Systematic Study and Reflection on Planning Paradigms of German Urban Renewal

Abstract

Urban renewal plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable spatial development and structural growth for cities in respect of urban planning and landscape architecture. It is defined as a complex process involving demographic, physical and socio-economic dimensions. The time-tested process of urban renewal in Germany has provided both theoretical and practical experience for the rest of the world. In this context, a systematic and diachronic method is adopted to elaborate on three planning paradigms of German urban renewal. Reflective of the prosperity and reconstruction, structural changes and shrinking process of cities, the critical evolution of urban renewal planning paradigms is subjected to the profound influence from spatial, historic, social, and political factors in different periods. Therefore, according to the needs for urban development, this study focuses on analyzing three essential paradigms of total-demolition reconstruction, careful urban renewal and critical reconstruction, and urban regeneration. On this basis, the evolution of urban renewal is reflected on from such perspectives as institutional guarantee of the federal-state-local framework, the financial support through multiple funding projects, and the critical urban landscape conceptions. In conclusion, there are three aspects of planning paradigms. The first one is critical thinking as a key factor in the scientific analysis of urban spaces and structures. The second one is a full understanding of urban renewal based on the establishment of a complex system. The last one is the positive changes to the evolution of cities and the formation of resilient urban landscapes in the future.