Since the mid-2000s, geodesign has become recognized as a synthesis discipline providing integrative, technology-based based solutions to scalable, place-based problems. As an emerging field, geodesign theory and practice may be informed and strengthened by studying contrasts between contemporary perspectives and historical urban and landscape design processes. In this paper we disaggregate contemporary geodesign into three trajectories found in the literature: 1) tightly coupled design and impact simulations, 2) a framework for landscape planning, and 3) an organic process. Augmenting these trajectories with two taxonomies of geodesign elements, we look for evidence of geodesign in a longitudinal descriptive case study. The case sought to ascertain the extent to which historical planning and design align with the trajectories and frameworks of contemporary geodesign. Analysis reveals a story of design and planning unfolding over a long period of time at multiple geographic scales interwoven with persistent conflict. The case revealed evidence of geodesign approaches and elements in historical planning and design. The events studied also led to high quality outcomes that are diffusing regionally. Results of this investigation yield implications for improved geodesign practice and theory including broadening the discourse around geodesign to include time and conflict and expanding geodesign’s theoretical frameworks.

To cite this study:

Lieske, S.N., Hamerlinck, J.D., 2023. Geodesign in historical process: case study insights for improving theory and practice. International Planning Studies 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/13563475.2023.2205031