Description:

Our cities are more open than ever. Not only in terms of spatial permeabitlity, but also as interdependent systems that are crossed by all sorts of material, energy, informational and cultural flows. 

The open nature of urban societies allows for enormous potential for exchange, encounter and interaction. At the same time, this openness also renders the system  vulnerable. The same openness that allows for people to have access to the latest scientific advancements, that enables people to travel around the world and connect with strangers online and offline, also creates the conditions for cyberattacks, terrorism and pandemics. Openness makes cities resilient, but also incredibly fragile. 

The study of boundaries (or the lack there of) is crucial to understand how cities work. This project studies the role of boundaries — tangible and intangible — in the creation and support of urban systems. More specifically, it deals with the challenges and dilemmas of openness in the city.

Watch this video to learn more about Open Urbanisms in the work.