Generative processes for revitalizing historic towns or heritage districts

Abstract

Essentially this article advocates the adoption and use of dynamic generative processes for town and neighborhood development vs the use of static blueprints of ‘master plans’ that produce fabricated built environments. Instead, those that are the product of generative processes have attributes that can be described as dynamic complex adaptive environments that embody the virtues of complexity and sustainability. The article also discusses the components of a generative program and how they are utilized for revitalization projects that are located within historic towns or heritage areas. Two case studies – Albuquerque, New Mexico and Muharraq and Manama, Bahrain – are discussed to show how the principles of a generative program are applied. Over time, the results of such a program for revitalization will maintain the integrity, characteristics, and sense of place of the area by avoiding the static results that freezes the built environment and produces museums that are of interest to tourists rather than the people living there.