A group of architectural and development professionals and thinkers discuss their views about recent trends across the globe.
An excerpt from the discussion:
What trends do you see in the ways cities are addressing the challenges of increasing densification?
Binh Vinh: The concentration of services in megacities requires greater use of energy and resources, and results in a greater production of waste. Shanghai is trying to be another New York. Hong Kong wants to be another Shanghai. But denser and taller cities consume more energy resources. In 20 years, we’ll probably need to break down these megapolises and start connecting smaller cities with fast transit. The focus will be on building livable communities instead of huge megacities. People want employment and convenient services, but also access to water, trees, and the natural environment.
...How are developers and corporations looking at cities in terms of deciding where to build or relocate? What new factors are playing the most prominent roles in those decisions?
Gordon Feller: The most sophisticated developers see the connections between the success of the city and the success of their projects. If you can invest in a place that is smart about its role in the global market, you reduce risk. There’s a lot of uncertainty as to which cities will remain competitive. Your investment in your project is only one componentâ€"you need smart government leaders.
FULL STORY: Dialogue: Global Design and Development Trends

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie