Designing Cities and the Academy

Abstract

Urban design is centrally about imagining a future for the built environment of a city. But design methods can also help shape institutions, which structure life as powerfully as blocks and streets. In this article, the author chronicles a career spent designing places and academic programs in planning schools. Reconnecting planning practice with the academy is an essential strategy for creating more grounded knowledge and theories about urban design. Learning occurs largely through persuasive examples and by reflecting on their successes and failures. Design is also a collaborative act, developing consensus around a vision that inspires groups to act. New challenges face today's educators and practitioners, including the knowledge needed to practice internationally and the need to expand planning horizons to master development practices. There is also much to be gained by working across disciplinary lines, and by looking beyond national boundaries.

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