#urban planning India

[nnctales]

The Ambitious Central Vista Project: Transforming India's Administrative Heart

The Central Vista Project is an ongoing initiative by the Government of India to revamp the central administrative area of New Delhi, originally designed by architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker during British colonial rule. This ambitious project aims to transform the heart of the nation’s capital, creating a modern and efficient workspace while preserving the historic character of the…

[fatehbaz]

On May 28, 1914, the Institut für Schiffs-und Tropenkrankheiten (Institute for Maritime and Tropical Diseases, ISTK) in Hamburg began operations in a complex of new brick buildings on the bank of the Elb. The buildings were designed by Fritz Schumacher, who had become the Head of Hamburg’s building department (Leiter des Hochbauamtes) in 1909 after a “flood of architectural projects” accumulated following the industrialization of the harbor in the 1880s and the “new housing and working conditions” that followed. The ISTK was one of these projects, connected to the port by its [...] mission: to research and heal tropical illnesses; [...] to support the Hamburg Port [...]; and to support endeavors of the German Empire overseas.

First established in 1900 by Bernhard Nocht, chief of the Port Medical Service, the ISTK originally operated out of an existing building, but by 1909, when the Hamburg Colonial Institute became its parent organization (and Schumacher was hired by the Hamburg Senate), the operations of the ISTK had outgrown [...]. [I]ts commission by the city was an opportunity for Schumacher to show how he could contribute to guiding the city’s economic and architectural growth in tandem, and for Nocht, an opportunity to establish an unprecedented spatial paradigm for the field of Tropical Medicine that anchored the new frontier of science in the German Empire. [...]

[There was a] shared drive to contribute to the [...] wealth of Hamburg within the context of its expanding global network [...]. [E]ach discipline [...] architecture and medicine were participating in a shared [...] discursive operation. [...]

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The brick used on the ISTK façades was key to Schumacher’s larger Städtebau plan for Hamburg, which envisioned the city as a vehicle for a “harmonious” synthesis between aesthetics and economy. [...] For Schumacher, brick [was significantly preferable] [...]. Used by [...] Hamburg architects [over the past few decades], who acquired their penchant for neo-gothic brickwork at the Hanover school, brick had both a historical presence and aesthetic pedigree in Hamburg [...]. [T]his material had already been used in Die Speicherstadt, a warehouse district in Hamburg where unequal social conditions had only grown more exacerbated [...]. Die Speicherstadt was constructed in three phases [beginning] in 1883 [...]. By serving the port, the warehouses facilitated the expansion and security of Hamburg’s wealth. [...] Yet the collective profits accrued to the city by these buildings [...] did not increase economic prosperity and social equity for all. [...] [A] residential area for harbor workers was demolished to make way for the warehouses. After the contract for the port expansion was negotiated in 1881, over 20,000 people were pushed out of their homes and into adjacent areas of the city, which soon became overcrowded [...]. In turn, these [...] areas of the city [...] were the worst hit by the Hamburg cholera epidemic of 1892, the most devastating in Europe that year. The 1892 cholera epidemic [...] articulated the growing inability of the Hamburg Senate, comprising the city’s elite, to manage class relationships [...] [in such] a city that was explicitly run by and for the merchant class [...].

In Hamburg, the response to such an ugly disease of the masses was the enforcement of quarantine methods that pushed the working class into the suburbs, isolated immigrants on an island, and separated the sick according to racial identity.

In partnership with the German Empire, Hamburg established new hygiene institutions in the city, including the Port Medical Service (a progenitor of the ISTK). [...] [T]he discourse of [creating the school for tropical medicine] centered around city building and nation building, brick by brick, mark by mark.

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Just as the exterior condition of the building was, for Schumacher, part of a much larger plan for the city, the program of the building and its interior were part of the German Empire and Tropical Medicine’s much larger interest in controlling the health and wealth of its nation and colonies. [...]

Yet the establishment of the ISTK marked a critical shift in medical thinking [...]. And while the ISTK was not the only institution in Europe to form around the conception and perceived threat of tropical diseases, it was the first to build a facility specifically to support their “exploration and combat” in lockstep, as Nocht described it.

The field of Tropical Medicine had been established in Germany by the very same journal Nocht published his overview of the ISTK. The Archiv für Schiffs- und Tropen-Hygiene unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der Pathologie und Therapie was first published in 1897, the same year that the German Empire claimed Kiaochow (northeast China) and about two years after it claimed Southwest Africa (Namibia), Cameroon, Togo, East Africa (Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda), New Guinea (today the northern part of Papua New Guinea), and the Marshall Islands; two years later, it would also claim the Caroline Islands, Palau, Mariana Islands (today Micronesia), and Samoa (today Western Samoa).

