The City of Pujiang by Gregotti Associates: Vittorio Gregotti. Urban Design Between China and Italy. The Pujiang and Bicocca Cases

Vittorio Gregotti's architectural philosophy emphasizes the interplay between architecture and its territorial context, asserting that the built environment must engage with cultural identities and social dynamics. His approach, presented in "The Territory of Architecture" (1966), views territory as a complex text that informs design. The Pujiang New Town project in China serves as a case study, illustrating Gregotti's principles in action. Developed as part of the "One City, Nine Towns" initiative, this Italian-themed city aims to balance local traditions with modern planning, avoiding superficial imitations of European styles.

Gregotti highlights the critical need for thoughtful urban design in China, addressing the risks of rapid urbanization that can erase cultural values. The design for Pujiang focuses on enhancing urban structure and quality of life, incorporating elements like small squares, pedestrian paths, and waterways that reflect traditional aspects of Chinese cities. By fostering a "morphology of living," the project aims to create a cohesive urban identity while accommodating a population of 80-100 thousand. The layout connects to the Huangpu River, harmonizing with natural elements and emphasizing a respectful dialogue between contemporary and historical influences in urban development.