The Schindler Global Award 2015

Abstract

The GSA looks for unconventional approaches, innovative urban design strategies and architectural concepts for livable, mixed-use, high-density urban environments. Projects should focus on the creation of interactive urban ensembles in which the central theme is the interface between different modes of horizontal and vertical mobil- ity and their interplay with the built environment. Projects should be developed from a trans-scalar, holistic, and cross-border perspective.

The task of the competition is to create an urban design-based response to this speci c brief about mobility related to Shenzhen, China and its local and regional relationships in the Pearl River Delta. The interface of mobility networks with the built environment of the city and region must be considered in a global context. Stu- dents are asked to address the social, economic and environmental challenges presented by globalization and urbanization. Analytical design proposals should use mobility as both a catalyst and conduit for urban change. The goal of the Global Schindler Award is to create an open forum for new thinking about the challenges and possibilities of a global, urban shared future, using mobility systems for greater inclusion, connection and accessibility for all.

Access to Urbanity: Designing the City as a Resource

The aim of “Designing the City as a Resource” is to interpret the city not only as something consuming resources but also as a provider of them, in the form of cultural, political or economic advantages. The key is to design the city to provide access to these bene ts in an inclusive and sustainable way. By linking people, goods and information in urban space, new productive interactions are released.

We understand the production of human settlement as urbanization. This process, however, does not neces- sarily result in urbanity. Urbanity consists of an appropriate level of the following qualities in urbanized environ- ments: centrality, accessibility, usability, adaptability, stakeholder appropriation, interaction and diversity. A density of varied human interaction in public space generates exchange and friction; consequently competitive ness and progress. Ideally this process leads to tolerance, cultural diversity and innovation. “Designing the City as a Resource” involves designing a fertile and diverse environment, rich in relationships. Entries to the GSA should focus on the creation of vibrant urban environments, stimulated by appropriate urban typologies and their strong interconnection with public space and mobility networks.

Mobility

Mobility and development are deeply intertwined in Shenzhen and the Pearl River Delta. Mobility structures and modes in uence the use, morphology and composition of the built environment.

For the Global Schindler Award competition, mobility is a lens through which many facets integral to urban design can be viewed. Mobility infrastructure must be examined beyond technical terms. Design needs to interweave infrastructure and the city, in a way that engages with the interconnection of mobility networks and hubs, the urban landscape, and the built environment. The topic of mobility can be addressed in different ways, approaching movement in both space and time. This means that physical changes as well as processes in the urban environment can be examined under the lens of mobility.