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Welcome to the April, 2013 edition of SciEP newsletter, providing monthly summaries of articles on science & education related topics of interest to scientist and professionals. The mission of our journals is to provide an open access forum for publishing new findings on issues pertinent to scientific and academic field. We also invite you to submit original research papers, review articles, short reports, or case studies are considered for publication in our Multidisciplinary Journals.

American Journal of Public Health Research
DOI: 10.12691/ajphr-1-1-3

The Implementation of a Tele-Homecare System with Service Oriented Architecture and HL7 Message Transmission Standard
Ching-Sung Wang

American Journal of Medical and Biological Research
DOI: 10.12691/ajmbr-1-1-2

The Influence of Ethanol on Pyruvate Kinases Activity in Vivo, in Vitro, in Silico
Lelevich Sergey Vladimirovich, Khrustalev Vladislav Victorovich, Barkovsky Eugene Victorovich, Shedogubova Tatyana Aleksandrovna

American Journal of Medical Sciences and Medicine
DOI: 10.12691/ajmsm-1-1-1

Clinical and Histological Features in Wegener Granulomatosis
Li Cavoli Gioacchino, Passantino Rita, Bono Luisa, Tortorici Calogera, Ferrantelli Angelo, Giammarresi Carlo, Rotolo Ugo

American Journal of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology
DOI: 10.12691/ajidm-1-1-2

The Curse of Lymphatic Filariasis: Would the Continual Use of Diethylcarbamazine Eliminate this Scourge in Papua New Guinea?
Anne Lanham, Lillian Mwanri

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American Journal of Medicine Studies
American Journal of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology
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Journal of Preventive Medicine
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Conceptualizing Urban Imaginaries: Starchitecture, Placemaking and Future City Design Paradigms

Tigran Haas

KTH Royal Institute of Technology

Abstract: This thematic, conceptual research paper delves into the intricate relationship between urban imaginaries and the multifaceted evolution of cities. Urban imaginaries, as collective mental constructs, encapsulate diverse cultural, social, and economic dimensions, profoundly influencing city revitalization, cultural preservation, and sustainability. These imaginaries are pivotal in guiding urban planners, fostering community involvement, and steering urban development toward equitable and sustainable futures. The concept of “Starchitecture,” exemplifying iconic architectural projects, emerges as a tangible manifestation of urban imaginaries, significantly shaping cityscapes and cultural narratives. Furthermore, the paper examines the concept of Placemaking, which integrates urban imaginaries into tangible lived experiences, nurturing a sense of belonging and community identity. It highlights the symbiotic relationship between urbanism and imaginaries, emphasizing adaptability, sustainability, and resilience as key factors in ensuring cities evolve in harmony with the visions and aspirations of their inhabitants. Transitioning to green cities and integrating sustainable transportation with smart city technologies are crucial in aligning urban development with environmental sustainability and responsive, culturally attuned initiatives. This scholarly paper adopts an investigative methodology based on qualitative secondary data and archival and document analysis of various theoretical discourses in city urbanism. A focus of this paper is also the investigation of dominant paradigms under the urban imaginaries’ framework, examining shortly five key urbanism ideals. It includes a case study on the emerging Gulf urbanism exemplified by “The Line,” offering insights into its role within the broader context of urban imaginaries. The discussion extends to the concepts of happy cities and the livability of urban imaginaries, encompassing historical and aesthetic dimensions. The paper concludes by addressing the intersection of spatial justice, green futures, and urban imaginaries. It underscores the vision of creating equitable cities that challenge spatial inequalities and foster environments where everyone can thrive. Ultimately, urban imaginaries are presented as transformative forces, shaping inclusive, sustainable, and just cities.

Keywords: urban imaginaries, placemaking, urbanism, spatial justice, smart city, resilience, revitalization, transformation, starchitecture, transurbanism, the line, sustainability, multimodal transport

Received December 18, 2023; Revised January 20, 2024; Accepted January 29, 2024

Citation: Tigran Haas, Conceptualizing Urban Imaginaries: Starchitecture, Placemaking and Future City Design Paradigms. Journal of City and Development, 6 (1). 1-15. January 2024. doi:10.12691/jcd-6-1-1

1. Introduction

What compels us to envision novel, positively charged urban trajectories? As we gaze toward an uncertain urban future, it becomes incontrovertible that the fabric of our world is destined to be intricately woven by the threads of its burgeoning urban conglomerates [1]. Foreseeing cities as the ultimate crucible for the forthcoming generations accentuates their pivotal role in the existential tapestry of individuals across the globe. These envisaged urban epochs’ morphology, ambiance, and modus operandi have perennially constituted subjects of profound intellectual inquiry [2]. The trajectories of these impending urban realities assume an ever-heightening significance, particularly in our collective pursuit of sustainable praxes and habitats for posterity [3,4]. The indispensable role of imagination in the intricate processes of conceptualization, envisioning, and actualizing urban futures persists as an inalienable constant [1,2]. This creative essence not only transfigures our spatial cognitions but also undertakes an audacious interrogation of established realities, proffering avant-garde expressions of alternative urbanities [3,4].

Cities constitute intricate urban geographies and topographies that elude comprehensive understanding due to their multifaceted nature. They embody diverse meanings, scales, contexts, histories, infrastructures, and configurations, mirroring the richness of their inhabitants. Unveiling these facets demands remarkable comprehension, imagination, and creativity, recognizing that cities transcend material structures. They are dynamic entities shaped by practices, representations, and sensory experiences, each dimension offering boundless possibilities for a city’s existence, perception, and evolution. In his work “Triumph of the City” [5], Edward Glaeser champions the idea of urban areas as powerhouses of innovation and progress. He argues that cities’ dense populations are crucibles for creativity and economic development, fostering interactions that lead to greater productivity and innovation. Glaeser acknowledges the challenges of urban living, such as congestion and high living costs, but maintains an overall positive view, seeing these issues as manageable aspects of urban dynamics. In contrast, Richard Florida’s perspective on cities evolved. In “The Rise of the Creative Class” [6], he initially celebrated cities’ ability to attract creative talent, highlighting how this influx drives economic and cultural growth. However, in his later work, “The New Urban Crisis” [7], Florida focuses on the problems arising from this trend, such as increased inequality and gentrification. He acknowledges that while cities are hubs of innovation, they also face significant challenges in ensuring equitable growth and addressing the downsides of rapid urbanization.

Together, Glaeser and Florida’s works provide a nuanced view of modern urban life, recognizing the importance of cities as centers of progress while also grappling with the complex challenges they face in the 21st century, but also providing an intellectual and realistic as well as visionary platform for urban imaginaries. The term “urban imaginary” serves as a platform for delving into the myriad meanings inherent in a city. It encapsulates the continuous shaping and reshaping of a city’s public culture, encompassing its public spaces and urban locales. It delves into the processes that underlie the emergence of place-based narratives within and influenced by the city. The concept prompts contemplation on the politics of the imaginary, questioning who has agency in shaping it and who is represented in the city’s narratives.

