Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Urban Research and Development Center (URDC) Director Prof. Dr. Şebnem Hoşkara released a statement on 7 October – World Habitat Day and World Architecture Day, underscoring the rising generation, participation and urban design. The statement released by Prof. Dr. Hoşkara is as follows:
“The Word Architecture Day initiated in 1985 by the International Union of Architects (UIA), is annually observed on the first Monday of the month of October. This day coincides with the United Nations’ World Habitat Day, harmonizing the efforts of architecture community with the global urban development goals. The theme for the 2024 World Architecture Day is determined as “Empowering the Next Generation in Participatory Urban Design” and emphasizes the role of young architects in urban planning and development. Moreover, the theme for World Habitat Day 2024, celebrated every year since 1986 to assess the state of our cities and living conditions alongside the right to adequate housing, has been revealed as ‘Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future’ to align with the theme of World Architecture Day.
In recent years, World Habitat Day has focused on issues like homelessness, the creation of safer cities, and climate change. This year, it presents a ‘call to action’ for the next generation to participate in sustainable urban development. In this context, the UN considers the Millennial and Generation Z groups as key players in reaching sustainable development goals on World Habitat Day, emphasizing the importance of empowering youth to take the lead in shaping their urban environments through participatory methods and local leadership. Likewise, the UIA motivates young architects to get involved in these initiatives, encouraging them to bring in innovative viewpoints essential for sustainable development. This year’s World Architecture Day, according to the UIA, centers on building resilient urban economies that foster growth and recovery through innovative and sustainable approaches. The main areas of focus should include energy efficiency, waste management, the utilization of sustainable materials, and the promotion of sustainable mobility. These initiatives aim to develop environmentally friendly cities that lessen reliance on external resources. Young architects can also play a significant role in increasing community engagement in decision-making, involving neighborhoods in the design process, and advocating for the stewardship and maintenance of public spaces.
Here, urban design emerges as a problem-solving process in urban settings, situated at the convergence of architecture, planning, and landscape architecture. It is characterized by the reshaping of quality spaces for individuals, merging the aesthetic elements of architectural design with the social sciences of urban planning. In this regard, when the roles defined for the young architects by the UIA within the framework of 2024 theme are considered, the importance of urban design in terms of knowledge and skills is showcased:
- Shaping resilient and sustainable urban environments,
- Advocating for social justice and sustainable practices,
- Engaging in urban planning processes,
- Promoting adaptive reuse and revitalization of existing structures, and,
- Incorporating circular economy principles and sustainable construction practices,
This highlights the significance of urban design education in engaging young architects (and urban design planners) in the development of a better (urban) future within the framework of architectural and urban planning education.
Urban Design Education
Urban design education is typically a specialized program available at the master’s level, primarily designed for architects and urban planners. It is also an essential component of the foundational curriculum for undergraduate students in architecture, urban and regional planning. By its nature, urban design education is interdisciplinary; merging disciplines such as architecture, urban and regional planning, civil engineering, sociology, psychology, environmental science, and economics. This integrative approach helps young architects and urban planners grasp the complexities of urban systems and understand how elements like transportation networks, green spaces, and social policies influence urban life. A comprehensive understanding enables them to go beyond aesthetics, allowing them to design, shape, and suggest solutions to urban issues while considering functionality, social impact, and sustainability
Urban design education provides (young) architects and urban planners with essential tools to tackle critical challenges such as housing inequality, sustainable transportation, green space planning, and climate resilience. By teaching principles of spatial design, urban sustainability, and social engagement, it encourages a mindset focused on creative problem-solving. As young individuals gain knowledge in urban design, they are more likely to engage actively in their communities, advocating for inclusive policies and the development of infrastructure. This education instills a sense of ownership and responsibility for their surroundings, prompting them to seek involvement in local decision-making processes. Consequently, they become informed citizens who can make significant contributions to creating socially cohesive, environmentally sustainable, and culturally rich cities.
As cities play a pivotal role in addressing global environmental challenges, it is crucial to educate young professionals in sustainable design practices. Urban design education emphasizes the importance of incorporating sustainable strategies in architecture and urban planning, such as energy efficiency, waste management, and climate-resilient infrastructure. By fostering young people’s interest and involvement in these areas, they are empowered to take on a stewardship role, contribute directly to sustainable development goals, and advocate for, plan, and design cities that align human needs with ecological balance.
To develop a better, livable, healthy, and inclusive urban future, it is essential for younger generations to emerge as proactive, aware, and visionary leaders. In this regard, we can provide young architects (and planners) with the knowledge, competencies, and enthusiasm necessary to transform their cities into sustainable and resilient communities through participatory urban design education.”
Resources:
URL1: https://www.uia-architectes.org/en/news/world-architecture-day-2024/
URL2: https://unhabitat.org/news/01-oct-2024/world-habitat-day-2024
