic area of Sweden. Outcomes from the research highlight that rain, icy surfaces and darkness are today's most significant barriers to soft-mobility in winter. Results from this study link changing barriers to soft-mobility in winter with climate change. The paper concludes that future urban design and planning for winter cities needs to consider a wider pallet of weather conditions, especially rain.
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In the last two decades, resource cities of the Arab Gulf Region have been known to urban scholars and the general public for their extravagant, large-scale urban developments. These so-called megaprojects have allowed Gulf governments to... more
In the last two decades, resource cities of the Arab Gulf Region have been known to urban scholars and the general public for their extravagant, large-scale urban developments. These so-called megaprojects have allowed Gulf governments to both brand their nations globally and compete regionally and internationally with other global economic centers. However, as oil-rich Gulf countries have attempted to diversify their revenue stream away from fossil fuels, a new urban typology has emerged in their capitals to facilitate the transition to the knowledge-intensive economy. In continuity with previous research on megaprojects in the Gulf and Asian countries, we have called this new typology Knowledge Megaprojects (KMs). In this paper, by using as a reference point for comparisons the existing literature on knowledge developments in the West, we set to exemplify KMs in the Gulf region by analyzing the case of Education City—a large knowledge campus being developed by the Qatari government in Doha. One main result of this study is that KMs replicate the same shortcomings of other more mundane, extravagant megaprojects and thus are unlikely to provide the right urban setting to foster a sustainable transition to the post-carbon economy in the Gulf.
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The aim of this paper is to assess Malta’s government capacity to manage the possible environmental and social conflicts arising from the implementation of its renewable energy agenda to comply with EU’s2020 energy package. The country... more
The aim of this paper is to assess Malta’s government capacity to manage the possible environmental and social conflicts arising from the implementation of its renewable energy agenda to comply with EU’s2020 energy package. The country has targeted photovoltaic technologies to achieve a 10% of renewable energy share in the final consumption of energy by 2020. Malta is a popular tourist destination, it hosts three UNESCO world heritage sites, and it is one of the smallest, although densely populated, countries in the European Union. From the encroachment of PV parks with the existing urban/rural landscape, we found a number of issues worth to be investigated such as the location of solar power plants, participatory planning mechanisms, and aesthetic-design considerations for integrating photovoltaic into the existing urban fabric. The study is based on exploratory interviews with institutional stakeholders and document analysis.
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Over the last decade, governments of the small Arab emirates in the Gulf region have invested billions of dollars in an attempt to foster rapid growth in their capital cities: the results have been truly dramatic and many of the urban... more
Over the last decade, governments of the small Arab emirates in the Gulf region have invested billions of dollars in an attempt to foster rapid growth in their capital cities: the results have been truly dramatic and many of the urban centres in the region have been physically transformed. One interesting aspect of this growth is the fact that rhetoric about sustainability has apparently gained traction in the region, as evidenced by a plethora of urban megaprojects that are all carefully branded as green and sustainable. Urban developments in the Gulf have stimulated a spate of scholarly literature in a number of disciplines, and the debates are ongoing; this article will contribute to the discussion in several ways. It begins with a description of recent economic developments in the Gulf, and goes on to explore and expand the modern phenomenon of ‘instant urbanism’ as it applies to the region. We then compare two notable megaprojects in Doha and one in Abu Dhabi, closely analysing the rhetoric of sustainable urban development that surrounds each. We show the limitations of this rhetoric and uncover the covert aims of these projects, and suggest some of their unintended outcomes.
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As metropolitan areas around the world keep expanding, behind them, rural areas continue to be affected by greater rates of depopulation. This is not a new phenomenon: rural to urban migration has been reported in the developed world at... more
As metropolitan areas around the world keep expanding, behind them, rural areas continue to be affected by greater rates of depopulation. This is not a new phenomenon: rural to urban migration has been reported in the developed world at least from the period between the two world wars. However, recent rural depopulation trends have dramatically intensified in both the developed and the developing countries worldwide. In planning literature, greater emphasis is placed on the “urban–rural” divide, that is, people leaving the countryside to look for better opportunities in urban areas. However, a growing body of literature points to the fact that not all rural areas are declining at the same rate. Indeed, some rural towns have managed to retain population and even to grow. Therefore, at least in developed countries, an “intra-rural” divide notion is emerging. To exemplify this notion, we have studied rural towns in Southern Italy.
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We were very excited that our work on transdisciplinary urbanism inspired Brown et al. (2017) in their research project. After publishing " Transdisciplinary Urbanism: Three experiences from Europe and Canada " (Rizzo & Galanakis, 2015)... more
We were very excited that our work on transdisciplinary urbanism inspired Brown et al. (2017) in their research project. After publishing " Transdisciplinary Urbanism: Three experiences from Europe and Canada " (Rizzo & Galanakis, 2015) we hoped to instigate a debate on the current forms of urban studies. Overall, we found the article interesting, well argued, and thought provoking. We hope that there will be more projects by Northlake Collective, and we, for sure, will be happy to read about them. The following critique is not to discipline researchers for misinterpreting Transdisciplinary Urbanism (TU). On the contrary; Brown et al. (2017) demonstrate to us that TU can only take further an ongoing dialogue about conducting research by intervening in urban space. The points we make concern issues that many researchers face, particularly if we work with open and participatory methodological frameworks such as TU. We don't want to set the record straight; we wish to engage in the discussion.