Urban imaginaries, spanning a spectrum from futuristic, and often utopian or dystopian, visions of intelligent, experimental, happy, and livable places, smart and eco-conscious cities to postcard-worthy images invoking urban nostalgia, weave through the intricate tapestry of contemporary urban civic life [8]. They take on diverse forms, from architectural depictions showcasing extravagant starchitecture, posturbanism, and lavish living [9] to performative activism championing new spatial justice and feminist planning ideas [10,11]. Beyond these, urban imaginaries find expression in utopian representations across various art forms like film, art, photography, and literature while embracing modern technology through augmented urban realities in location-based gaming and mobile apps [81]. These imaginaries influence tourism, place marketing, city branding, artistic endeavors, architectural landscapes, urban and city planning, and policy domains in the day-to-day urban milieu. Their pervasive presence is not confined to traditional channels. Still, it extends across both classical and contemporary media, forming a subject of scholarly inquiry in disciplines spanning the humanities, social sciences, architecture, art, and design [12,84].

Urban imaginaries encompass collective and shared mental constructs, perceptions, and representations held by individuals, communities, and societies about cities. These conceptualizations span a broad spectrum of ideas, embracing cultural, social, economic, and environmental dimensions, molding how people conceptualize and engage with urban spaces. Beyond cities' tangible and physical aspects, these imaginaries integrate subjective, symbolic, and emotional dimensions, reflecting the complex interplay of human experiences within urban environments [13,14]. Urban imaginaries play a pivotal role in shaping various facets of urban life, including architecture, city planning, urban design, policy-making, and the overall development of city landscapes. These imaginaries influence how people envision urban environments’ past, present, and future. A nuanced understanding of these imaginaries is crucial for comprehending the diverse perspectives that inform urban development, contributing to creating inclusive, just, and sustainable cities that align with the aspirations of their inhabitants [13,14].

Another important view of urban imaginaries is that of suburbia; it reimagines suburban areas not just as residential extensions of cities but as vibrant, diverse entities playing a crucial role in urban development. These suburbs are not stagnant or uniform but are evolving into complex spaces with their own cultural, economic, and social dynamics. This perspective challenges traditional urban-centric views, highlighting how suburban areas contribute significantly to the broader urban experience and should be recognized for their dynamic role in shaping modern urban landscapes [15,16]. So the fact that the vast majority of people worldwide who move to cities are doing so to populate the surrounding suburbs and not to live in urban center cores is becoming a constant. The dynamism of urban imaginaries is a constant theme, oscillating between representations of reality and proactive efforts to shape reality. The traditional labels of urban, suburban, and rural are inadequate to describe the intricate landscapes encompassing highways, subdivisions, and industrial zones extending into the countryside. Aside from the criticism for economic inefficiency, social injustice, environmental harm, and lack of urbanism, architectural and aesthetic appeal [4], it is also a natural outcome of economic progress and societal democratization with unrecognized benefits based on false and often unsubstantiated questioning round common assumptions about urban expansion [17].

Beyond mere portrayal, these imaginative constructs infuse the global landscape with aspirations, desires, empirical data, and observations. They serve to elucidate, explain, and wield influence, intricately interweaving with material interests, embodying power dynamics, and shaping the urban environment. Recognizing an urban imaginary as a dynamic and contested realm rather than a fixed endpoint is crucial, emphasizing its continuous metamorphosis and diverse perspectives. Urban imaginaries also envision a future where integrating digital technology (including digital networks and telecommunications) revolutionizes urban design, construction, and lifestyle. These advancements are projected to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and livability of urban spaces, effectively reshaping the traditional concept of cities in the era of digitalization [18].

2. Histories and Aesthetics of Urban Imaginaries

We are currently in what is often called the ‘urban century.’ Globally, cities exhibit intricate evolutionary trajectories in developing or developed nations [5]. In recent decades, cities and towns have experienced significant transformations, with drastic economic, social, and spatial changes. According to Haas and Westlund [19], this evolution has led us to a pivotal point, navigating through the complexities of a post-urban and post-political era, profoundly impacting metropolitan areas, municipalities, and cities. This transition is particularly pronounced in megacities and declining regions, facing an increasing prevalence of complex challenges related to internal dynamics, governance, and external linkages. This period is marked by a growing divide between socially marginalized individuals in declining economic and physical spaces and those in thriving areas [7].

The history of “urban imaginaries” is a fascinating journey through the evolution of how societies envision and conceptualize their cities. This concept has its roots in the early stages of urban development, where ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans had distinct visions for their cities, emphasizing order, beauty, and public spaces, reflecting their societal values and philosophies. These early imaginaries set the foundation for urban development, focusing on creating cities that were not only functional but also represented the ideals and aspirations of their societies.

Urban imaginaries underwent a significant transformation as we moved into the industrial era. The rapid urbanization brought on by industrialization led to new challenges and opportunities, prompting a shift in how people imagined urban spaces. This period saw the rise of modernist thinking in urban planning, championed by figures like Le Corbusier, who imagined highly ordered, efficient cities geared towards progress and modernity. This was a time when urban imaginaries were heavily influenced by the ideals of technological advancement and economic growth, often at the expense of social and environmental considerations.

Urban imaginaries have become increasingly complex and diverse in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, reflecting the growing awareness of social, environmental, and economic challenges. A focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience characterizes contemporary urban imaginaries. Cities are now envisioned as spaces that must accommodate growth and development and ensure the well-being of all their inhabitants and the environment. This shift represents a more holistic approach to urban planning, aiming to create aesthetically pleasing, functional, equitable, and sustainable cities catering to residents’ diverse needs and aspirations.

The relationship between the aesthetics of a city and urban imaginaries is deeply intertwined with the concepts of utopian and dystopian urbanism [20]. Urban imaginaries are potent tools in shaping how we perceive, design, and experience cities. They represent our collective dreams, fears, and aspirations for urban life, often reflecting broader societal values and ideologies [21]. Aesthetics play a critical role in this, as they are the most visible and immediate expression of these imaginaries [11]. Utopian urban schemes often envision harmonious, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing cities where the design and layout contribute to an idealized way of living [22]. These visions are typically characterized by clean lines, abundant green spaces, and a sense of order, aiming to manifest an ideal society through urban form [23]. However, pursuing these utopian ideals often brings to light such visions’ complexity and potential pitfalls, potentially veering into dystopian urbanism [24]. Dystopian urban imaginaries emerge as a critique or consequence of utopian aspirations gone awry [25]. In these scenarios, the aesthetics of the city may reflect overreaching control, inequality, or environmental degradation, portraying a cityscape that, while possibly impressive, feels alienating or oppressive [85]. The stark contrast between utopian and dystopian urbanism lies in the lived experience of the inhabitants. Where utopian designs aim to uplift and improve life, dystopian aesthetics often warn of what happens when urban planning prioritizes specific values (such as efficiency or technological advancement) at the expense of human-centric considerations [26]. This complex interplay underscores the importance of critically examining urban imaginaries and their aesthetic expressions, ensuring they align with inclusive, sustainable, and equitable urban development principles [27].

