Historic Cities and Urban Settlements Initiative

Multi-Project Initiative

Developing new approaches to conserving historic cities worldwide at a time of rapid urban growth and change

People and cars crowd under the mostly white buildings in Quito, Ecuador's historic center

Photo: Guillermo Aldana

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Goal

An essential part of the world’s cultural heritage, historic cities are at risk from rapid urbanization and globalization. This initiative aims to understand the key problems facing the preservation of urban environments worldwide and to develop shared solutions that apply across local differences. Current work focuses on research to identify shared needs and gaps in knowledge, as well as support for practitioners in the form of publications and trainings in underserved regions.

More Information

See full project description, including publications and resources.

Projects in This Initiative

  1. Contemporary Architecture in the Historic Environment

    A sunset view of a large cathedral, several skyscrapers, and the River Thames in London

    Creating methodologies and tools to guide the design of new buildings in historic environments and assess their impacts

  2. Urban Conservation Planning in Southeast Asia

    A row of waterfront wooden homes sit in front of a high-rise apartment building

    Courses for urban planners and architects on internationally recognized urban conservation planning methodologies