Breaking through the classical determinants in the field of hyper urban planning

Abstract

Purpose This paper could be considered as the first step of grounding the ambitions and speculations about hyper urban planning. In other words, it is just a brief approach for the critical discussion of hyper urban planning field, without too many details or long explanations, so further studying, arguing and additional future research should be done. Design/methodology/approach The scientific methodology is based on descriptive and analytical methods, in addition to case study method of data collection. Therefore, the paper has reviewed 16 case studies, which could arguably be lumped under the title of “hyper urban planning.” Findings The study focuses on proposing a new way to view urban planning, that is the hyper urban planning, which could be considered as a sort of specialized urban branch of advanced level, characterized by special criteria, which stimulates innovative and creative proposals for the future smart cities. Research limitations/implications Hyper urban planning field generally aims to contribute to liberating and releasing the full creative imagination of the urban planners’ minds, outside the box and away from the exaggerated strict constraints. Practical implications The study has been based on theoretical aspects in addition to empirical experiments. The practical aspects reflect the potential and promising features of hyper urban planning, especially with regard to using creativity, sustainability and innovative technology solutions. Social implications The paper’s analyses show that many hyper urban proposals have a high potential sustainability, environmentally, socially and economically. Originality/value As urban problems and built environment challenges have become more complex, the proposed vertical eco-cities under the umbrella of hyper urban planning field may arguably be promising and more sustainable urban solutions for the previously mentioned challenges.