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Interest in climate-sensitive urban design has grown in recent decades. Nevertheless, there are various difficulties associated with such an approach. One of these is the lack of simple comfort assessment tools. This article presents a... more
Interest in climate-sensitive urban design has grown in recent decades. Nevertheless, there are various difficulties associated with such an approach. One of these is the lack of simple comfort assessment tools. This article presents a method for microclimate assessment that is composed of a wind comfort analysis and a microclimate assessment based on measuring a combination of solar access and wind velocity. The study includes analysis of a proposed urban project situated in Kiruna, a Swedish town located in the subarctic region of the country. The results from the simulations were then overlaid to produce combined microclimate maps for three specific dates: winter solstice, spring equinox and summer solstice. The maps illustrate relative microclimate differences between areas in the proposed project based on combinations of wind/lee and sun/shadow conditions. The outcomes showed that only a small proportion of the area studied had favourable microclimate conditions at the winter solstice and spring equinox. The thermal comfort Index OUT_SET* was calculated for the summer solstice in the study area. Comparisons between the spatial distribution of OUT_SET* values and the microclimate assessment map showed a large degree of correlation. The method is intended to be a simple and representative evaluation of microclimate.
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The decreasing pace of urban development in economically-troubled Europe allows time for urban practitioners and actors to re-think planning action and its outcomes. In Canada where urban development seems unstoppable, contemplative... more
The decreasing pace of urban development in economically-troubled Europe allows time for urban practitioners and actors to re-think planning action and its outcomes. In Canada where urban development seems unstoppable, contemplative breaks are as important. From the rubbles of recent environmental and economic crises around the world, in this article we discuss the emergence of a new theoretical approach in urban design and planning that is at the intersection of Socio-Spatial Research, Complexity Theories of Cities, and Urban Activism: Transdisciplinary Urbanism. We deploy three relevant, research projects we have been engaged with to analyze issues, challenges and limitations of Transdisciplinary Urbanism. The time frame of these interventions spans almost a decade
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In this article we review past and current master planning efforts in Qatar, highlighting the country’s inability to manage rapid urban development. We will argue that the failure to implement sound urban planning in Qatar – and by... more
In this article we review past and current master planning efforts in Qatar, highlighting the country’s inability to manage rapid urban development. We will argue that the failure to implement sound urban planning in Qatar – and by extension, in the rest of the Arab Gulf Region – is the result of a detachment between the master planning phase – usually sub-contracted to external consultants that are insensitive to Gulf dynamics – and the implementation phase – usually carried out by incapable and redundant local government agencies – all in absence of a serious discussion of ongoing mega-projects.
A booming economy and a growing concern for sustainable development is driving many cities in the Asia-Pacific region to progressively redefine their social and physical landscape. A new Straits Transnational Urban Region is emerging as a... more
A booming economy and a growing concern for sustainable development is driving many cities in the Asia-Pacific region to progressively redefine their social and physical landscape. A new Straits Transnational Urban Region is emerging as a result of two distinct dynamics: (1) the spill-over of Singapore investments into its surrounding region, and (2) the daily transnational travel of workers, visitors and school children from Johor Bahru, Malaysia, into Singapore. At the same time, the city of Johor Bahru is influenced by Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, through political, administrative and government funding structures.
This study compares the linkages and exchanges between Johor Bahru and Singapore with those between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. It will investigate the prevalent and potential impacts on Johor Bahru brought about by both transnational urbanisation and local forces emanating from the urban hierarchy within the national system.
This study compares the linkages and exchanges between Johor Bahru and Singapore with those between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. It will investigate the prevalent and potential impacts on Johor Bahru brought about by both transnational urbanisation and local forces emanating from the urban hierarchy within the national system.
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Doha, capital city of the Arab emirate of Qatar, has grown from a small, port city to a bustling capital region with global ambitions. Today almost 85% of Qatar’s total population (1.4 out of 1.7 million inhabitants) live in metropolitan... more
Doha, capital city of the Arab emirate of Qatar, has grown from a small, port city to a bustling capital region with global ambitions. Today almost 85% of Qatar’s total population (1.4 out of 1.7 million inhabitants) live in metropolitan Doha, while before 1971 (pre-independence) its total population was 30 times less. Blessed with generous oil and particularly gas reserves, since the 1970s the country has undertaken urban mega-projects and expensive land reclamations which have increased the built up area in the capital region by 60 times. In this article we review Doha’s past and current urban development, highlighting Qatar’s different urban phases. Also, by comparing Doha to Dubai, we investigate the impacts of Qatar’s “mega-projects agenda” on two important government-led developments: Education City and Mshereib Redevelopment.
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EMAIL ME IF YOU NEED A COPY OF THIS ARTICLE AND DON'T HAVE ACCESS TO SCIENCE DIRECT. Since 2006, the Federal Malaysian government has developed the South-Johor Economic Region as a major corridor for economic development. A vision,... more
EMAIL ME IF YOU NEED A COPY OF THIS ARTICLE AND DON'T HAVE ACCESS TO SCIENCE DIRECT.
Since 2006, the Federal Malaysian government has developed the South-Johor Economic Region as a major corridor for economic development. A vision, known as Iskandar Malaysia, has been facilitated through a Comprehensive Development Plan underpinning strategies to boost the physical and economic development of the Johor Bahru metropolitan area. The latter borders Singapore; the two cities, separated by a one km. sea channel, are linked by two bridges. Thousands of people cross the Johor Straits to enjoy better wages (in Singapore) and cheap goods (in Malaysia). The paper provides an analysis of the Iskandar Malaysia Vision. A key message is the need for future plans to consider both cities, Johor Bahru and Singapore, as part of an emerging transnational urban region.
Since 2006, the Federal Malaysian government has developed the South-Johor Economic Region as a major corridor for economic development. A vision, known as Iskandar Malaysia, has been facilitated through a Comprehensive Development Plan underpinning strategies to boost the physical and economic development of the Johor Bahru metropolitan area. The latter borders Singapore; the two cities, separated by a one km. sea channel, are linked by two bridges. Thousands of people cross the Johor Straits to enjoy better wages (in Singapore) and cheap goods (in Malaysia). The paper provides an analysis of the Iskandar Malaysia Vision. A key message is the need for future plans to consider both cities, Johor Bahru and Singapore, as part of an emerging transnational urban region.
