Charles Landry, an urban sociologist and essayist, is credited with pioneering the concept of the "creative city," which he introduced in the 1980s. Landry was invited to Italy by the Salone del Mobile to provide an introductory speech at the launch of the Milan Design (Eco) System research project. His talk centred on the importance of urban regeneration through creativity and the role of cities in becoming spaces that contribute to the common good.
In his remarks, Landry emphasised that Milan, a city with a rich history of design, has the potential to evolve beyond being a hub for design "of" the world to one for design "for" the world. He argued that while Milan is already recognised as a centre of design, it must adopt a more ethical approach, focusing on design that serves broader societal needs rather than merely aiming for global prestige.
Landry highlighted that cities consist of various interconnected elements such as people, activities, and infrastructure, which are often overlooked in their entirety. For Milan to maintain its position as a leading city of design, Landry called for greater collaboration between public institutions, the private sector, NGOs, and academic bodies. Only through this kind of comprehensive approach, he suggested, can cities like Milan unlock the creative potential necessary for urban regeneration.
When questioned about the role of creativity in urban development, Landry acknowledged that while creativity is often perceived as a spontaneous act, it can also be structured and directed to benefit entire communities. He argued that a balance between divergent thinking (which encourages open-ended creativity) and convergent thinking (focused on problem-solving) is essential. Landry described creativity as a combination of hard work and occasional flashes of inspiration, stressing that all individuals have the capacity to enhance their creative abilities.
Landry also offered examples of other cities that have successfully integrated creativity into urban design. Helsinki and Copenhagen were highlighted as models of cities that prioritise quality of life and have embraced design as a means to foster sustainable living environments. Helsinki, for example, employed heated pavements to combat ice and snow, demonstrating practical and thoughtful design solutions. Meanwhile, Copenhagen has prioritised cycling routes, ensuring that cycling is not only convenient but also a preferred mode of transport.
Landry noted how the Covid-19 pandemic had transformed urban living, particularly in terms of work patterns and the distances people now travel. With remote working becoming more common, large cities have seen reduced pressure, with many seeking refuge in smaller towns. For instance, Stroud in Gloucestershire has benefited from this shift, gaining recognition as one of the UK's best places to live due to its creative community.
However, Landry acknowledged the challenges posed by gentrification, particularly in cities undergoing regeneration. As urban spaces attract greater numbers, the risk of pushing out existing communities and small businesses rises. He warned that market forces alone cannot resolve these issues and advocated for public regulations and incentives to ensure that regeneration is inclusive and sustainable.
Regarding the role of the arts in urban renewal, Landry highlighted the complex relationship between creativity and gentrification. While artistic expression can enhance urban life and attract investment, it also has the potential to drive up property values, making cities less accessible to long-standing communities. Landry emphasised the need for public-private partnerships and policies that prioritise affordable housing and cooperative living initiatives to counteract this trend.
Reflecting on his approach to cities, Landry expressed a keen interest in graffiti and street art, viewing them as powerful tools of self-expression that reveal a city's underlying social issues. These forms of creative expression often reflect frustrations and offer insights into the lived experiences of urban residents. Landry's fascination with graffiti stems from his belief that it captures the untapped potential of individuals, pointing to ways in which collective energy can foster urban transformation.
In conclusion, Landry's insights reinforce the importance of creativity, collaboration, and thoughtful urban planning in shaping the future of cities like Milan. By adopting a more inclusive and ethical approach, Milan has the opportunity to enhance its status as a global design capital while ensuring that urban regeneration benefits all its citizens.
More information:
Salone del Mobile.Milano
www.salonemilano.it