Understanding the Relationship Between Life and Architecture

Introduction

• Over 50 years of research and communication in architecture.
• Began studying the relationship between life and form in the 1960s.
• Initial suspicions about modern architecture's impact on society.

Early Experiences and Observations

• Travel to Italy on a grant sparked critical thinking about modernism.
• Questioning why architecture schools didn't focus on people.
• Noticing a gap between architecture and social sciences.

Modernism and Its Impact

• Modernism emphasized discarding traditional design principles.
• Created a belief in a new 'modern man' needing new urban environments.
• Lack of knowledge on what constitutes a good city.

Communication in Architecture

• Architecture criticized for focusing solely on form (like sculpture).
• Importance of the interplay between form and life in architecture.
• Good architecture should support and enhance life.

Key Findings on Urban Design

• Urban design significantly influences lifestyles and quality of life.
• Recognition that cities can be designed to enhance human interactions.
• Successful examples of cities reclaiming public spaces (Copenhagen, Melbourne, New York, Moscow).

Human Scale in Urban Planning

• Human scale essential for comfortable pedestrian experiences.
• Importance of dimensions that cater to walking and human interaction.
• Cities should invite walking and cycling as part of sustainable urban planning.

Quality Criteria in Urban Spaces

• Identified 12 key quality criteria for evaluating public spaces.
• Example of Campo in Siena as a well-designed public space.
• Human scale relates to sensory experiences and urban enjoyment.

Importance of Accessibility

• Good cities allow for accessibility for all age groups.
• Examples from Copenhagen about creating safe and inviting environments for children and elderly.

Trends in Urban Migration

• Shift in living preferences from suburbs back to cities.
• Rise in interest for city living due to enhanced quality of urban life.

Future of Urban Mobility

• Need for cities to become more sustainable and promote walking and cycling.
• Decline in individual car usage; shift towards smarter transportation solutions required.

Conclusion

• The integration of humanistic elements in architecture and urban planning is increasingly recognized.
• Importance of considering people's needs in design and planning.
• Hope for continued integration of these principles in education and practice.