Research Interests:
Between Singapore and Johor Bahru (JB) about 30,000–50,000 people cross the Johor Strait during weekdays to enjoy better wages in Singapore; vice versa during the weekends Singaporeans enjoy the high purchasing value of the Singaporean... more
Between Singapore and Johor Bahru (JB) about 30,000–50,000 people cross the Johor Strait during weekdays to enjoy better wages in Singapore; vice versa during the weekends Singaporeans enjoy the high purchasing value of the Singaporean dollar over Malaysian goods and entertainment. These cross-border dynamics affect many strata of the local social geography and, therefore, the economic dynamics of this region. Johor–Singapore is indeed a rapidly emerging transnational urban region in Southeast Asia. Recent plans are being implemented in Johor to move up the value chain from the industrial to the knowledge sector. Iskandar Malaysia is a vision which aims to reinvent JB as a centre for leisure, high-tech production and the knowledge industry. But to what extent can urban planning contribute to achieving at least part of such targets is the focus of this article, set in the frame of a wider transnational urban region? With the intensification of planned gated communities, extensive land privatization and increasing infrastructure investment to support a car-based urban development, the risk for JB is to move away from its original, noble purposes. To unfold the transnational urban issues of this region, we propose investigating its transit space. In a comparative manner, in this article we show how problems such as perceived lack of safety, ineffective public transport, splintered urban developments, scarce environmental sustainability and extreme privatization of land and services are all aspects which can be better managed by planning a good transit space. Last but not the least, improving Malaysian transit space will facilitate intercultural dialogue among the different, Malaysian ethnic groups in the spirit of the recent government's motto of ‘1Malaysia’.
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In this chapter, after reviewing the intertwined effects of geopolitical aspirations and the rapid urbanization of Gulf capitals, I will focus on Qatar Foundation’s Education City campus to analyse processes and politics of Knowledge... more
In this chapter, after reviewing the intertwined effects of geopolitical aspirations and the rapid urbanization of Gulf capitals, I will focus on Qatar Foundation’s Education City campus to analyse processes and politics of Knowledge Megaprojects in resource-rich countries of the Arab Gulf Region. I argue that while Education City is a new type of Knowledge Megaproject, in that it aims to be a knowledge hub that is better connected with other urban localities around the world to produce knowledge and innovation (Ascher 1995, Castells 1996), its outcomes are similar to those of other consumption megaprojects in the Gulf, i.e. social displacement, spatial seg- regation, and the privatization of urban space (Graham and Marvin 2001, Gellert and Lynch 2003, Bagaeen 2007).
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Please cite this article in press as: RIZZO, A., ZANCAN, R. (2007) Doppelgänger under the volcano: Le speranze di un complesso multifunzionale nel Meridione. In Amendola G., Mello P., Ricci M. - Eds. - (2007) La civiltà dei superluoghi:... more
Please cite this article in press as: RIZZO, A., ZANCAN, R. (2007) Doppelgänger under the volcano: Le speranze di un complesso multifunzionale nel Meridione. In Amendola G., Mello P., Ricci M. - Eds. - (2007) La civiltà dei superluoghi: notizie dalla metropoli quotidiana, Damiani Editore, Bologna, pp. 100-105. ISBN: 978-88-6208-008-8
Essere sensibili a tutto ciò che vi è di affine nel mondo non si risolve nell’affermazione che le cose sono tecnicizzate, razionalizzate e il particolare oggi si trova oramai solo nelle sfumature, ma, come scrisse Walter Benjamin, “nel vedere unicamente sfumature e comprendere che queste, tuttavia, sono tutte uguali”. In altre parole “attingere con il cucchiaio l’uguale dalla realtà” non vuol dire cogliere soltanto la somiglianza assoluta di una cosa con l’altra, ma avvisare la possibilità che un’unica cosa possa esistere simultaneamente in più luoghi. È così che chiunque voglia osservare Etnapolis, il più grande centro commerciale del Meridione, deve sforzarsi di imparare a vivere tutte le conseguenze del potere sconosciuto di un Doppelgänger, un doppio perturbante, che inquieta e sovverte la presunta unicità del reale.
Essere sensibili a tutto ciò che vi è di affine nel mondo non si risolve nell’affermazione che le cose sono tecnicizzate, razionalizzate e il particolare oggi si trova oramai solo nelle sfumature, ma, come scrisse Walter Benjamin, “nel vedere unicamente sfumature e comprendere che queste, tuttavia, sono tutte uguali”. In altre parole “attingere con il cucchiaio l’uguale dalla realtà” non vuol dire cogliere soltanto la somiglianza assoluta di una cosa con l’altra, ma avvisare la possibilità che un’unica cosa possa esistere simultaneamente in più luoghi. È così che chiunque voglia osservare Etnapolis, il più grande centro commerciale del Meridione, deve sforzarsi di imparare a vivere tutte le conseguenze del potere sconosciuto di un Doppelgänger, un doppio perturbante, che inquieta e sovverte la presunta unicità del reale.
