Integrated design for urban and public space regeneration in the territories of Southern Italy

Abstract

This paper presents some thoughts on integrated design as an effective operational approach for intervening in urban and public space regeneration processes in Southern Italy. The contribution that cities and urban systems make in supporting qualified and balanced development dynamics is highlighted by European guidelines and policies promoted in Italy since the late 1990s, when the European Union, through the Urban Program, initiated the first experiments with integrated design. With the regionalisation of the European Cohesion Policy in 2000, integrated projects became the preferred approach in Southern Italy for enhancing positive urban regeneration.
Finally, the paper proposes some recent experiences in the territories of Southern Italy and the in-depth study of case studies of Casoria, Paestum and Salerno Sud. In conclusion, it highlights how the combination of a contemporary interpretation of Landscape and the founding principles of Integrated Design can define an effective strategy for urban and public space regeneration.

Keywords: integrated design, public space, Southern Italy