Global Design and Development Trends

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.