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Please cite this article in press as: LA GRECA, P., MARTINICO, F., OCCHIPINTI, S., RIZZO, A. (2006). The long and winding road. Peripheries in a Medium Sized City of Southern Italy. In LA GRECA P. & MEREY, Z. (Eds.) Cities Between... more
Please cite this article in press as: LA GRECA, P., MARTINICO, F., OCCHIPINTI, S., RIZZO, A. (2006). The long and winding road. Peripheries in a Medium Sized City of Southern Italy. In LA GRECA P. & MEREY, Z. (Eds.) Cities Between Integration and Disintegration, Opportunities and Challenges. ISOCARP Review 02, 196-215. ISBN: 90-755-24-47-1
Contemporary cities are often the outcome of an aggregation of different parts grown in an informal way. In these systems sometimes the expression ‘periphery’ looses its original
meaning of outwards bounds distinguished from the centre (De Carlo 1993). The same happens in Catania, a medium size city of southern Italy where the settlement system is characterized by a complex combination of marginal neighbourhoods intertwined with richer and more vital ones. This is particularly true in transition areas between the main municipality and the surrounding towns, a quite common phenomenon in large conurbations of western countries. However, here another occurrence parallels this one, the presence of large historic
neighbourhoods that show characters of economic, social and functional marginalization where illegal activities are concentrated as well as urban blight. Looking more in depth, these areas, that can be defined “at risk”, represent a highly heterogynous set as far their formation process and settlement pattern are concerned. Their other relevant feature is the strong
resistance to change both from physical and social points of view, even if specific actions have been taken to improve or upgrade them.
Contemporary cities are often the outcome of an aggregation of different parts grown in an informal way. In these systems sometimes the expression ‘periphery’ looses its original
meaning of outwards bounds distinguished from the centre (De Carlo 1993). The same happens in Catania, a medium size city of southern Italy where the settlement system is characterized by a complex combination of marginal neighbourhoods intertwined with richer and more vital ones. This is particularly true in transition areas between the main municipality and the surrounding towns, a quite common phenomenon in large conurbations of western countries. However, here another occurrence parallels this one, the presence of large historic
neighbourhoods that show characters of economic, social and functional marginalization where illegal activities are concentrated as well as urban blight. Looking more in depth, these areas, that can be defined “at risk”, represent a highly heterogynous set as far their formation process and settlement pattern are concerned. Their other relevant feature is the strong
resistance to change both from physical and social points of view, even if specific actions have been taken to improve or upgrade them.
Research Interests:
Please cite this article in press as: RIZZO, A. (2009). The Multiple City. Tallinn as playground to test new paradigms in urban studies. In Ilmavirta, T. (Ed.), Regenerating Urban Core. Publication of the YTK/IFHP Urban Planning and... more
Please cite this article in press as: RIZZO, A. (2009). The Multiple City. Tallinn as playground to test new paradigms in urban studies. In Ilmavirta, T. (Ed.), Regenerating Urban Core. Publication of the YTK/IFHP Urban Planning and Design Summer School. Espoo, Finland: C-series of CURS, Helsinki University of Technology, 44-57. ISBN: 978-951-22-9979-9
"Tallinn, the capital of Estonia is the growing identity of the ‘New European East’. Cooperation between Helsinki and Tallinn can be traced back to the early last century and its consequences are still visible in the urban structure of both cities. Cooperation here is based on informal and flexible relations between specific actors, forming bottom up connections rather than the conventional top-down associations. This ongoing regime defines a complex area without clear borders, rather than a traditional stable geographical unit.
At the same time, after the independence of Estonia (1991) citizenship was granted only to those who had ancestors prior to Soviet occupation. Although a minority were able to obtain Estonian citizenship, most of the Russian Speaking Population was cut-off from this integration process. Despite the presence of these enclave formations in the city, it remains unconnected on the surface to ethnical segregation or to the Diaspora between the Russian and Estonian ethnic groups.
The aim of this paper is to describe the current urban and social situation in Tallinn. We will show that beside recognition of Tallinn’s urban fragmentation it is possible to point out the emergence of a new territory, which is both an urban and social entity. From this research we tried to extract a new horizon of reference in the field of urban studies which will be briefly highlighted."
"Tallinn, the capital of Estonia is the growing identity of the ‘New European East’. Cooperation between Helsinki and Tallinn can be traced back to the early last century and its consequences are still visible in the urban structure of both cities. Cooperation here is based on informal and flexible relations between specific actors, forming bottom up connections rather than the conventional top-down associations. This ongoing regime defines a complex area without clear borders, rather than a traditional stable geographical unit.
At the same time, after the independence of Estonia (1991) citizenship was granted only to those who had ancestors prior to Soviet occupation. Although a minority were able to obtain Estonian citizenship, most of the Russian Speaking Population was cut-off from this integration process. Despite the presence of these enclave formations in the city, it remains unconnected on the surface to ethnical segregation or to the Diaspora between the Russian and Estonian ethnic groups.
The aim of this paper is to describe the current urban and social situation in Tallinn. We will show that beside recognition of Tallinn’s urban fragmentation it is possible to point out the emergence of a new territory, which is both an urban and social entity. From this research we tried to extract a new horizon of reference in the field of urban studies which will be briefly highlighted."
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"The idea of Helsinki-Tallinn Region (HTR) as a commonly branded region is in one sense an obvious and natural extension of the close relationship between Tallinn an Helsinki. Since Estonia’s independence, this connection has... more
"The idea of Helsinki-Tallinn Region (HTR) as a commonly
branded region is in one sense an obvious
and natural extension of the close relationship
between Tallinn an Helsinki.
Since Estonia’s independence, this connection
has expanded rapidly. Travel between these
two centres accounts for the most international
traffic. Region makers such as Euregio and Finpro
have explored a number of projects to expand
this relationship in order to establish a more systematic
and integrated connection.
The current connection through ferries does not
adequately suit the desired speed and volume
of traffic in goods and people desired. Therefore,
the idea of a bridge -or more realistically a tunnel-
has been put forward on several occasions.
The idea of a tunnel is clearly influenced by the
success of the Oresund Region, and with pressure
/ encouragement from larger regional organizations
such as the European Union.
Several logistical obstacles have so far prevented
this vision from becoming a reality such as
geography, political will, discrepencies, and
local resistance / transcendence."
branded region is in one sense an obvious
and natural extension of the close relationship
between Tallinn an Helsinki.
