Deconstructing the Superblock

Abstract

This project addresses the many inhuman-scale superblocks that have resulted from the rapid urbanization of China over the past decades. These superblocks suffer from problems such as poor accessibility and a monotonous urban landscape. This project begins with a review of the development of superblocks in the West and in China, where superblocks have inherited the ancient Chinese urban paradigm while also being influenced by modernist urban planning. At the same time, China's land finance policy has created a reliance on superblocks as an urban development model for both government and developers. The need for urban regeneration and urban densification is both a challenge and an opportunity for the transformation of superblocks. Using Shenzhen as an example, two superblocks are selected for analysis and design based on the extent of the need for urban regeneration. By analyzing the network and functional distribution of these two superblocks, the problems of superblocks can be attributed to the abuse of closed neighborhoods and the mismatch between networks and activities. In addition, the current urban regeneration model in Shenzhen does not effectively improve the problems of superblocks. Thus, the project proposes that the regeneration units of superblocks should be integrated at the district scale and the degree of integration of the superblock network should be improved. At the same time, existing closed settlements should be replaced by more open block types to produce smaller blocks and more frequent streets and to match the functions corresponding to the road hierarchy. In addition, supporting block management policies need to be developed. Ultimately these strategies will be shown as an urban design scheme that will enable the transformation of superblocks to more livable blocks.