3. Revitalization, Starchitecture, and Transformation of Cities

The profound intersection of urban imaginaries with the revitalization and transformation of cities significantly influences their development trajectory. These imaginaries, reflective of a community’s collective aspirations and perceptions, serve as the foundational concept for revitalization initiatives. Shaping overarching goals and planning strategies, urban imaginaries guide urban planners and policymakers in envisioning the future of a city. Recognizing and engaging with diverse urban imaginaries become pivotal in community involvement, fostering an inclusive approach that considers residents’ varied perspectives and desires in revitalization.

The connection between urban imaginaries and revitalization extends to crucial aspects such as cultural identity, social equity, and sustainability. Cultural elements embedded in imaginaries guide how revitalization projects engage with and conserve historical heritage, contributing significantly to a city’s cultural identity. This involves a thoughtful approach to preserving and celebrating the unique historical narratives that shape the city. Social equity issues are addressed by ensuring that revitalization efforts align with the diverse needs and aspirations of the community, fostering an inclusive urban transformation. Additionally, urban imaginaries featuring sustainability ideals serve as a guiding force, directing revitalization toward environmentally conscious initiatives. This includes promoting green spaces, implementing energy-efficient infrastructure, and adopting eco-friendly practices to align with the sustainability goals envisioned within the urban imaginary.

Metropolitan global centers across the Western, Middle Eastern, and Asian spheres are progressively converging in their urban landscapes. Notably, cities like London, Dubai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Shanghai, New York, and Frankfurt exhibit a striking resemblance in their architectural and even urban compositions, reflecting a discernible pattern of similarity among their new constructions. This unity extends to their (starchitecture) skylines, where the profiles of these global cities increasingly mirror each other, suggesting a unifying trend in contemporary urban development. In essence, the connection between urban imaginaries and revitalization underscores the intricate interplay of cultural preservation, social equity, and sustainability in shaping the transformative trajectory of cities. Simultaneously, starchitecture is a tangible expression of urban imaginaries, leaving an indelible mark on the cityscape and contributing to the narrative of the city’s envisioned future [28].

Starchitecture, known as ‘star architecture’ or ‘posturbanism,’ refers to projects by renowned architects with innovative and iconic designs [29]. The link between starchitecture and urban imaginaries lies in the profound influence of these architectural endeavors on shaping and embodying the collective visions of a city. Starchitecture often becomes a physical representation of urban imaginaries, contributing to the city’s skyline as symbolic landmarks encapsulating cultural, economic, or technological aspirations within the urban imaginary [30,31]. The intentional choice of starchitects and their designs by city planners and developers reflects a strategic decision to project a specific image or narrative about the city’s future [6]. It underscores the role of iconic structures in manifesting and reinforcing the desired image and identity within the urban imaginary [79].

Starchitecture goes beyond its architectural significance; it can shape the perception and interaction of residents and visitors with urban spaces [3,32]. These iconic structures can evoke specific emotions, contribute to a shared sense of identity, and influence the city’s overall atmosphere [7,33] They serve as focal points in the urban landscape, as reflective elements contributing to the ongoing evolution of the community’s urban imaginaries [2,34]. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the connection between starchitecture and urban imaginaries is intricate and may spark debates about prioritizing iconic structures over more practical or community-oriented urban development [8,35]. The selection and implementation of architectural projects can align with or challenge existing urban imaginaries, leading to a dynamic interplay between architectural innovation and societal aspirations [36,37]. Striking a balance between iconic structures and the community’s broader needs becomes a key consideration in navigating this complexity [1,32].

4. Placemaking and Urbanism

Placemaking is a multifaceted approach to the planning, designing, and managing public spaces that embodies the essence of urbanism [38]. At its core, placemaking strives to create public spaces promoting health, happiness, and well-being [10]. It’s an inclusive process that involves listening to and incorporating the community’s diverse voices, ensuring that the spaces created are functional, emotionally resonant, and culturally relevant [1]. Placemaking goes beyond mere aesthetics; it seeks to forge connections between people and the places they share by catalyzing shared community spaces that enhance local engagement and foster a strong sense of belonging [82]. In the broader context of urbanism, placemaking is a crucial tool for transforming cities into vibrant, sustainable, and livable environments [3]. It challenges traditional urban planning by prioritizing human-centered design and recognizing that a place is more than its physical layout—it is a tapestry of experiences, memories, and social interactions [86]. As such, placemaking is vital in creating dynamic, resilient urban landscapes that are physically appealing, socially vibrant, and inclusive [6]

Conversely, the interconnection between placemaking and urban imaginaries is a vibrant interplay focused on creating community-driven public spaces. Placemaking engages residents in envisioning and designing these spaces as a collaborative process, allowing their urban imaginaries to shape the physical environment. By incorporating elements of cultural identity and responding to diverse needs within the community’s vision, successful placemaking fosters a sense of belonging and ownership. The adaptable nature of placemaking aligns seamlessly with the dynamic evolution of urban imaginaries, ensuring that public spaces continuously mirror changing community aspirations. Placemaking becomes a tangible manifestation of the collective urban imaginary, transforming abstract visions into lived experiences contributing to a city’s distinct character and identity. The relationship between urbanism and urban imaginaries is intricate, forming a symbiotic connection that profoundly influences urban planning, development, and city experiences. Urbanism, encompassing the multifaceted study, understanding, and practice of urban planning and design, operates in tandem with urban imaginaries—the collective mental constructs and perceptions individuals, communities, and societies hold about contemporary and future cities. This connection manifests itself in various vital aspects, notably guiding urban development. With their visions and values, urban imaginaries contribute significantly to formulating urban planning strategies, policies, and design principles. Urbanism, in turn, acts as the practical conduit for translating these imaginaries into tangible plans and interventions that shape cities’ physical and social fabric.

A crucial dimension of this relationship lies in the cultural and social realms. Urban imaginaries often encapsulate cultural and social dimensions, shaping the vision of an ideal city [39]. Urbanism, as a study of cities, recognizes and responds to these dimensions, seeking to create spaces that resonate with the community’s cultural identity and social needs [34]. This interplay ensures that urban development reflects and responds to a city’s cultural richness and social diversity [40]. Additionally, the dynamic and evolving nature shared by urbanism and urban imaginaries reinforces adaptability [41]. Urbanism responds to changing demographics, economic trends, and technological advancements [7], while urban imaginaries capture the evolving aspirations and values of the community [27]. This synergy ensures that urban development remains adaptable, aligning with the changing needs and visions of the inhabitants while weaving together the practical aspects of planning with the intangible, influential realm of urban imaginaries [42].

Repeatedly, one also must emphasize (in the context of placemaking and urban imaginaries) the intricate nature of cities, which function as highly complex Transurban organisms. Everyday life within these urban environments reorganizes and assembles itself into shifting patterns shaped by the diverse inhabitants who navigate them. Cities are unequivocally more sophisticated than the persistent promotion of simplistic contemporary vogue DIY/Pop-up/Tactical Urbanism schemes, now being advocated as permanent fixes—be it the 15-minute, 5-minute, or the impractical 1-minute city fervently pushed by planners, consultants, academics, and politicians. They transcend the limitations of a prescribed and somewhat paternalistic model that suggests, “It is so good and healthy for you that you cannot live without it.” The most popular and latest in a streak of urban models, the 15-minute city,” where inhabitants have access to all the services they need to live, learn and thrive within their immediate vicinity,” is a model that shares ideas for making urban areas adapt to humans, not the other way around [43]. The outdated and recycled ideas of the 15-minute city, 20-minute neighborhoods, or the audacious attempt to micromanage people’s lives down to a one-minute urban level of the city, district, or neighborhood underscore the inadequacy of such rigid approaches in capturing the true complexity and dynamism inherent in urban spaces.

