Each region in the world is a superimposition of the complex internal networks and systems within it. Each region is unique in its composition. The culture of any region (city or country) is a physical manifestation of its organic growth. There is more to what meets the eye.
There are some key factors and influences that have shaped them. These include history, faith, terrain, social structures, and traditions, which mould the rich tapestry of the different cultures worldwide.
These aspects highlight the shared origins of global cultures despite the seemingly vast differences at the surface. When explored individually, each region exhibits distinct cultures in which the foundational elements of regional origins intertwine to shape distinct identities and traditions.
This article navigates the impact of regional planning on the lifestyle and culture of its inhabitants.
Understanding Emerging Cultures in a Region
The culture of a place depends on its day-to-day lifestyle. It is the externality of complex networks and systems that have evolved. It originates from its geographical terrains and expands as per social requirements. This process is gradual and dynamic. It continuously evolves and adapts to the shifts in societal values, beliefs, and trends.
Conversely, tangible infrastructures such as transport, healthcare, waste management, social, and green-blue and intangibles such as the traditions, inhabitants’ aspirations, global influence, and trends also encompass various aspects of regional life. These interconnected systems drive the day-to-day experiences of the inhabitants.
Role of Planning in the day-to-day experience of any Region
Irrespective of the area scale – city, neighbourhood, or street level, impactful planning enhances the quality of life and social interactions. It is crucial to consider the long-term vision while planning. It is also necessary to address the short-term setbacks. This allows space for interventions that are effective immediately.
The planning of any region is contextually influenced by its geographical, and socio-political context. These are the key factors based on which a city evolves organically and forms the basis of its future development vision. For example, areas with a hot and dry environment will focus on water conservation and management. The regions with coasts will focus on strategies addressing the risk of sea level rise and coastal protection.
At a regional level – inter and intra-level connectivity is crucial. This is for transportation systems, water, solid waste management, and even green networks. This is considered the foundation of infrastructure systems. It results in a well-organized and easy-to-move-around network for the inhabitants and visitors.
The transforming values and preferences of the local population shape the planning decisions. This creates the cultural identity of the region. It is necessary to address the social dynamics of the region. Planning a region based on this consideration ensures inclusive planning that caters to different and evolving cultural practices. This accommodates activities that focus on the traditions specific to the region. The impact of the planning system is experienced day-to-day.
Impact of Architecture on the Region’s Culture
The buildings of a region are dependent on geography, built-form regulations, and the architectural designs in trend. It reflects the demography and the changing trends of community living. The built forms and the spatial organization reveal cultural priorities, societal values, and aspirations.
This involves the collaboration of fields such as architecture, urban design, and engineering. The building design expresses the climate, aspirations, demography, history, and highly sought-after aesthetics of the locals. For instance, a compact and dense urban layout with towering built forms reflects the high population and limited availability of land area. Many built forms have embraced the idea of vertical developments influenced by globalization and have contemporary influences. Architects are exploring how these buildings can respond to their surroundings effectively – in terms of social and climatic response.
These architectural choices further influence the sense of community, identity, and belonging. Shared architectural forms contribute to a unified sense of place and cultural continuity. The intersection of architectural expression and culture provides valuable insights into history, present conditions, and future vision.
Additionally, the design and functionality of buildings can impact how people use and perceive public spaces, affecting their quality of life and well-being, thus shaping the social fabric and creating a cultural identity for the place.
The Region’s Structure & the Inhabitants’ Lifestyle
A region’s spatial structure and comprehensive envisioned planning shape its physical environment. It sets a framework for social and economic activities. The vision’s impact can be observed during natural calamities and the ability of its emergency services to respond within the critical timeframe.
Till the early 2000s, Mumbai’s urbanscape included cobblers, plastic and book re-cyclers, clock & kitchen equipment repair shops, and flour mills. These amenities were society-based and located within walking distance. This explains that the lifestyle included circular use and management of materials. This contributes to a sustainable way of life at a community level. These amenities are now sparse. The practices should be reclaimed as a path toward a sustainable future.
Similarly, in some regions, the infrastructure includes a wide & connected system of pathways, pedestrian utilities, clean water systems, planned cycling tracks, and a strict cap on private vehicle use. This encourages the inhabitants to progress with an active and healthy lifestyle. Cities such as Singapore and Warsaw practice this.
Preserving The Culture, and Vision for the Future
Each region has specific areas and buildings with historical and cultural significance. With modernization and current conditions, the priorities are on function and climate responsiveness instead of intricate designs. The focus is on fast-paced construction with minimal aesthetic detailing, amplifying functional responsiveness. It is important to accept with the changing times, the priority on historical built forms reduces. The priority is to provide built forms that enable quick execution. With this change, there is a transformation in innovative engineering and construction technologies.
Given this, the historic and cultural districts are preserved as a symbol of the past. It keeps the landmark identity and visually expresses the region’s long-gone history. This requires a comprehensive approach that balances protecting the cultural heritage with the on-ground demands of regional development.
For instance, long-term conservation plans should highlight the distinct strategies that meet specific goals. These steps ensure the protection and maintenance of the district. Encouraging adaptive reuse of aesthetically worn-out structures allows them to be converted into contemporary uses while retaining their heritage character. Materializing this process requires prioritizing the funding channels. This is possible through public-private partnerships and private investments in exchange for financial incentives, tax credits, and grants to property owners. In-depth site research and legal protections for these districts allow the creation of secure zones that prohibit illegal alterations or demolitions.
Conclusion
Planning for a comprehensive, sustainable shift for a region begins with analyzing its existing systems and resources. It includes altering existing policies and planning methods. It prioritizes the scope based on the inhabitant’s requirements, such as housing, transportation, and work environment. This creates an environment that promotes convenience, safety, good health, and cultural enrichment. These strategies will ultimately shape their day-to-day culture and lifestyle.
References:
- Hall, S. (2012) City Street and Citizen – The Measure of the Ordinary. London & New York: Routledge
- Stavrides, S. (2016). Common Space – The City as Commons. London: Zed Books Ltd
- Certeau, M. (1984). The Practice of Everyday Life. Berkeley & Los Angeles: University of California Press
- Ascher, K. (2005). The Works – Anatomy of a City. New York: The Penguin Press
- Shaftoe, H. (2008). Convivial Urban Spaces. London & Verling: Earthscan
- UNESCO, (2016). Culture Urban Future. Paris: UNESCO
