Toogtyve

Civic Design Lecture Reflection 12.4.2010

When discussing Civic Design in class I can't help but see the parallels between civic thought and the traditional methods of Danish design as a general entity. So much of DD is focused on the people as a whole and what will help benefit the masses. It seems that Danish designer are already quite civic minded. With that being said most Danish designed elements of the city benefit the people as well as the environment due to government enforced taxation, laws and zoning rules. Because of these elements the way in which the Dane's live is highly more sustainable then that of the average American. Furthermore Danish lifestyles and practices are shaped by the designs around them.

Because Copenhagen specifically has such a strong public transport system and sense of strong city life civic design become evermore important. It seems most Dane's truly use the "One-story," city as their living room and large part of life. Copenhagen has done a great job at revitalizing important public space. Because of this Danes take pride in preserving the quality of life within the city creating civic pride. The sustainable city is adopted as part of each individuals dwelling thus impact the way Dane's live within their homes.

I'm not so sure if it's a common European tradition to have design competitions for things such as phone booths and bus stops but we certainly do not take the same care at home. I have been impressed throughout the semester with the little details around Copenhagen...such as the side walks. While my friends and I were convinced the paved areas were for heel wearing pedestrians it makes perfect sense that the stone are easy to pop up and access plumbing lines. Such initiatives and well though out civic design is what makes Copenhagen function as a well oiled machine. Copenhagen has adopted the identity of a happy livable place to life. I think a lot of this can be credited to not only civic pride but quality of civic design. Strong qually in form and function. So Danish.