5. Dominating Urban Planning and Design Paradigms

When it comes to urban planning and design paradigms assembled under the urban imaginaries umbrella, several theories, trends, visions, approaches, ideals, and ideologies have influenced the contemporary practice of urban planning & design, and those effects can be seen in the form of our built environments. Dominant ideals within today’s urban planning and urban design discourse have been examined and defined in various ways - as territories of urban design [44], as urban design force fields [45], as integrated paradigms in urbanism [46], as urbanist cultures and approaches to city-making [47], as new directions in planning theory [78], as four urbanisms [49] as typologies of urban design [50], as opportunity urbanism [16], as city design modernist, traditional, green, and systems perspectives [51], five ideals in urban planning & design [52] and plural urbanisms [53]. As an extract, five leading ideals stand out clearly in international practice and current academic urban design discourse: New Urbanism, Post Urbanism, Green Urbanism, Re-Urbanism, and Everyday Urbanism, explained briefly below [52].

Everyday Urbanism: Everyday urbanism encapsulates the intrinsic patterns of daily life within cities, highlighting the mundane interactions and routines that collectively shape the urban experience. It underscores the importance of small-scale interventions, community engagement, and the lived experiences of individuals in fostering a sense of place and identity. This approach to urbanism emphasizes the significance of the ordinary, do-it-yourself approaches, challenging traditional planning paradigms to create more inclusive and people-centric places and cities [52].

Post-Urbanism: Post-urbanism reflects a paradigm shift in urban development, transcending conventional notions of city structures and functions. It responds to contemporary urban environments’ complex and dynamic nature, often characterized by decentralization, fluid boundaries, and the blurring of urban-rural distinctions. Post-urbanism critiques traditional planning models, advocating for flexible & adaptive strategies that cater to diverse social, economic, spatial, and environmental dynamics. Simultaneously, it aims to foster resilient and sustainable urban and architectural landscapes. This approach challenges the conventional rigidity of urban planning, promoting a more dynamic and responsive framework that aligns with the evolving needs of modern cities and their inhabitants.

New Urbanism: New urbanism seeks to revitalize and create more sustainable communities by revisiting traditional urban design principles. Emphasizing mixed-use development, pedestrian-friendly environments, accessible public spaces, and public transport-oriented development, new urbanism aims to enhance the quality of life for residents. It promotes a sense of community, social interaction, and environmental consciousness, fostering compact, walkable neighborhoods that balance the needs of residents with considerations for the natural environment.

Green Urbanism: Green urbanism envisions cities as environmentally responsible, resource-efficient entities prioritizing ecological sustainability. It integrates green spaces, energy-efficient infrastructure, and eco-friendly practices into urban planning and design. This approach aims to mitigate environmental impact, improve air quality, and promote biodiversity within urban areas. Green urbanism recognizes the interconnectedness of human-made and natural systems, advocating for a harmonious coexistence between urban development and the environment.

Reurbanism: Reurbanism involves the renewal and revitalization of urban areas, particularly those facing decline or neglect. It focuses on transforming underutilized spaces, obsolete infrastructure, and deteriorating neighborhoods into vibrant, economically viable urban environments. Reurbanism often incorporates adaptive reuse of existing structures, brownfield redevelopment, and community-driven initiatives to breathe new life into urban spaces. This approach aims to counter urban decay, promote dense and compact economic growth, extensive real estate exploitation and development, and create thriving, livable communities.

Urban imaginaries, a concept reflecting city residents' collective visions and mental constructs, can be intriguingly analyzed through the lens of Transurbanism and the five distinct types of urbanism: green, reurbanism, new urbanism, everyday urbanism, and post-urbanism. These diverse urban models offer varied city planning and living approaches, embodying unique principles and objectives. For instance, green urbanism focuses on sustainability and ecological balance, while reurbanism emphasizes revitalizing existing urban spaces. In contrast, new urbanism advocates for community-oriented, walkable neighborhoods, everyday urbanism deals with the mundane aspects of city life, and posturbanism explores the evolution of urban spaces in the post-industrial age (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Urban Imaginaries in pictures: Five Ideals/Paradigms/Approaches in Urbanism (five leading ideals stand out clearly in international practice and current academic urban design discourse): Everyday, Green, New, Post, and Reurbanism from left to right. Images generated by and with Midjourney AI MUSE AI Tools (Collage Image)

The ambitious project of NEOM's 'The Line' in Saudi Arabia (discussed briefly later) provides a fascinating case study to examine all the different ideals and concepts of urbanism about urban imaginaries. As a planned cross-border city in the Tabuk Province of northwestern Saudi Arabia, 'The Line' exemplifies a blend of several urbanism types, particularly green and new urbanism, by prioritizing ecological sustainability and high-quality urban living. The project's vision of creating a linear, car-free city in the desert challenges traditional urban designs and aligns with the evolving global perspectives on futuristic, sustainable urban living. This makes 'The Line' an exemplary model for studying the dynamic interplay between urban imaginaries and contemporary urbanism trends.

6. Urban Imaginaries and the Lure of AI, ML, and Smarter Cities

As we venture deeper into the electronic epoch, a century marked by profound technological transformations, individuals increasingly acclimate to engaging in a world mediated by intricate networks. This phenomenon, a hallmark of our era, has seen a significant shift as digital technology seamlessly integrates into the fabric of quotidian objects and environments [54]. Consequently, the role of these pervasive networks has evolved from merely being a medium of indirect interaction to a fundamental component that extends and enriches the architectural framework of our living spaces. This evolution in the digital landscape is profoundly interwoven with the concept of urban imaginaries, as it reshapes the way individuals perceive, interact with, and conceptualize urban spaces [18]. The seamless integration of technology into everyday life mediates and amplifies the lived experiences within these urban environments, blurring the lines between physical and digital realms [55]. As Mitchell [55] eloquently posits in "Me++: The Cyborg Self and the Networked City," this fusion of architecture and networked digital technology represents a pivotal shift in the urban imaginary, heralding a new era of interconnected urban living spaces.

The concept of urban imaginaries profoundly influences the development of future city visions, intertwining with placemaking, community identity, lived experiences, and technological advancements like artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning. Lefebvre [11] defines urban imaginaries as the complex visions and mental constructions of urban residents about their city, shaping how urban spaces are perceived, used, and planned. These collective perceptions significantly impact urban development strategies, guiding urban branding, revitalization, and conservation efforts [9,11]. For instance, how residents imagine their city can directly influence the priorities and outcomes of urban planning decisions, reflecting the community's needs and aspirations.

