Speaker
Description
Where design is often narrowly interpreted as ‘giving shape to things’, its potential goes beyond formgiving. This research specifically focuses on the nexus of research, practice, and policymaking in shaping urban futures and the potential of the designer’s role at this intersection of disciplines and scales.
By revisiting key literature of the recent past and examining a range of contemporary projects and practices, the research offers a critical reflection on how historical and current approaches inform and transform the designer’s role. It highlights the importance of understanding the designer not merely as a creator of physical spaces but as a pivotal figure in reimagining urban environments.
A selection of case studies from north-western Europe is used to explore these themes, examining how various projects reflect the evolving narratives and strategies that have shaped design and planning practices over time. These cases, which range in scale and scope, are analyzed not only for their specific outcomes but also for the underlying discourses and tactics that have influenced their development. This approach allows a consideration of how both historical contexts and contemporary challenges inform the designer's role in different settings.
This research positions designers as key agents in bridging the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications. It emphasizes the importance of their engagement with the regulatory and institutional “dark matter” (Orff, 2016) that often dictates the feasibility and scope of urban projects. By critically reflecting on past and present strategies, designers can question existing norms and contribute to new visions that respond to contemporary urban challenges.
The research also reflects on the designer’s toolkit. More specifically it underscores the importance of their capacity for visual storytelling—using maps, sketches, and renders to articulate potential (urban) futures—as an essential tool for engaging diverse stakeholders and fostering dialogue. This capability allows designers to navigate the complexities of policy and practice, contributing to more inclusive and adaptable urban futures.
Ultimately, this research advocates for a reconceptualization of the designer’s role as one that transcends disciplinary boundaries, positioning them as facilitators of change who draw upon both historical insights and current innovations. By reflecting on both established and emerging discourses, the study provides a nuanced perspective on how designers can contribute to creating sustainable, equitable, and visionary urban environments.
References
Orff, K. (2016). Dark Matter. In D. H. Brandt & C. S. Nordenson (Eds.), Waterproofing New York (pp. 16–21). New York: Terreform.
| Keywords | Designers roles; dark matter; design toolkit; research through design |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | No |