Since Estonia’s independence, this connection
has expanded rapidly. Travel between these
two centres accounts for the most international
traffic. Region makers such as Euregio and Finpro
have explored a number of projects to expand
this relationship in order to establish a more systematic
and integrated connection.
The current connection through ferries does not
adequately suit the desired speed and volume
of traffic in goods and people desired. Therefore,
the idea of a bridge -or more realistically a tunnel-
has been put forward on several occasions.
The idea of a tunnel is clearly influenced by the
success of the Oresund Region, and with pressure
/ encouragement from larger regional organizations
such as the European Union.
Several logistical obstacles have so far prevented
this vision from becoming a reality such as
geography, political will, discrepencies, and
local resistance / transcendence."
Research Interests:
Attraverso una metodologia ibrida che utilizza descrizione, analisi quantitativa e rappresentazione cartografica si è voluto raccontare la storia dellentroterra nel Mezzogiorno d'Italia considerando la Sicilia come caso di studio ed... more
Attraverso una metodologia ibrida che utilizza descrizione, analisi quantitativa e rappresentazione cartografica si è voluto raccontare la storia dellentroterra nel Mezzogiorno d'Italia considerando la Sicilia come caso di studio ed avendo per obiettivo il tentativo di proporre nuove strade per lo sviluppo di questa parte del territorio italiano.
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Nel 1990 il parlamento italiano vara la prima norma in materia di aree metropolitane (L.142/90). Ancor prima la Regione Siciliana introduce la problematica metropolitana con la L.R. 9/86. Obiettivo della presente tesi di laurea è di... more
Nel 1990 il parlamento italiano vara la prima norma in materia di aree metropolitane (L.142/90). Ancor prima la Regione Siciliana introduce la problematica metropolitana con la L.R. 9/86. Obiettivo della presente tesi di laurea è di proporre una metodologia di analisi che possa essere applicata anche ad altre aree metropolitane Italiane per il governo sostenibile del territorio. Il volume si compone di una analisi delle aree metropolitane a scala nazionale e regionale per poi approfondire la metodologia proposta nell'area metropolitana catanese.
A survey of recent projects in Qatar reveals a particular brand of "instant urbanism": while by 2022 more luxury hotels will be opened to cater for Westerns and westernised Arabs who can afford to enjoy exclusive services, issues such as... more
A survey of recent projects in Qatar reveals a particular brand of "instant urbanism": while by 2022 more luxury hotels will be opened to cater for Westerns and westernised Arabs who can afford to enjoy exclusive services, issues such as spatial segregation, sustainable urban development, and affordable housing remain unsolved.
Research Interests:
Johor Bahru (JB) is a mid-size metropolis of about 1,7 million inhabitants (in 2010) located in the southern tip of peninsular Malaysia. It sits between two global cities: Kuala Lumpur (6 m metro inhab.) and Singapore (5,4 million... more
Johor Bahru (JB) is a mid-size metropolis of about 1,7 million inhabitants (in 2010) located in the southern tip of peninsular Malaysia. It sits between two global cities: Kuala Lumpur (6 m metro inhab.) and Singapore (5,4 million inhab.) . Until 1957, both Malaysia and the city-state of Singapore were under the control of the British Empire which controlled the profitable trade route between China and Europe. While, on the one hand, JB is intrinsically connected with its powerful neighbor, Singapore, on the other hand, given the centralized nature of the Malaysian state, it depends on Kuala Lumpur (KL) for leadership and financial resources. Moreover, the three cities are linked together by a network of infrastructures, services, and small economic centres that have led to theorize about the emergence of a Straits Megacity Region (figure 1).
The SMR is a 300 km-long transnational, economic corridor that stretches North-South in the Malaysian peninsula for a total population of over 15 million inhabitants and a total GDP output of about US$ 250 billion - more than double of that of Singapore and equal to that of Malaysia (in 2010). Until recently, JB was more of a sprawling periphery for Singapore, being both a gateway for cheap goods and affordable living for the Singaporean middle-class and a convenient location for thousands of Malaysians working for better wages in the city-state. However, with the turn of the XXI century, Malaysia has set a grand vision, named Iskandar Malaysia, to transform this border city (JB) into a major hub in South-East Asia. But, will Iskandar Malaysia be able to counter segregation and “splintering urbanization” in JB? In this short essay I will advocate the potential of studying Johor’s “transit space” to deliver a more sustainable and equitable urban development in the region.
The SMR is a 300 km-long transnational, economic corridor that stretches North-South in the Malaysian peninsula for a total population of over 15 million inhabitants and a total GDP output of about US$ 250 billion - more than double of that of Singapore and equal to that of Malaysia (in 2010). Until recently, JB was more of a sprawling periphery for Singapore, being both a gateway for cheap goods and affordable living for the Singaporean middle-class and a convenient location for thousands of Malaysians working for better wages in the city-state. However, with the turn of the XXI century, Malaysia has set a grand vision, named Iskandar Malaysia, to transform this border city (JB) into a major hub in South-East Asia. But, will Iskandar Malaysia be able to counter segregation and “splintering urbanization” in JB? In this short essay I will advocate the potential of studying Johor’s “transit space” to deliver a more sustainable and equitable urban development in the region.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Qatar has recently come to the attention of the media and the international community for its rising geopolitical importance. Despite its limited size, a growing number of international companies are opening regional offices in Doha,... more
Qatar has recently come to the attention of the media and the international community for its rising geopolitical importance. Despite its limited size, a growing number of international companies are opening regional offices in Doha, Qatar’s capital city, which is in turn reshaping its cityscape with ambitious public funded mega-projects (for the 2022 FIFA world cup, Olympics, etc.). While this mega-project agenda has brought new useful infrastructures to cater for the country’s ambitious goals, at the same time, it has been responsible for important physical and social fractures within the city. However, while on the one hand Doha’s mega-projects contribute to further urban fragmentation in Qatar they also show better connections with other localities worldwide....