Placemaking, a key element in this relationship, emphasizes creating public spaces that enhance people's health, happiness, and well-being. This approach aligns with the community's identity and aspirations, embodying the local urban imaginary [1,38]. Integrating AI and deep learning in urban planning offers innovative ways to enrich placemaking. These technologies provide valuable insights into public space usage, enabling planners to design more functional and inclusive spaces [56]. For example, AI can analyze patterns in how different demographic groups interact with urban spaces, leading to more effective and representative placemaking [6].

Furthermore, the role of technology in shaping urban imaginaries is increasingly evident in urban branding, revitalization, and conservation. Adopting AI and deep learning transforms not only cities' physical aspects but also their residents' and visitors' perceptions and experiences [12,57,58]. For example, AI applications in urban conservation can predict and mitigate urbanization impacts on historical sites, thereby preserving cultural heritage [34,41]. This interplay between technology and urban imaginaries creates dynamic city visions that respond to contemporary challenges and the evolving needs of urban communities. The influence of urban imaginaries extends to social equity and environmental sustainability in urban development. Inclusive urban planning, informed by the diverse imaginaries of all community members, plays a crucial role in creating equitable and sustainable urban environments [48,59]. Technologies like AI can aid in identifying and addressing social disparities in urban areas, promoting inclusive development that reflects the collective vision of a diverse urban population [8,57].

The interplay between urban imaginaries and digitalization, particularly in experimental cities, reshapes our understanding of urban spaces. Digitalization, through the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), is creating 'digital grounds'—spaces where physical and digital realities converge, offering ubiquitous information access [54]. In these experimental cities, urban imaginaries are no longer constrained to the physical realm but extend into the digital sphere. This extension allows for innovative approaches to urban planning and governance. For instance, Batty [41] discusses how digital twins, virtual replicas of physical cities, are used in experimental urban areas to simulate and analyze real-world scenarios. This technological advancement enables urban planners and residents to reimagine and redesign their cities in a virtual environment before implementing changes in the real world [41,60]. Kitchin [58] also highlights how AI and ML can process vast amounts of data from sensors and IoT devices embedded in urban infrastructure, enhancing the capacity for real-time decision-making and adaptive urban management.

Furthermore, 'smart cities' combine urban imaginaries with digitalization. In smart cities, AI and ML are tools for efficient urban management and play a crucial role in shaping residents' lived experiences. They facilitate the creation of responsive environments that adapt to individual and collective needs. For instance, Neirotti et al. [61] emphasize the importance of AI in analyzing behavioral patterns and preferences, thereby personalizing urban experiences and services. This personalization is central to the evolving urban imaginary, where residents interact with their city and influence its digital manifestation [61,62] Furthermore, as Kitchin and Dodge [63] discussed, the ubiquity of information in smart cities reshapes urban interactions and experiences, enabling a more connected and informed citizenry. This connectivity fosters community and belonging, integral to the contemporary urban imaginary.

7. Implementing Urban Imaginaries – The Line {1} and Beyond

“The Line” is an innovative urban development project in Saudi Arabia, forming part of the larger NEOM megacity initiative. This futuristic city concept is designed as a 170-kilometer-long linear urban development, accommodating up to nine million residents. The design is distinct, featuring parallel rows of skyscrapers with a space between them extending from the Red Sea inland. It’s planned to be 200 meters wide and 500 meters high, surpassing the height of many structures in Europe, Africa, and Latin America. The project emphasizes sustainability, aiming to operate without cars and produce all energy with zero carbon emissions.

However, The Line has faced controversy and criticism. Human rights concerns have been raised, particularly regarding the relocation of the Huwaitat tribe, whose historic homeland is on the path of development. Approximately 20,000 tribe members are estimated to be relocated. Moreover, reports of human rights abuses connected to these evictions have emerged. From a design and livability perspective, The Line aims to revolutionize urban planning by offering vertically layered communities and challenging traditional flat, horizontal city designs. The concept envisions a “5-minute city” where essential facilities are within a short walk, complemented by an underground high-speed rail system for longer distances. The architecture is designed to keep residents close to nature, with slim-profile buildings and mirrored windows offering views of the natural surroundings. Despite these aspirations, critics question the practicality and sustainability of a linear city. The design might increase the distance between inhabitants, potentially complicating social interactions and commuting. The energy requirements for maintaining such tall buildings might also counteract the project’s sustainability goals. Construction of The Line is underway, with significant progress in excavation works and piling in various project segments. The project has involved notable architects, some of whom have withdrawn due to ecological and human rights concerns (Figure 2).

As part of Saudi Arabia’s NEOM project, the Line is a striking embodiment of the concept of urban imaginaries. Urban imaginaries refer to the visions, ideas, and aspirations that shape cities’ conception, design, and planning, often projecting future urban lifestyles and societal advancements. The Line’s 170-kilometer linear city design boldly reimagines urban life, offering a radical departure from conventional city layouts. Its structure challenges traditional urban forms by proposing a linear, vertically oriented cityscape focused on sustainability, efficiency, and human-centric design. This approach to urban development reflects a futuristic vision that redefines the relationship between urban spaces and their inhabitants. The Line’s design transcends mere architectural innovation, delving into the realm of urban utopias, where the city is not just a physical space but a manifestation of advanced urban living ideals.

Moreover, The Line’s conceptualization aligns closely with the principles of urban imaginaries by seeking to harmonize technological advancement with environmental stewardship and social well-being. It envisions a car-free, carbon-neutral environment where technology and nature coexist seamlessly, setting a new benchmark for sustainable urban development. This vision of The Line, embedded within the larger NEOM project, represents a distinct urban imaginary that prioritizes human well-being, environmental sustainability, and technological integration. However, the ambitious project also brings forth critical discussions around the feasibility, practicality, and ethical implications of such grand-scale urban imaginaries. The debate surrounding The Line underscores the complex dynamics between visionary urban planning and the multifaceted realities of execution, including socio-economic, ecological, and political considerations. Thus, The Line is a contemporary case study in the ongoing discourse of urban imaginaries, symbolizing the aspirations and challenges inherent in envisioning and materializing future cities.

The similarity between Saudi Arabia’s NEOM “The Line Project” and the imaginative worlds of Marvel Comics lies in their shared envisioning of futuristic, technologically advanced environments. NEOM’s The Line represents a real-world manifestation of a smart city, replete with cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and a high degree of automation, elements that resonate with the technologically sophisticated and often fantastical settings of Marvel’s narratives, such as the advanced, utopian city of Wakanda in the “Black Panther.” Both concepts embody a utopian ambition, where the ideal city or society transcends current limitations to achieve a harmonious blend of technology, society, and the environment. The architectural innovations proposed for The Line, with its linear, car-free, and nature-integrated design, echo the spectacular cityscapes that are a hallmark of Marvel’s comic universe. While The Line is a tangible, ambitious urban development project with real-world implications and challenges, the cities in Marvel Comics are fictional, serving as imaginative backdrops for storytelling. Yet, both share a common thread in their pursuit of creating an advanced, idealized urban future (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Urban Imaginaries in pictures: Saudi Arabia’s futuristic NEOM ‘vertical city’ The Line; Saudi Arabia has unveiled details of “The Line,” a vertical city that will eventually house around 9 million residents. Saudi Arabia has announced the designs of its “The Line” project, describing it as a “civilizational revolution that puts humans first.” The Line is 200 meters wide, 170 kilometers long, and 500 meters above sea level. Images reproduced by kind permission from ArabianBusiness Online Portal, Copyright © 2024. ITP Media Group (Collage Image)

