Twentieth International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

Many researchers have recalled the need for transformative changes in built environments and urban spaces for sustainable development. However, sustainability transformations are also possible generators of wicked problems. Nonetheless, design as a primary source of solving wicked problems can play a crucial role in addressing sustainability transformation in built environments. To identify the most effective design measures, we rely on the framing practice proposed by Dorst (2011) for the act of problem-solving. Thus, we aim to frame the design of the built environment as a ‘system’ that needs transformative changes. That is, we say, if we look at the design of built environments as a system and adopt the working principle associated with transforming a system towards sustainability, then we might be able to define some design measures for transformative changes in built environments. In this regard, Donella Meadows offers a creative framework that addresses the most effective leverage or intervention points for transforming a system. Thus, in this paper, we frame built environment design as a system based on Dorst’s idea. Then we identify the most effective design approaches for bringing transformative changes in built environments by sorting and categorizing the literature on the topic based on analyzing Donella Meadows’s twelve intervention points framework. This process will help recognize the twelve most effective leverage points or design approaches for sustainability transformation in built environments. Moreover, it helps gather dispersed knowledge on sustainable built environment design and urban transformation by placing it under a common umbrella.