RETROFITTING SUBURBIA THROUGH SYSTEMIC DENSIFICATION: THE CASE OF THE METROPOLITAN REGION OF BARCELONA

摘要

The question of how to transform suburbs into sustainable neighborhoods lies at the forefront of current planning research. However; many infill and redevelopment efforts remain piecemeal. This article argues that systemic densification can increase the benefits of retrofitting. In particular, the authors propose smart densification processes designed to transform collector roads into pedestrian-friendly streets and watercourses into local parks. Such a densification approach can attract growth and enhance pedestrian access to transportation, daily services, and neighborhood facilities. The proposal is illustrated with an example from the Metropolitan Region of Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain). The authors suggest that only a holistic understanding of suburbs will allow planners to implement successful strategies for systemic densification that increase residents' quality of life.