Figure 3. Urban Imaginaries in pictures: Saudi Arabia’s futuristic NEOM ‘vertical city’ The Line; Saudi Arabia has unveiled details of “The Line,” a vertical city that will eventually house around 9 million residents. Saudi Arabia has announced the designs of its “The Line” project, describing it as a “civilizational revolution that puts humans first.” The Line is 200 meters wide, 170 kilometers long, and 500 meters above sea level. Images reproduced by kind permission from ArabianBusiness Online Portal, Copyright © 2024. ITP Media Group (Collage Image)

The Line’s vision is to be the world’s first “cognitive city,” using Al and other intelligent technologies to give people a better quality of modern life. While the quintessential urban imaginary, “The Line” presents itself as a future model for smart cities, blending prosperity, livability, newest urbanism, and starchitecture. Environmental preservation and its real-world impact on urban living, sustainability, and human rights remain subject to ongoing debate and dynamic scrutiny. NEOM's 'The Line' represents a pioneering integration of various urbanism trends we discussed before, encapsulating aspects of green urbanism with its environmental focus, reurbanism in its revitalization of a desert area, new urbanism's community-centric design, the practicality of everyday urbanism, and the forward-thinking approach of posturbanism. This project is a beacon of modern urban development, merging these diverse urban philosophies into a cohesive, innovative model. 'The Line' illustrates the practical application of these urban trends but also serves as a blueprint for future cities, showcasing how diverse urban concepts can coalesce to create sustainable, livable, and technologically advanced urban environments. It remains to be seen, if ever built if it can deliver on this promise. Urban imaginaries in rapidly developing regions like the Emirates and Saudi Arabia, particularly in burgeoning new cities such as NEOM in Saudi Arabia, sustainable Abu Dhabi, and starchitecture Dubai in the UAE, are significantly shaping the conceptualization and implementation of public transportation. These imaginaries are not just reflections of ambitious urban development but also embody a futuristic vision of urban mobility. In places we discussed briefly, such as NEOM and others like Dubai, urban imaginaries are closely tied to adopting cutting-edge technologies and sustainability principles in public transportation. The focus is on creating transport systems that are efficient, scalable, environmentally friendly, and technologically advanced. This approach is evident in projects like Dubai's autonomous drone taxis or NEOM's proposal for a hyper-connected, AI-integrated public transport network. In Abu Dhabi, urban imaginaries are actively influencing the development of public transportation to reflect a blend of modernity, sustainability, and cultural heritage. This approach is evident in the city's ambitious urban development plans, prioritizing environmentally sustainable and technologically advanced transportation systems. Projects such as the Abu Dhabi Metro and the expansion of bus services exemplify a commitment to enhancing urban mobility while reducing reliance on private vehicles. These initiatives align with the broader vision of transforming Abu Dhabi into a more connected, efficient, and environmentally friendly city. These initiatives resonate with the concepts proposed by scholars like Gossling [64], who emphasizes technology integration in urban transport, and Newman and Kenworthy's [65] work on sustainable urban mobility. Such developments are redefining the traditional notions of public transportation in the context of urban planning. They are a testament to the transformative power of urban imaginaries in shaping the future of cities in the Middle East.

8. Sustainability, Resilience, Transportation, and Spatial Justice

As we delve into the evolving urban development landscape, emerging urban paradigms that underscore resilience narratives provocatively challenge the traditional entrenched methodologies in forecasting urban futures. This critical reevaluation paves the way for city and urban and regional planners to cultivate diverse urban imaginaries, reconceptualizing alternative future vistas through a more sophisticated, interpretive lens. Such an approach amplifies the significance of engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders in visionary urban planning exercises. It accentuates the role of urban imaginaries in shaping collective aspirations and anticipations for the city’s future. These imaginaries, rich in diversity and creativity, become instrumental in sculpting a holistic understanding of the urban ecosystem, acknowledging the fluid interplay between socioeconomic dynamics and spatial configurations. They encourage planners to think beyond conventional boundaries, integrating unpredictable socio-political and environmental variables into a cohesive narrative.

The intersection of adaptability, sustainability, and resilience with urban imaginaries forms a dynamic synergy that shapes cities to not only mirror the dynamic aspirations of their communities but also endure and thrive in the face of change. Urban imaginaries, inherently forward-looking, find practical expression in the concept of adaptability, allowing cities to respond to evolving needs and circumstances flexibly. The dynamic nature of urban imaginaries aligns seamlessly with cities’ capacity to adjust, ensuring that both physical and social infrastructure remain in harmony with the evolving visions of their inhabitants. Additionally, sustainability is deeply embedded in urban imaginaries that envisage eco-friendly, resource-efficient urban futures. Sustainable development practices, such as the integration of green infrastructure and renewable energy, mirror the environmental consciousness inherent in urban imaginaries [66]. Concurrently, resilience, a fundamental element of urban imaginaries, guides cities in preparing for and rebounding from challenges. Resilient urban planning, fortified community networks, and proactive disaster preparedness align with the anticipatory and adaptive qualities envisioned in urban imaginaries [67] ensuring that cities not only withstand challenges but also flourish amidst complexities and uncertainties. The convergence of green cities and urban imaginaries shapes a vision for sustainable and environmentally conscious urban living. As collective mental constructs, urban imaginaries are crucial in envisioning cities prioritizing ecological harmony, renewable practices, and green spaces [68]. Within this framework, the concept of green cities emerges, emphasizing sustainable development, energy efficiency, and a reduced environmental footprint.

Urban imaginaries drive green city initiatives, influencing policies and urban planning strategies to align with visions of eco-friendly and resilient urban futures [65]. This intersection underscores the transformative power of collective imagination in steering urban development towards a harmonious coexistence with nature, where cities are functional and environmentally sustainable, reflecting the values and aspirations woven into the collective urban imaginary. Smart cities, characterized by integrating digital technologies and data-driven solutions, represent a paradigm shift in urban development [60]. These initiatives leverage technology to enhance residents’ efficiency, sustainability, and overall quality of life. Smart city projects encompass the deployment of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, data analytics, and intelligent infrastructure to optimize services like transportation, energy, and public safety [58]. The emphasis is on employing technology as a strategic tool to address urban challenges and create more connected, efficient, and responsive cities that align with the evolving needs of their inhabitants.

