These lectures will expand the knowledge on urban economics and new economies in cities, paying particular attention to how cities can grow and react to external forces that affect the city. This seminar will explore the socio?economic dimensions of sustainable urban transformation, analysing governance, innovation and the changes in production, distribution and consumption in cities.
It will introduce the basic urban economic concepts to understand how some economic principles might be relevant in designing and managing our cities. Case studies from Barcelona will be used to learn best practices and failures, comparing them to other cases worldwide. During the seminar, we will gain an understanding of concepts such as urban challenges, platform urbanism, knowledge-based economy, sustainable development goals, and circular economy.
Lastly, this seminar will also count with the intervention of a few experts that will share their experience in some topics related to the content of the course. They will provide participants with a valuable opportunity to explore ongoing urban innovation projects aimed at creating more resilient and sustainable cities while expanding the way cities are being conceptualised.
During the course the students will apply theoretical knowledge to analyse and understand the past, present and future of specific areas of the city. Each session will end with the review of the case studies, sharing insights and encouraging the students to engage in understanding the analysis being presented. This methodology will consolidate the theory into practical exercises, understanding how different layers of analysis might provide valuable information for further proposals.
At course completion the student will:
A digital tool proposed to re-boost the economy of Ciutat Vella, Barcelona Overview Ciutat Vella being the oldest district of the city of Barcelona was founded in the 1500 BC. The Ciutat Vella district was a very important economic hub for Barcelona. But in the recent times, the district faces problems that are characterised by … Read more
The Zona Franca in Barcelona is an area that receives thousands of workers everyday and, having The Port, is one of the main points of contact of the city with the rest of the world. Through a quick analysis based on an understanding of the site, questions and issues within Barcelona’s ‘Free-Trade’ zone are tackled … Read more
The city of Barcelona has a history of change through impulses. No part of the city is more representative of this trend than Montjuïc. Throughout the 20th century, the area has undergone a number of spatial and social transformations which have typically occurred in short spaces of time. In this short study, we argue that … Read more
Catalyzing Innovation in 22@Nord Barcelona’s 22@Nord district, often referred to as the former “Catalan Manchester,” is poised to become the epicenter of digital knowledge and innovation. This transformation aligns with Barcelona’s commitment to technology, engagement, and education, setting the stage for the implementation of the Valor del Districte Platform to support resident and public investment … Read more
