Shira de Bourbon Parme is an outstanding figure in the field of urbanism and social anthropology, bringing a vibrant and creative approach to the intersection of social science and urban design in an effort to generate development with a profound impact.
In her view, in the modern world of urban design, it is not enough merely to apply technical and aesthetic knowledge to create spaces. To ensure that there is a positive and lasting impact, it is essential to have a deep understanding of the culture, identity and values of the communities in which we work. In this era of globalization, sensitivity to cultural heritage and diversity of identities is more important than ever. It is a well-known fact that some populations are more vulnerable than others, and this vulnerability can be linked to cultural, social, physical or economic factors.
In our design process, we find it imperative to be highly sensitive to local particularities and diversity of cultural identities. Every decision, from the overall strategy to the choice of materials, must reflect this awareness. It is vital to interact directly with communities to avoid assumptions and to really understand the essence of their behavior and relationships.
To avoid traditional top-down approaches and to ensure the authenticity of projects, she recommends co-design processes.
This means building your relationships locally, working not only with partners and clients, but also with community members and various organizations. You strive to reach individuals who don’t always speak up, but whose voice is just as important. The goal is to integrate projects in a way that makes people feel like owners. After the projects are completed, the community will still live in and interact with the spaces created, so it is essential to give them an opportunity to contribute and influence the final outcome.
Ultimately, urban design is not just about making a plan and implementing it. It is an ongoing, ever-evolving process that requires constant adaptation and a sensitive approach. In the past, we might have had strictly defined, top-down urban design plans, says Shira. Today, we have to try to create a system of catalysts for development and change. It’s essential to provide space for this process to happen so that places continue to grow and evolve organically. This is the beauty and challenge of urban design in the 21st century. Let’s explore it together!
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This project is part of the national cultural program “Timișoara – European Capital of Culture in 2023” and is financed through the Grow Timișoara 2023 program, carried out by the Project Center of Timișoara Municipality, with funds allocated from the state budget, through the budget of the Ministry of Culture.
The Night-Art Festival is presented by George, the first smart banking.
Sponsors: Fan Courier, Iulius Town, ATP Motors, Pepsi
Project partners: Leeds City Council, In-Edu Association Timișoara, German Cultural Center Timișoara, Cluj Cultural Center, West University Timișoara, University of Art and Design Cluj-Napoca, Polytechnic University of Timișoara
Communication partners: Getica OOH, Aushopping galleries, Kiss Fm, Euromedia, Pressone.ro, G4Media.ro, World Wide Print, Daisler Print House, Știri din România, Tion, Express de Banat, IQOOL, Zile și Nopți, Știri de Timișoara, NewsVest, Adevărul, TVR, Radio Timișoara, România Pozitivă, Best of Timișoara