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Posta nel quadrante sud-orientale siciliano, la città-regione Messina-Catania-Siracusa-Ragusa è un’agglomerazione discontinua di oltre due milioni di abitanti che si allunga tra lo Stretto e le ultime propaggini dell’altipiano ibleo. Con... more
Posta nel quadrante sud-orientale siciliano, la città-regione Messina-Catania-Siracusa-Ragusa è un’agglomerazione discontinua di oltre due milioni di abitanti che si allunga tra lo Stretto e le ultime propaggini dell’altipiano ibleo. Con molta probabilità il più grande insieme urbano nell’area centrale del basso Mediterraneo, i limiti e l’effettiva estensione del quale diventano comprensibili solo se posti a confronto con le conurbazioni delle coste iberico-francesi e con le città-capitali di levante (Atene, Istanbul, Il Cairo).
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In 2007/2008, the Border Cities Kolleg, facilitated by the Germany-based Bauhaus Dessau Foundation, brought together an international group of young planners, architects, artists and urbanists to explore the complex dynamics of... more
In 2007/2008, the Border Cities Kolleg, facilitated by the Germany-based Bauhaus Dessau Foundation, brought together an international group of young planners, architects, artists and urbanists to explore the complex dynamics of trans-national urbanism in the Baltic Sea Region. Within this framework our group came together to consider the cities of Helsinki and Tallinn as a case of EU spatial policy implementation. Region makers such as EUREGIO view the two cities as part of an emerging European Region, one that opens an opportunity to enhance economic and administrative capacities, as well as to expand transportation and distribution networks. These in turn form or enhance a number of interweaving bonds. The focus of our group research was to see how far this notion of region building has progressed, compared with past and present common identity building processes.
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Research Interests:
Una delle città più dinamiche degli ultimi anni è la capitale di un piccolo/grande Paese nord-europeo: Helsinki. Il Paese in questione è ovviamente la Finlandia che con i suoi oltre 337 Kmq di superficie e gli appena 5,2 milioni di... more
Una delle città più dinamiche degli ultimi anni è la capitale di un piccolo/grande Paese nord-europeo: Helsinki. Il Paese in questione è ovviamente la Finlandia che con i suoi oltre 337 Kmq di superficie e gli appena 5,2 milioni di abitanti è la nazione meno densa della UE. Confinate ad est con la Russia e a nord-ovest con la Svezia, la Finlandia costituisce per certi versi una sorta di “penisola” (la fennoscandia), all’interno del più grande sistema peninsulare scandinavo, che si protende dall’estremità nord del golfo di Botnia verso il centro del mar Baltico. Un Mare Nostrum Balticum, come gli svedesi lo definivano nel XVI secolo, d’importanza cruciale per gli equilibri geopolitici del continente europeo, che qui si incontra con quello asiatico, per una popolazione complessiva di almeno 50 milioni di abitanti uniti da un unico credo religioso, quello cristiano, e tre confessioni quasi egualmente rappresentate: Luterana, Cattolica e Ortodossa.
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Prof. Agatino Rizzo from Luleå University of Technology, Sweden, was recently in Malta to interview institutional stakeholders to explore the government’s ambitions in the implementation of renewable energy projects in Malta.....
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"Turku is Finland's second most important city by number of inhabitants and historical background. Ancient capital of the Finnish region under Swedish rule, Turku maintains a strong influence in the Scandinavian culture life especially... more
"Turku is Finland's second most important city by number of inhabitants and historical background. Ancient capital of the Finnish region under Swedish rule, Turku maintains a strong influence in the Scandinavian culture life especially after its nominations as European Capital of Culture 2011 together with Tallinn in Estonia.
In this context, Turku has invested 14 million of euros in a new main library..."
In this context, Turku has invested 14 million of euros in a new main library..."
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Cosa sia l'entroterra siciliano oggi è un gran mistero. Frutto di logiche politico-economiche di antica data, ai giorni nostri il cosiddetto "Centro di Sicilia" sembra più un bel paesaggio da mettere in cartolina, o da guardare da... more
Cosa sia l'entroterra siciliano oggi è un gran mistero. Frutto di logiche politico-economiche di antica data, ai giorni nostri il cosiddetto "Centro di Sicilia" sembra più un bel paesaggio da mettere in cartolina, o da guardare da lontano, che un nodo centrale della pianificazione dello sviluppo regionale...
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Please cite this article in press as: RIZZO, A. (2009). ‘P2PFOUND CITIES’. Project Proposal for the Reconstruction and the Preservation of Abruzzo. P2P Foundation. Retrieved from:... more
Please cite this article in press as: RIZZO, A. (2009). ‘P2PFOUND CITIES’. Project Proposal for the Reconstruction and the Preservation of Abruzzo. P2P Foundation. Retrieved from: http://blog.p2pfoundation.net/p2pfound-cities-project-proposal-for-the-reconstruction-and-the-preservation-of-abruzzo/2009/12/04
We present in this proposal a scheme for efficient transitional housing for the communities of Abruzzo accounting for the need to maintain the social cohesion of original communities under reconstruction, given the protracted periods of time this may incur with the restoration of the traditional regional forms of architecture which are themselves both a source of cultural identity and economic benefit.
We present in this proposal a scheme for efficient transitional housing for the communities of Abruzzo accounting for the need to maintain the social cohesion of original communities under reconstruction, given the protracted periods of time this may incur with the restoration of the traditional regional forms of architecture which are themselves both a source of cultural identity and economic benefit.
