Category: On Architecture 2023

CLIP and the City: Addressing the Artificial Encoding of Cities in Multimodal Foundation Deep Learning Models
Dario Negueruela del Castillo, Iacopo Neri

https://doi.org/10.60152/eun81fru

Abstract: In this project, we propose and explore a computational pipeline to examine urban cultural landscapes through the lens of artificial intelligence, and for questioning modes of embedding culture in machine learning models. By employing machine learning models that extract features and textual properties from images, we aim to uncover the connections between a city’s history, architecture, and urban development. The city of Rome serves as a significant case study for this research.
To achieve this objective, we feed 360° panoramic images into large vision-language models (e.g. OpenCLIP), to question how mainstream culture is expressed in these models. In this machine-triggered urban experiment, we investigate overlaps between history and machinic interpretation and whether relevant temporal correlations can be captured through generic street images only. Finally, by spatially analysing the captured data, we identify clusters and discontinuities in the urban layout aiming at visually depicting the interplay of forces behind its development.
As in a forensic exercise, the paper seeks to uncover the complex social and historical dynamics of urban environments, exploiting only contemporary images of their settings and a generic embedding of culture. It explores potential cultural biases embedded in machine learning models by comparing Rome – culturally relevant for the western world – with other cities around the world; leveraging innovative computational pipelines and globally covering datasets to provide a novel research line for urban studies.

Keywords: AI, Urban Studies, Multimodality, Computational Mapping, CLIP

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Negueruela del Castillo, D. and Neri, I. (2023) ‘CLIP and the City: Addressing the Artificial Encoding of Cities in Multimodal Foundation Deep Learning Models’, in R.  Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Challenges in Design, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 100–109. 

See publication On Architecture (2023) Conference Proceedings

METAVERSE – a powerful new instrument for urban planning or yet another unfulfilled tech-promise?
Marina Nenković-Riznić

https://doi.org/10.60152/zkhvd3og

Abstract: Pandemic and post-pandemic conditions left significant impacts not only on human life, but also in all of the aspects of human behavior, which consequently led to serious change in human communication. Often overlapping and interference of “real life“, and virtual, contactless communication influenced accelerated adaptation of people to rapid and immediate change of perspectives. This affected regular interaction among people, but also had consequences in different performance of duties such as scientific development in different fields, or any other development-oriented activities. From that new adaptation, METAVERSE was born, as immersive 3D environment in which people synchronously interact with others, and with representations of objects from the physical world. METAVERSE enables interactions with digital environments and physical objects located in different places and enables individuals to interact with other people in remote locations. Within the realm of urban planning, the emergence of the METAVERSE has sparked both excitement and skepticism. Proponents argue that it possesses the transformative power to revolutionize the way cities are designed, managed, and experienced, while skeptics remain cautious, questioning its viability and potential to deliver tangible benefits. This paper aims to critically examine the METAVERSE as a potent instrument for urban planning or yet another instance of unfulfilled technological promises. By analyzing the concept of the METAVERSE and its fundamental principles, this study seeks to uncover its potential applications in urban planning, especially in the field of participation. It explores the integration of virtual and augmented realities, immersive technologies, and advanced data analytics to create interactive and participatory urban design experiences. Ethical concerns regarding privacy, accessibility, and digital equity are addressed, acknowledging the potential for exacerbating existing social disparities. Additionally, technical constraints, economic feasibility, and the need for robust infrastructure are examined to assess the practicality of widespread METAVERSE adoption in urban planning practices. Through a comprehensive analysis, this paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of whether the METAVERSE represents a truly powerful and transformative tool or merely another fleeting technological mirage in the landscape of urban development.

Keywords: METAVERSE, urban planning, public participation, 3D environment

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Nenković-Riznić, M. (2023) ‘METAVERSE – a powerful new instrument for urban planning or yet another unfulfilled tech-promise?’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Challenges in Design, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 92–99. 

See publication On Architecture (2023) Conference Proceedings

Architecture Beyond Borders. Exploring the Relationship between Architectural Theory and Practice in Transnational Endeavors within the Belt and Road Initiative
Francesco Carota

https://doi.org/10.60152/pb1mytc7

Abstract: The paper delves into the intricate relationship between architectural critique and design practice within the realm of transnational architecture endeavors, specifically focusing on the global infrastructure development facilitated by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). As a monumental project spanning numerous countries and continents, the BRI has sparked a wave of architectural interventions that transcend national boundaries. These endeavors offer a unique opportunity to explore how the circulation of design ideas and practices across nations manifests in tangible architectural artefacts, which have thus far remained on the periphery of mainstream architectural discourse. By drawing upon diverse case studies from different parts of the world, where various stakeholders such as governments, investors, communities, and architectural professionals are involved, this research examines the tensions that arise between global and local architectural practices, the negotiation of cultural identities and the adaptation of design standards to accommodate diverse geographical and sociocultural contexts. Through this investigation, the contribution critically evaluates and challenges the oversimplification of global architecture through taxonomic scientific frameworks, rejecting the notion that urban architecture is a static and universally applicable knowledge object that can be studied using a singular framework. Instead, it sheds light on the complex dynamics at play in the creation of built environments within a multi-dimensional globalized context. The final aim is to promote the development of new concepts and theoretical perspectives that foster a more cosmopolitan and inclusive understanding of architecture and urbanism.

Keywords: Belt and Road Initiative, Transnational Architecture, Practice, Theory, Globalization, Urbanization

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Carota, F. (2023) ‘Architecture Beyond Borders. Exploring the Relationship between Architectural Theory and Practice in Transnational Endeavors within the Belt and Road Initiative’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Challenges in Design, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 16–23. 

See publication On Architecture (2023) Conference Proceedings

HERSUS Story: Changing Perceptions on Sustainable Built Heritage through Education
Vladan Djokić

https://doi.org/10.60152/wk3iaxgk

Abstract: The keynote will share the story of Erasmus+ Strategic Partnership project HERSUS implemented from 2020-2023 in Serbia, Italy, Cyprus, Greece, and Spain. The HERSUS project, as its full title indicates, aims to enhance heritage awareness and sustainability of the built environment in urban and architectural design higher education. HERSUS is situated in a changing and challenging context of architectural discourse and grounded on co-creative research platform for up-skilling of architectural students through learning/training/teaching activities and spectrum of didactic tools. In the context of multiple influences affecting the development and transformation of cities – such as climate change, green challenges, and social transformation – the problematization of heritage issues in the setting of the city and landscape becomes a priority topic. Within this multilayered research scope, to have far-reaching implications in the practical sense, its integration into existing study programs as well as new study programs is of immense importance. As a result, a new profile of architects/urban designers is needed in the wider architectural field, and a new professional profile, with specific technical, technological, socio-humanistic, and artistic skills is needed to respond to these challenges.

Keywords: Architectural Education; Heritage; Sustainability; Professional Skills and Competences

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Djokić, V. (2023) ‘HERSUS Story: Changing Perceptions on Sustainable Built Heritage through Education’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Challenges in Design, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 10–15. 

See publication On Architecture (2023) Conference Proceedings