IN-PERSON Lisbon Livable Cities. Section B

Abstract

Baukultur, a German concept emphasizing quality, sustainability, and cultural integration in urban design, offers a promising solution to the challenges of overtourism in Lisbon in 2024 and onwards. With its rapid tourism growth, Lisbon has faced significant pressures on housing, local businesses, and community life, exacerbating issues like gentrification and the erosion of urban identity. Baukultur presents a method that balances tourism development with the preservation of local cultures, ensuring that the city’s architectural heritage and communities remain intact amidst global pressures. The framework of Baukultur directly addresses concerns of community well-being and social equity by prioritizing inclusive design that engages local populations in the urban planning process. By integrating local identity, Baukultur helps battle gentrification, which often displaces long-term residents, fostering a more resilient urban environment. The emphasis on sustainable design practices ensures that infrastructure development supports both environmental sustainability and the city´s resilience in response to growing tourism. Baukultur also plays a key role in heritage conservation, offering a means to protect Lisbon’s historical neighborhoods from over-commercialization, while creating spaces that benefit both locals and tourists. By blending traditional materials with modern, eco-friendly solutions, Baukultur promotes sustainable urban regeneration that respects the past while accommodating future growth. This approach fosters a livable, culturally vibrant city that can withstand the pressures of over-tourism, creating a resilient urban landscape where communities thrive. Ultimately, Baukultur provides a framework that aligns with the values of sustainable cities and community resilience, making it an essential model for Lisbon and other cities grappling with the challenges of mass tourism.