URBAN DESIGN International (2007) 12, 87–99. doi:10.1057/palgrave.udi.9000194
Generative processes for revitalizing historic towns or heritage districts
Besim S Hakim1
1Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Correspondence: Besim S. Hakim, Tel/Fax: +1 505 298 4711; E-mail: arcan@sprynet.com
Abstract
Essentially this article advocates the adoption and use of dynamic generative processes for town and neighborhood development vs the use of static blueprints of 'master plans' that produce fabricated built environments. Instead, those that are the product of generative processes have attributes that can be described as dynamic complex adaptive environments that embody the virtues of complexity and sustainability. The article also discusses the components of a generative program and how they are utilized for revitalization projects that are located within historic towns or heritage areas. Two case studies – Albuquerque, New Mexico and Muharraq and Manama, Bahrain – are discussed to show how the principles of a generative program are applied. Over time, the results of such a program for revitalization will maintain the integrity, characteristics, and sense of place of the area by avoiding the static results that freezes the built environment and produces museums that are of interest to tourists rather than the people living there.1
Keywords:
Generative process, fabricated structure, codes, proscriptive, prescriptive
1 To my knowledge this approach was not considered or discussed until the early years of this decade. Amos Rapoport confirmed this – by saying ' ... and this is a form of preservation that has not yet really been considered or investigated.' – in his article 'A framework for studying vernacular design,' Journal of Architectural and Planning Research, vol. 16, no. 1, 1999, pp. 52–64. Christopher Alexander in his recent four-volume book The Nature of Order, 2002–2005, discussed a similar approach in volume 2, chapter 6, titled 'Generated Structure.' He has also published in volumes 2 and 3 of this book built and unbuilt projects which he was involved in that are based on various aspects of this approach.
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