Studio 05

Inten_CITY

Benjamin Lau

This studio is available to students enrolled in ABPL90169 Design Thesis.

Studio Description

The world population is predicted to peak at 9.4 billion around 2070 with two-thirds of the world population living in cities. Rapid urbanisation is a global phenomenon. Densification in our cities is inevitable. Today, most cities deal with density by expandable infrastructure and more tall buildings with much similarities. Is this the best way to shape our place? Many big cities are losing their identities and local culture. With today’s advanced technology and environmental awareness, our responses to urban built environment are limitless.

In 1990, there were just 10 megacities, defined as place with 10 million inhabitants or more. Now there are 33 megacities, with many of them in Asia - Tokyo, New Delhi, Shanghai… Melbourne is expected to be Australia’s first megacity in the next few decades. How can we shape our most liveable city with the fastest urban densification in Australia’s history?

Studio Outcomes

Inten_CITY is a research-based hypothetical studio, unbounded by space and time. Through quantitative research and morphological mapping, students will be challenged to reimagine and intensify cities by creative solutions without compromising on our urban quality of life.

Studio Leader

Benjamin Lau is a designer and urbanist, design partner of Farrells for over twenty years in London, Hong Kong and Australia. Specialising in mixed-use urban design, transport-integrated complexes and super tall buildings, he has leaded many award winning masterplans and architectural projects in Asia Pacific region.

Benjamin is passionate in art and architecture, and tireless advocate of sustainable urban environment.

Readings & References

• Delirious New York: A Retroactive Manifesto for Manhattan by Rem Koolhaas
• FARMAX by MVRDV, Winy Maas, Jacob van Rijs, Richard Kdek
• KM3-Excursions on capacities by MVRDV
• SML SL by Rem Koolhaas Bruce Mau
• The City as a Tangled Bank by Terry Farrell

Schedule Mondays and Thursdays 12:00-15:00

Contact Handbook