This international conference aims to bring together academics, practitioners and students from the three networks in Asia (Great Asian Streets Symposium), Pacific Rim (Pacific Rim Community Design Network) and the U.S. (Design Corps and SEED Network) to share multiple perspectives on Emerging Civic Urbanisms and Designing for Social Impact. 

With rising awareness of the impacts of environmental degradation and growing social and economic polarisation, various forms of civic urbanisms are emerging around the world as an alternative to the growth-oriented and market-driven urban development of the past. This implies an awakened desire for a new paradigm in society based on more sustainable ways of life, which contributed to the increased interest in communal life and shared identities in localities, with greater emphasis on well-being, quality of life, social inclusion, environmental consciousness, and active participation of citizens in decision-making. 

In a fast changing political and social context, this conference draws attention to the possibilities and challenges that we face while moving towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. It provides a timely platform for scholars, professionals and students interested in contemporary urbanisation and its future trajectories to question and reflect upon the ways we approach our built environment through various planning and design processes to inspire new visions of urbanism.

Symposium Themes

Main theme: 
Emerging Civic Urbanisms / Designing for Social Impact

Sub-themes: 
Grassroots advocacy and activism
Collaborative/citizen-driven placemaking
Heritage conservation
Community building and engagement
Urban commons and sharing city
Environmental well-being

Register HERE or contact gass2018@nus.edu.sg for more information