BAUKULTUR AS AN IMPULSE FOR GROWTH
04.07.2007
Gehl Architects, in collaboration with the German Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs and the European Union recently completed a report on "Baukultur as an impule for growth - good examples for European Cities"
‘Baukultur’ can be seen as an integrated political approach to sustainable urban development and encompasses all factors that influence the built environment including architecture and engineering, infrastructure, town planning, urban design and landscaping, building maintenance and building economics. In looking at varied case studies drawn mainly from European cities there is increasing evidence that a positive ‘Baukultur’ is essential to the future health of our cities. If cities are to survive and compete in the 21st century they will need to retain or develop high density, mixed-use solutions that are well connected and adaptable. If these solutions are delivered through an integrated decision-making process that builds on the local character of the place and produces a high quality public realm, then they are more likely to add value to the future sustainability, financial viability, and liveability of their respective communities.
