Today’s lecture we looked at case studies around the world,
going to Paris in a few weeks myself made me interested to Blog about what can
be learnt from this city. The two key lessons in which can be learnt from Paris
in my view are all about its 1) Unique design and 2) Transport, and how
important these two are in creating a sense of place. This sense of place I
believe from seeing pictures and hearing stories is what makes Paris one of the
most visited cities in Europe.
Design:
Paris has strict building codes
and shows that high density does not mean sky scraper cities, as in the case of
places such New York. Instead it shows that 4-5 stories high are enough to
cater for a growing population. I think this is important lesson for Canberra,
as in a recent article in the Canberra times spoke about how Canberra’s were
scared of high density in reference to the Woden proposal. The Parisian
approach is about ascetically pleasing mix use medium density which I believe
could be the perfect compromise in Canberra. I think one negative thing that
can be learnt from Paris is to not go against the sense of place, In the case
of the concrete monstrosity on the outskirts of the city which can be seen
below. This is wrong as it goes against the building codes and sense of place
which has been created in the city.
Classic Parisian design
(Nakanishi,2007)
La Defence (concrete jungle?)
(Nakanish,2007)
Transport:
Lots of transport options and lots of investment into the
transport network. I think the really innovative thing Is that the government
and transport operators are continually investing more money into public
transport to make better access and equality for all citizens. From the lecture
it could be counted they had decent 1) trams 2) buses 3) Trains 4) Bikes. Most
which can be seen below. I really liked the bikes. I think a system like this
encourages people to enjoy the streets is good for everyone and creating that
Parisian sense of place that the world has come to love.
(Nakanishi, 2012)
My final thoughts:
I cannot wait to experience Paris in a few weeks! I think
they are successful in creating a sense of place by encouraging people to walk
the streets through public transport alternatives to car travel and by clever
design. I think Canberra can learn from the variety that is offered in
transport and the alternative to high density housing.
X
I agree about the bikes, such a great way to experience a city. Also like the point about the high density that is still aesthetically pleasing. Do you think it would still work in Canberra without the historical architectural style?
ReplyDeleteThanks for commenting. In my opinion it definatly can. Canberra is young, therefore our architecture cannot be historical, however we can use this to our advantage to create a modern town centre. If creative enough, in a place like Civic we could turn it into an eco-city. Something along the lines of the modern eco city like Hammarby Sjöstad in Stolkholm, Sweden. This developmenthouses 25,000 people in 11,000 apartment blocks which are all conencted to good public transport (80% of trips in the area use public transport) and green spaces. The link has some ideas on what I am talking about.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.sweden.se/eng/Home/Society/Sustainability/Reading/Facing-the-future/
Excellent overview. Good point about density. Good example from Sweden. I really like the North-european ideas of being 'eco'.Enjoy Paris! Mixture of historical buildins and innovative ideas.
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