Research Interests: Abruzzo and P2p Urbanism
Research Interests:
Tallinn is the beautiful medieval, capital city of Estonia, one of the smallest countries, population wise, in European Union. Since 1991, after 50 years of soviet occupation, Estonia has registered a rapid economic acceleration which has... more
Tallinn is the beautiful medieval, capital city of Estonia, one of the smallest countries, population wise, in European Union. Since 1991, after 50 years of soviet occupation, Estonia has registered a rapid economic acceleration which has dramatically redesigned the skyline of Tallinn. A new modern city made of ambitious skyscrapers is today rivaling side-by-side with the hanseatic towers around Tompea Hill – the latter a UNESCO site since 1997...
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""In the last 15 years Helsinki has expanded greatly toward North, say Lahti or Tampere, and the City has supported this trend by investing many resources in important infrastructure junctures as well as public transportation facilities.... more
""In the last 15 years Helsinki has expanded greatly toward North, say Lahti or Tampere, and the City has supported this trend by investing many resources in important infrastructure junctures as well as public transportation facilities. Travelling by bus in Helsinki is therefore a high constructive practice for any architect because only in this way she/he can appreciate the quality of Finnish intervention when asked to plan high-sustainable-low-dense settlements.
Talking about Finnish suburbs, there are two ways of develop them: a modern one which consist in subtracting space to the forest, “excavating” portion of forest to let space for urban features (streets, housing, squares, stations, etc.), and a second - more traditional – one: the suburb growth into the forest, houses follow depressions or hills with the minimum impact to the natural surroundings.""
Talking about Finnish suburbs, there are two ways of develop them: a modern one which consist in subtracting space to the forest, “excavating” portion of forest to let space for urban features (streets, housing, squares, stations, etc.), and a second - more traditional – one: the suburb growth into the forest, houses follow depressions or hills with the minimum impact to the natural surroundings.""
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Natural resources (minerals, petrol, wind, solar, forest, etc.) are at the basis of our urban economies. For example, many of the products we use in our everyday lives (e.g., car, mobile phone, etc.) are built or need for their... more
Natural resources (minerals, petrol, wind, solar, forest, etc.) are at the basis of our urban economies. For example, many of the products we use in our everyday lives (e.g., car, mobile phone, etc.) are built or need for their functioning natural resources (e.g., oil/energy, iron, copper, gold, etc.). At the same time, the extraction and transformation of natural resources in products have distinctive physical, ecological, and social impacts in cities worldwide. For instance, the extraction, distribution, processing of natural resources entail the construction of infrastructures (roads, factories, power plants, etc.), housing and supporting functions that creates the basis for urbanization. However, under a market-led economic regime, these infrastructure spaces (or entire towns!), sometimes, need to discarded because not useful to the extraction economies any longer. Resource-extraction urbanism is a waste-generating, primitive (although pervasive) model that evolves at the planetary scale with centres and peripheries that have several levels of inter-connections. At the same time, trends such as decentralization and miniaturization of renewable resource generation and circular economies promise to disrupt the current resource-extraction paradigm. We think that cities need to transition from the primitive, resource-extraction paradigm to a more resilient, resource-integrate urban nexus. We propose a nexus in which decentralized, circular, micro (energy and resource) systems are intimately integrated with humankind and its living space at multiple scales (from the building to the transnational scale). From a spatial point of view, this nexus leads to two main challenges: the need of a new urban aesthetics that can help deliver a resource-integrated urban living; and, the need to regenerate primitive resource-extraction spaces and infrastructures. In my talk, I will then show some experiences in which, under the umbrella of resource-integrated urbanism, my group and I have dealt with the two above challenges. The first project, Energy-Form, deals with the integration of decentralized, renewable energy in the everyday working environment. In this project, we deployed design thinking and participatory techniques to co-create, together with end users and stakeholders, " energy landscapes ". In the second project, MIN-SPIRE, we tackle the issue of extractive spaces and " resource waste " by deploying design and planning as a catalyst for local development. Finally, in the project Food on the Roof, we deploy big data analysis techniques and interdisciplinary thinking to capitalize on waste energy and available space to grow food in cities across seasons.
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The “Green” rhetoric is constantly gaining traction in urban planning research. In line with anthropocenic thinking, the study of green cities and infrastructures has promised a straightforward recipe to solve many urban issues (e.g.,... more
The “Green” rhetoric is constantly gaining traction in urban planning research. In line with anthropocenic thinking, the study of green cities and infrastructures has promised a straightforward recipe to solve many urban issues (e.g., climate mitigation and resilience, urban health, etc.). However, green city/infrastructure proponents, while emphasizing the positive environmental, economic, and health aspects of these projects, often neglect important socio-political and spatial considerations that are crucial for understanding the dramatic transformation of non-urbanized and peri-urban territories. Based on my latest research on urban megaprojects in Johor, Malaysia, and Doha, Qatar, in this paper I will deploy a critical, comparative approach to inform a critique of both the green planning practice and some western based urban theories that have been used to explain development in the South.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
For decades alternative (to carbon) sources of energy in Sweden have been linked to hydro- and nuclear-power. However, this is set to change as the new Swedish government agenda has put an extraordinary emphasis on renewables. The... more
For decades alternative (to carbon) sources of energy in Sweden have been linked to hydro- and nuclear-power. However, this is set to change as the new Swedish government agenda has put an extraordinary emphasis on renewables. The implementation of renewables in Sweden poses several challenges. Three main aspects deter local communities from embracing large renewable projects: Noise, the visual impact, and visual discomfort (reflection). Sweden has a long tradition of stakeholder engagement in state-funded projects in the form of participatory meetings and written feedbacks. However, other participatory techniques are less established. Since 2014, LTU has been engaged in a research project dealing with energy, landscape, art, and participation in LTU campus in Piteå, Norrbotten. The aim of this paper is to discuss this interdisciplinary project and report its results. The main finding of this research is that the use of particpatory design in energy projects such as a smart campus is an important factor to foster collaboration and understanding between end users and stakeholders.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
