Changing concepts of urban space in a digital era

Abstract

Just like the Industrial Revolution revolutionised the world, and the Renaissance enhanced it, so the Digital era has accelerated into the twenty-first century, bringing with it endless possibilities, but demanding its own agenda of change. Architecture and urban design have not escaped the mechanical clutches of this digital revolution, and its social and cultural implications. Physical variables that define static spaces are now influenced by technological variables, too. Proximity has been overridden by digital inventions, creating an added dimension to the definition of space. Since without physical space there would be no urban design practice, the digital era and the innovations it brings must not be ignored by planners and designers anymore. There is a difference of opinion in related literature however, as to the means and extent such a phenomenon has had on society. For example, theorists are divided as to whether on-line socialisation of the electronic era has actually benefited society or merely introduced added problems to an already complicated digital world. A consequence of which, and of major concern to this dissertation, is the degrading of the urban realm which has failed to keep up with man's fast-paced virtual lifestyle. This study investigates the extent the digital era has had on urban space, its users and society as a whole, by analysing both the local and foreign scenario at present. The way in which particular places are used and their ability to adapt was also observed, and the study looks at the various attitudes users have on such spaces and their ability to cater for their specific needs. The consequences of the findings have important implications, both for contemporary urban design, as well as future planning strategies.