The concept of genius loci in urban design refers to the spirit of place, which is the sense of continuity and authenticity of a particular location[1]. This concept is fundamentally important to urban planners and designers, as it helps create spaces that match the culture, environment, traditions, society, and economics of a place[2].
Some key aspects of the genius loci concept in urban design include:
- Local conditions: Place is determined through the dominance of local conditions, which influence architecture and urban development[3].
- Phenomenology of cities: Genius loci can be used to describe cities that hold sentimental values to the user personally, reflecting the unique characteristics and experiences of a place[4].
- Sense of place: Genius loci in architecture is portrayed as the way 'sense of place' occurs through the concept of dwelling, creating spaces that resonate with the people who inhabit them[5].
- Influence on design: Urban designers and planners can use the concept of genius loci to create spaces that respect and enhance the existing character of a place, ensuring that new developments are harmonious with their surroundings[1].
- Case studies: Investigating the phenomenon of place and genius loci in specific cities, such as Dublin, Ireland, can provide valuable insights into how the concept can be applied in urban design[6].
In summary, the genius loci concept in urban design emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting the unique characteristics of a place, ensuring that new developments are sensitive to the existing environment, culture, and traditions. This approach helps create spaces that are authentic, meaningful, and resonate with the people who live and work in them.
Citations: [1] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/293772216_Genius_loci_A_poetic_approach_to_urban_design [2] https://simplicable.com/design/genius-loci [3] https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gerhard_Curdes2/publication/285597681_DESIGN_FOR_PLACE_THE_CONCEPT_OF_THE_GENIUS_LOCI_IN_TOWN-PLANNING_AND_IN_PLANNING_FOR_TOURISM/links/5661b8d508ae192bbf8aea2f/DESIGN-FOR-PLACE-THE-CONCEPT-OF-THE-GENIUS-LOCI-IN-TOWN-PLANNING-AND-IN-PLANNING-FOR-TOURISM.pdf [4] https://www.perekabandar.org.my/post/the-curious-case-of-genius-loci-phenomenology-of-cities [5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/am/pii/S1296207419301748 [6] https://scholarship.rice.edu/bitstream/handle/1911/104753/RICE2389.pdf?isAllowed=y&sequence=1
By Perplexity at https://www.perplexity.ai/search/9856441b-7c72-4dd8-b841-97f0f385089c