The Creative Economy: Shaping the Future Design of Our Cities

We are at an extremely exciting time in human history. Technology has changed the way we live, learn, and connect with others. Furthermore, technology continues to transform our economy. Today a creative economy has emerged, where innovative ideas and technologies are replacing the raw materials that we once relied upon. This economy, fueled by creative networking and the sharing of ideas, will greatly influence the future design of our cities.

These new technologies have freed us from the constraints of traditional physical form. No longer is working confined to a skyscraper or factory. Technology has allowed us to communicate and work in new ways, impacting where we do our work. People are beginning to telecommute from home, coffee shops, and cowering environments instead of large office buildings. No longer do our cities need to be segregated by zoning uses, for the shape of our businesses are changing.

Already, we are seeing the emergence of these types of places. Coworking spaces are beginning to inhabit old factory buildings, creating a new use for an old space. Mixed-use developments are emerging around transit hubs, where people are able to live, work, and play. These types of spaces combined with the new creative economy are beginning to reshape how we live and interact with the environment around us. The future planning of our cities will greatly reflect this exciting, new economy, and I am excited to see what shape it will take!