The concept of urban imaginaries plays a crucial role in shaping sustainable transportation and personal mobility within city planning and urbanism. Urban imaginaries refer to the collective visions and ideas that influence how urban environments are perceived, designed, and developed. These imaginaries directly impact how transportation systems are conceptualized and integrated into the urban fabric, emphasizing sustainability, personal mobility, and multimodal transport. Firstly, urban imaginaries focused on sustainability prioritize the development of transportation systems that minimize environmental impact. This aligns with the works of Newman and Kenworthy [65], who emphasize the importance of reducing car dependency and promoting public transit, cycling, and walking as sustainable mobility options. These ideas are further expanded by Beatley [66], who advocates for "Green Urbanism," emphasizing compact, pedestrian-friendly urban designs that support sustainable transport options. Personal mobility is another key aspect influenced by urban imaginaries. The works of Cervero and Kockelman [69] highlight the need for transportation systems that cater to diverse personal mobility needs, advocating for flexibility and accessibility. This approach is echoed by Sheller and Urry [70], who discuss the increasing importance of personal mobility in the context of evolving urban lifestyles. Furthermore, multimodal transport is a critical component of contemporary urban imaginaries. The concept of multimodal transport refers to integrating various modes into a cohesive system, such as buses, trains, bicycles, and pedestrian pathways. This idea is supported by Gossling [64], who argues for integrating different transport modes to create efficient, accessible, and user-friendly urban transportation systems. Similarly, Banister [71] emphasizes the need for transport strategies that combine various modes to maximize efficiency and convenience for urban residents. Urban imaginaries significantly influence the development of sustainable transportation, personal mobility, and multimodal transport in city planning and urbanism. These imaginaries guide the creation of urban environments that are environmentally friendly, cater to diverse personal mobility needs, and efficiently integrate various transportation modes.

Urban imaginaries serve as transformative cornerstones for smart city development, steering technologically advanced, meaningful, culturally attuned, and socially responsive initiatives. Integrating technology harmoniously with these imaginaries enables cities to become adaptive, reflective, and centered around the human experience. Including cultural identity and historical narratives ensures heritage preservation, contributing to a technologically advanced yet culturally sensitive urban landscape [13,14]. Recognizing diverse needs and aspirations outlined in urban imaginaries fosters social equity, creating a more inclusive urban fabric. Additionally, the sustainability ideals inherent in these imaginaries guide smart city initiatives toward eco-friendly, resilient solutions, aligning technology with a vision of a sustainable urban future.

Spatial justice and urban imaginaries intersect as critical components in shaping equitable and inclusive cities. The concept of spatial justice emphasizes the fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and services across different geographical areas, challenging spatial inequalities [8,11,23]. Urban imaginaries, as collective mental constructs and representations of cities, play a pivotal role in envisioning spatial justice by influencing the design and planning of urban spaces [12,36,37]. They serve as visionary forces that aspire towards spatial configurations where every resident has equal access to essential services, opportunities, and a sense of belonging [48,59]. In this intersection, urban imaginaries act as catalysts for spatial justice, inspiring policies and urban interventions that rectify historical injustices [8,23], fostering environments where diversity is acknowledged and celebrated [72,73] and where every individual, regardless of their location within the city, can thrive [80,75].

In conclusion, urban imaginaries intersect profoundly with segregation, equity, sustainability, and justice issues, serving as a visionary force for creating inclusive and fair cities. Visions of cities within these imaginaries often grapple with the historical legacy of segregation, envisioning urban spaces that dismantle spatial and social divisions. Urban imaginaries prioritizing equity aspire toward the fair distribution of resources and opportunities, challenging systemic disparities and fostering environments where every resident can access essential services and opportunities. Moreover, the pursuit of justice within urban imaginaries inspires policies and initiatives that rectify historical injustices, aiming for fair governance, community engagement, and the protection of human rights. In essence, urban imaginaries act as catalysts for shaping cities that are not only architecturally innovative but also socially and spatially just, striving to create environments where diversity is embraced and every individual can thrive.

9. Coda - Happy Urban Imaginations

Recent scholarly discourses on urban imaginaries have endeavored to transcend the limitations inherent in a gendered, Western-centric perspective on urbanism. This intellectual pursuit involves a comprehensive examination of urban imaginaries across diverse media and geographies, with the explicit aim of de-centering and expanding prevailing conceptualizations of the city [36,80] Such an undertaking assumes heightened relevance given the array of complex challenges that cities confront on a global scale today. These challenges encompass dynamic issues such as environmental upheavals [66], pervasive social inequalities [8], the intricate web of transnational migration [83], and the growing trend of privatizing public spaces and services [35], among many other multifaceted concerns. Urban imaginaries must be seen in a framework of global urbanism. In that sense, “TransUrbanism” seems appropriate: it represents a fusion of urbanism and transformation, a synthesis of urbanism and globalization [37,76]. In this urban paradigm, the city transcends its traditional characterization as a localizable spatial unit, evolving into an expansive ‘urban field’ defined more by a collection of activities than a rigid material structure [11,21]. Present-day urban imaginary cities navigate a dynamic state of continuous decomposition and simultaneous reorganization, experiencing cycles of expansion and contraction [57]. As a planning and design strategy, TransUrbanism [76] enables cities to function as intricate systems where small local structures seamlessly integrate with global flows [76,77]. This approach acknowledges the complexity of modern urban dynamics, facilitating the harmonious coexistence of local and global influences within the urban fabric [37,80].

In the case of happy cities, the urban imaginary is centered on creating urban spaces that actively contribute to the happiness and well-being of their residents. This involves considering factors like social connectivity, accessibility, green spaces, and opportunities for active, community-based lifestyles. The focus is on designing cities that are efficient or aesthetically pleasing, nurturing, and supportive of those living their mental and emotional well-being [86]. This concept challenges traditional urban planning models that often prioritize economic growth, infrastructure development, and technological advancement, sometimes at the expense of social and personal well-being [6]. Instead, the happy cities approach emphasizes human-centered design, suggesting that the accurate measure of a city’s success is how well it meets the needs and desires of its inhabitants [3]. Happy cities are a sort of urban imaginary because they represent a visionary approach to urban development, which prioritizes the happiness and well-being of residents and seeks to create urban spaces conducive to achieving these goals. This vision influences everything from urban policy to architectural design, reflecting a broader shift in how we think about and plan our urban environments [1,34].

While well-intentioned, “The Happy Cities” and “Happiness in Cities” as an Urban Imaginary run the risk of oversimplification of complex urban issues and their one-size-fits-all approach to urban planning. Pursuing happiness as a central urban planning objective can inadvertently sideline critical socio-economic and cultural factors, leading to the neglect of deeper structural problems such as inequality, poverty, equity, and social exclusion. The happy cities paradigm, emphasizing aesthetics, green spaces, walkability, security, and recreational facilities, may privilege specific demographics while failing to address the needs of marginalized communities. Additionally, this concept often hinges on subjective interpretations of happiness, which can vary widely across different cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds, raising questions about whose vision of happiness is being prioritized and implemented. That notwithstanding, urban imaginaries are about envisioning future possibilities for urban spaces. They are not just plans or designs; they embody people’s hopes, dreams, and aspirations for urban environments. These imaginaries influence how cities are planned, designed, and managed, reflecting the values and priorities of the societies that create them. So, the evolving and developing concept of “happy cities” can be understood as a form of urban imaginaries because it involves envisioning and aspiring toward a specific idea of what cities could and should be like focusing mainly on the happiness and well-being of their inhabitants (Figure 4).

