The design of space is an interdisciplinary task that goes far beyond the boundaries of classical architecture.
Future-oriented urban development is based on numerous spatial concepts in which space is also perceived as a cultural, historical, and social construct. Accordingly, the research focus “City of the Future” brings together research initiatives that engage with the design of educational spaces.
In a modern and equitable urban society, educational and cultural opportunities should be accessible to all. This raises the question of how learning environments and educational content can be integrated into the city in an increasingly networked and globalized world. In this context, it is necessary to further investigate the most effective use of digital technologies and to unlock their digital potential in order to design flexible, innovative, and appealing learning spaces. For instance, interactive platforms and virtual environments can embed educational content into the city and provide citizens with improved access to educational and cultural offerings.
Beyond this technological exploration—within the framework of a post-digital perspective—special attention is also given to the design of participation. This applies both to the aforementioned educational and cultural offerings and, in particular, to urban and neighborhood development processes. For these to be adaptive and sustainable, new forms of civic engagement and co-creation in municipal decision-making must be identified, stakeholders must be better connected, and all interest groups must be integrated into planning-relevant processes. Historical approaches can serve as useful tools in this regard. These not only provide insight into the history of cities and rural areas but also examine concepts that have proven successful in the past for their applicability in today’s globalized world.
In this way, historical and cultural approaches are combined with digital technologies as well as architectural and artistic forms of expression. The shared objective is to implement the vision of a future-oriented city in which people contribute, become active participants in urban society, learn from one another, and help shape cultural life.
