Anticipative Processes in the Regeneration of Built Environment Through Major Events

Abstract

This contribution illustrates some possible applications of futures studies – more specifically of the anticipative processes – in the regeneration of the built environment, in relation to other contemporary issues like sustainable development, strategic planning, creativity and major events. In the built environment field, increased complexity and unpredictability have encouraged the exploration of possible scenarios, in an attempt to control change and influence the future. In this context, visioning practices and the extensive participation of stakeholders emerge as alternatives to traditional planning and design methods, providing a way to effectively and efficiently manage the transformation of an area or at least to give direction. The report on some questions of method (allowing the association of project practices to those of anticipation, while focusing on the sustainability and resilience of urban contexts) is followed by a discussion of major events viewed as exercises of anticipation supporting urban regeneration.