Figure 4. Urban Imaginaries in pictures: Aspiring toward a specific idea of what cities could and should be like focusing mainly on the happiness and well-being of their inhabitants and mix of functions with accessibility and availability of services and good places to be in. Image generated by and with Midjourney AI MUSE AI Tools

This article presented a critical conceptual analysis of the relationship between urban imaginaries and the multifaceted evolution of cities regarding how collective mental constructs encapsulate diverse cultural, social, and economic dimensions that influence city revitalization, cultural preservation, and sustainability. This conceptual paper thoroughly explored the intricate relationship between urban imaginaries and the multifaceted evolution of cities. Urban imaginaries, seen as collective mental constructs embodying cultural, social, and economic dimensions, profoundly influenced city revitalization, cultural preservation, and sustainability. The paper also delved into how these imaginaries guided urban planners and encouraged community involvement, steering urban development towards equitable and sustainable futures. It discussed the impact of “starchitecture” as a tangible embodiment of urban imaginaries and their role in shaping cityscapes and cultural narratives. Placemaking was also examined for its integration of urban imaginaries into lived experiences, thereby fostering community identity and a sense of belonging. The paper highlighted the symbiotic relationship between urbanism and imaginaries, focusing on adaptability, sustainability, and resilience. It also featured a case study on the emerging Gulf urbanism and discussed the concepts of happy cities and the livability of urban imaginaries. The paper finally concluded by addressing the intersection of spatial justice and urban imaginaries, emphasizing the formation of equitable, inclusive, and sustainable cities within the “TransUrbanism” framework, presenting urban imaginaries as transformative forces in shaping urban environments through globalization, modernization, transformation, and urbanization.

Special Acknowledgements

Dr. Tigran Haas would like to thank especially Professor Edward Glaeser, Professor Richard Florida, Professor Matthew Carmona, Professor Krister Olsson, Professor Folke Snickars, Professor Hans Westlund, and Professor Saskia Sassen for the discussion on the subject of city planning and urban development as well as urban futures; A big thanks goes to my colleague Dr. Peter Brokking for the discussions on urban imaginaries and his inclusion of this thematic into our graduate course AG2151 Urban Development and City Planning at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, which sparked the idea for this positional, thematic and research paper.

Notes

{1}. The information about “The Line” project in Saudi Arabia was based on various sources. Here are the references used to gather and synthesize the information: Phys.org discussed The Line's urban design and sustainability aspects, providing insights into the project's impact on urban living and environmental considerations. Dezeen.com offered a critical perspective on the Neom project, highlighting concerns about sustainability, livability, and human rights, especially regarding the impact on the Huwaitat tribe. Dataconomy.com provided details on The Line’s vision, planning, and design principles, including its aspirations to revolutionize urban living, focusing on human-centric design and nature preservation. Wikipedia’s entry on NEOM ‘the Line’, Saudi Arabia, offered comprehensive information about the project's construction progress, architectural aspects, and reception, including concerns about its sustainability and impact on local communities. The Marvel Studios Story: “How a Failing Comic Book Publisher Became a Hollywood Superhero” by Charlie Wetzel and Stan Lee gives insights into the Marvel Universe, including its creative processes and how it conceptualizes its futuristic cities and narratives. These specific sources were used to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the project, covering its objectives, design, controversies, and criticisms.

Further Suggested Reading on Urban Futures and Imaginaries

Aureli, P. V. (2014). The City as a Project. Berlin: Ruby Press.

Bender, T., & Çınar, A. (Eds.). (2007). Urban Imaginaries: Locating the Modern City. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.

Gehl, J. (2010). Cities for People. Washington, D.C.: Island Press.

Green, B. (2019). The Smart Enough City: Putting Technology in Its Place to Reclaim Our Urban Future. Cambridge, US: The MIT Press.

Holling, C. S. (2012). Resilience, Adaptation, and Transformation in Turbulent Times. Berlin: Springer.

Jacobs, J. (1961). The Death and Life of Great American Cities. New York, NY: Random House.

Lindner, C., & Meissner, M. (Eds.). (2019). The Routledge Companion to Urban Imaginaries. London and New York: Routledge.

Lynch, K. (1960). The Image of the City. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.

Montgomery, C. (2013). Happy City: Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design. New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux.

Ponzini, D., & Nastasi, M. (2011). Starchitecture: Scenes, Actors and Spectacles in Contemporary Cities. New York: Monacelli Press/Phaidon.

Soja, E. W. (2010). Seeking Spatial Justice. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.

Solnit, R., & Jelly-Schapiro, J. (2016). Non-Stop Metropolis: A New York City Atlas. Oakland, CA: University of California Press.

Thomas, D. (2016). Placemaking: An Urban Design Methodology. London and New York: Routledge.

Townsend, A. M. (2013). Smart Cities: Big Data, Civic Hackers, and the Quest for a New Utopia. New York: W. W. Norton & Company.

Venturi, R., Izenour, S., & Scott-Brown, D. (1977). Learning from Las Vegas - Revised Edition: The Forgotten Symbolism of Architectural Form. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.

Westwood, S., & Williams, J. (1997). Imagining Cities: Scripts, Signs, Memory. London: Routledge.

Donald, J. (1999). Imagining the Modern City. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.

Koolhaas, R. (1997). Delirious New York: A Retroactive Manifesto for Manhattan. New York: The Monacelli Press (Original Edition 1978).

Low, S. (2022). Why Public Space Matters. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Philippopoulos-Mihalopoulos, A. (2014). Spatial Justice: Body, Lawscape, Atmosphere. London and New York: Routledge.

About the Author

Dr. Tigran Haas is an Associate Professor at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, where his expertise and research focus primarily on contemporary trends and paradigms in urban planning and design as well as public spaces and urban places. His work encompasses new urbanism, sustainable urbanism, social housing, urban transformations, and city development. Dr. Haas is particularly interested in how these areas intersect with societal issues such as aging, design, and the medicalization of urban form. His notable contributions to the field include several key works such as “New Urbanism & Beyond - Designing Cities for the Future” (2008) and “Sustainable Urbanism & Beyond - Rethinking Cities for the Future” (2012), both published by Rizzoli. He has also co-edited “Emergent Urbanism” with Krister Olsson, which was reissued by Routledge in 2014. Additionally, Dr. Haas collaborated with Hans Westlund on the award-winning book “IN THE POST-URBAN WORLD” (2018), which won the first prize from the Regional Studies Association in the UK as the book of the year. Beyond his 100+ scholarly publications, Dr. Haas is actively involved in various research projects. These include Urban Form and Human Behavior studies, Authenticity in Contextual Cities, Urban Loneliness, Public Space Database, and Synchronicity and the City. Tigran Haas also plays a significant role in the academic community, teaching graduate and postgraduate courses, supervising PhD and Master's students, and sitting on the editorial boards of several urban studies and planning journals. Dr. Haas's involvement also extends to the international academic community, having been a visiting guest scholar at MIT's LCAU Centre for Advanced Urbanism, Media Lab from 2018 to 2025. His ongoing contributions to urbanism make him notable in urban studies and city planning, particularly in the evolving global urban landscape.

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