Correspondence: Satu Parjanen, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Lahti Unit, Saimaankatu 11, Lahti FI-15140, Finland. Tel: +358 400 779 894; Fax: +358 3 876 9133; e-mail: satu.parjanen@lut.fi

¹is a professor of innovation systems at Lappeenranta University of Technology, Lahti Unit. His research interests are regional innovation systems and regional development.

²is a communication designer at Helsinki University of Technology, Lahti Centre. Her research interests are city aesthetics and communication.

³is a researcher at Lappeenranta University of Technology, Lahti Unit. Her research interest is collective creativity in innovation processes.

Received 11 March 2008; Revised 11 March 2008.

Abstract

This paper raises the importance of the built environment and aesthetic matters in the debate on the competitiveness of cities. The quality of a living environment is an important factor in creating competitiveness and the reputation of places. Cities compete for the favours of inhabitants, companies and visitors, and an attractive urban milieu could attract important and creative human resources to a city. This paper defines the concept of city design management as a conceptual way of emphasising the importance of designing an attractive living environment. City design management means all-inclusive managing of the city design. It gives a city the opportunity to be distinguished from other cities. The elements of city design management are city topography, general impression, presentation and management.