According to recent economic statistics, the Arab Gulf Region is one of the fastest economies in the world. Amongst these countries, Qatar is gaining increasing attention from the media and the international community for its growing... more
According to recent economic statistics, the Arab Gulf Region is one of the fastest economies in the world. Amongst these countries, Qatar is gaining increasing attention from the media and the international community for its growing economic and geopolitical relevance. As result of these latter driving forces and public funded mega-projects, urban development in Doha is booming. However, the side effect of this so-called “instant urbanism” has been more local, urban fragmentation. In this paper by analysing with a qualitative approach Qatar Foundation’s Education City, we argue that while this mega-project is physically disconnected from the rest of the city, it exchanges flows of information and people with other urban localities around the world to produce knowledge and innovation in Qatar
This study will explore linkages and exchanges between Johor Bahru and Singapore in comparison to those between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. It will investigate prevalent and potential impacts of transnational urbanisation as well as... more
This study will explore linkages and exchanges between Johor Bahru and Singapore in comparison to those between Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. It will investigate prevalent and potential impacts of transnational urbanisation as well as those emanating from the urban hierarchy within the national system on Johor Bahru. It will focus on the exploitation and/or waste of potential economic and social benefits from transnational regional exchanges and globalisation
"Like all other Gulf nations, Qatar is undergoing a spectacular economic, social and urban change. This multi-faceted metamorphosis is projecting Qatar’s capital city, Doha, to be among the leading global city-regions in the Gulf. At the... more
"Like all other Gulf nations, Qatar is undergoing a spectacular economic, social and urban change. This multi-faceted metamorphosis is projecting Qatar’s capital city, Doha, to be among the leading global city-regions in the Gulf. At the same time, the current situation in Bahrain and other MEA countries teach us that there is a need to allow local social networks to participate in a country’s global aspirations, thus fostering long-term political stability. In physical terms this means that social infrastructures capable of both valorising local social-capital and propelling knowledge-based economy must be delivered in order to achieve sustainable economic growth. By reviewing and comparing current and future real estate projects in Qatar and abroad, Dr Rizzo proposes a practical framework to help to deliver urban real estate strategies for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Arab world.
• Examining the role of world class social infrastructures in propelling a knowledge-based economy
• Revealing Qatar’s position among the Gulf’s global city-regions and pinpointing urban development milestones for long term success
• Unveiling tools to valorise diversity, creativity and social links for the benefit of local/global economies"
• Examining the role of world class social infrastructures in propelling a knowledge-based economy
• Revealing Qatar’s position among the Gulf’s global city-regions and pinpointing urban development milestones for long term success
• Unveiling tools to valorise diversity, creativity and social links for the benefit of local/global economies"
Like all other Gulf nations, Qatar is undergoing a spectacular economic, social and urban change. This multi-faceted metamorphosis is projecting Qatar’s capital city, Doha, to be among the leading global city-regions in the Gulf. At the... more
Like all other Gulf nations, Qatar is undergoing a spectacular economic, social and urban change. This multi-faceted metamorphosis is projecting Qatar’s capital city, Doha, to be among the leading global city-regions in the Gulf. At the same time, the current situation in Bahrain and other MEA countries teach us that there is a need to allow local social networks to participate in a country’s global aspirations, thus fostering long-term political stability. In physical terms this means that social infrastructures capable of both valorising local social-capital and propelling knowledge-based economy must be delivered in order to achieve sustainable economic growth.
The informational revolution consolidating from the 90’s has brought new concepts such as peer-to-peer, open source, free software, copyleft and so forth. In the last decade these concepts are redesigning social relations, advocating for... more
The informational revolution consolidating from the 90’s has brought new concepts such as peer-to-peer, open source, free software, copyleft and so forth. In the last decade these concepts are redesigning social relations, advocating for the direct involvement of people in decision making, production, and management at any scale. Thanks to the efforts of the P2P foundation ( see http://p2pfoundation.net/) and its main driver, Michel Bauwens a Belgian philosopher based in Thailand , peer-to-peer (P2P) philosophy has been discussed on the web at any significant scale - from P2P architecture to P2P Warfare (see http://blog.p2pfoundation.net/).
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia is announcing the UTM2010 Summer School in Urban and Regional Planning "Planning in Developing Metropolitan Regions". It will be held from July 18th till July 31st, 2010 in Johor Bahru, Johore,... more
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia is announcing the UTM2010 Summer School in Urban and Regional Planning "Planning in Developing Metropolitan Regions". It will be held from July 18th till July 31st, 2010 in Johor Bahru, Johore, Malaysia.
The summer school features advanced courses for graduate students and young researchers in the field of urban planning, metropolitan planning, and urban and transnational studies.
It consists of 2 weeks on site workshop with excursions in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Iskandar Malaysia Corridor. One online preparation week will precede the event.
The program aims to equip participants with urban management and planning knowledge to understand the complex metropolitan planning issues in fast developing countries. This will also help them to apply the knowledge in design and project planning of neighborhood or a city.
The summer school is organized by UTM in collaboration with Curtin University. Decisions for admission are made on a case by case and first come first served bases. We have applicants from all over the world. Therefore the earlier you apply the better.
The summer school features advanced courses for graduate students and young researchers in the field of urban planning, metropolitan planning, and urban and transnational studies.
It consists of 2 weeks on site workshop with excursions in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Iskandar Malaysia Corridor. One online preparation week will precede the event.
The program aims to equip participants with urban management and planning knowledge to understand the complex metropolitan planning issues in fast developing countries. This will also help them to apply the knowledge in design and project planning of neighborhood or a city.
The summer school is organized by UTM in collaboration with Curtin University. Decisions for admission are made on a case by case and first come first served bases. We have applicants from all over the world. Therefore the earlier you apply the better.