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The inaugural journal [...] marked a paradigm shift [...]. In his opening letter, the editor stated that the aim of Tropical Medicine is to “provide the white race with a home in the tropics.” [...]

As part of the institute’s agenda to support the expansion of the Empire through teaching and development [...], members of the ISTK contributed to the Deutsches Kolonial Lexikon, a three-volume series completed in 1914 (in the same year as the new ISTK buildings) and published in 1920. The three volumes contained maps of the colonies coded to show the areas that were considered “healthy” for Europeans, along with recommended building guidelines for hospitals in the tropics. [...] "Natives" were given separate facilities [...]. The hospital at the ISTK was similarly divided according to identity. An essentializing belief in “intrinsic factors” determined by skin color, constitutive to Tropical Medicine, materialized in the building’s circulation. Potential patients were assessed in the main building to determine their next destination in the hospital. A room labeled “Farbige” (colored) - visible in both Nocht and Schumacher’s publications - shows that the hospital segregated people of color from whites. [...]

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Despite belonging to two different disciplines [medicine and architecture], both Nocht and Schumacher’s publications articulate an understanding of health [...] that is linked to concepts of identity separating white upper-class German Europeans from others. [In] Hamburg [...] recent growth of the shipping industry and overt engagement of the German Empire in colonialism brought even more distant global connections to its port. For Schumacher, Hamburg’s presence in a global network meant it needed to strengthen its local identity and economy [by purposefully seeking to showcase "traditional" northern German neo-gothic brickwork while elevating local brick industry] lest it grow too far from its roots. In the case of Tropical Medicine at the ISTK, the “tropics” seemed to act as a foil for the European identity - a constructed category through which the European identity could redescribe itself by exclusion [...].

What it meant to be sick or healthy was taken up by both medicine and architecture - [...] neither in a vacuum.

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All text above by: Carrie Bly. "Mediums of Medicine: The Institute for Maritime and Tropical Diseases in Hamburg". Sick Architecture series published by e-flux Architecture. November 2020. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me. Text within brackets added by me for clarity. Presented here for commentary, teaching, criticism purposes.]

[bumblebeeappletree]

After a flash flood that sent dead rats floating through the streets of Copenhagen, the city began reimagining itself. Away from concrete and asphalt and towards softer, “spongier” settlements that work with the natural flow of the water cycle. With cloudbursts increasing in intensity because of climate change, many cities from Beijing to Chennai are trying this too - and Copenhagen offers some good lessons.

#planeta #flooding #urbanplanning

Credits:

Reporter: Aditi Rajagopal

Camera: Omkar Phatak

Video Editor: Aditi Rajagopal

Animation: William Bryan

Supervising Editor: Michael Trobridge

Factcheck: Kirsten Funk

Thumbnail: Em Chabridon

Interviewees:

Jan Rasmussen, director, Cloudburst Management Plan

Jes Clouson-Kaas, project manager, HOFOR

Read More

All about the cloudburst management plan: https://climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu/e...

Lessons from Copenhagen: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10....

Chapters:

00:01 Intro

00:52 Hidden in plain sight

03:01 The heart of future Copenhagen

05:37 Machine cities to sponge cities

07:24 Flooding children's parks

08:49 The numbers

09:40 Mitigation before adaptation

[anik211]

🚦 Delhi's Congestion Tax: A Step Towards Sustainable Urban Mobility 🌱 and Its Impact on Other States

Delhi is contemplating the introduction of a congestion tax aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and reducing pollution during peak hours. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to manage the increasing vehicular traffic in the city, particularly at key entry points. As one of the most congested cities in the world, Delhi’s approach could set a precedent for other urban centers in…

[best-architects-in-india]

Creating Healing Spaces: The Importance of Hospital Design and IMK Architects’ Role in Revolutionizing Healthcare Facilities

The design of healthcare facilities plays a critical role in patient recovery and well-being. IMK Architects has been a key player in revolutionizing hospital design in India, focusing on creating healing environments that prioritize patient comfort and operational efficiency.

The Significance of Thoughtful Design

In healthcare architecture, the importance of thoughtful design cannot be overstated. Research has shown that well-designed spaces can significantly enhance patient outcomes, reduce stress, and improve staff efficiency. IMK Architects recognizes this and approaches hospital design with a focus on creating environments that promote healing.

IMK Architects’ Contributions

One of the firm’s standout projects is the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital, which showcases their commitment to patient-centric design. The hospital integrates natural light, greenery, and open spaces to create a calming environment. By incorporating elements of nature, IMK Architects helps to reduce anxiety and foster a sense of tranquility among patients.

Moreover, IMK’s designs prioritize operational efficiency. They create layouts that enhance the workflow for medical staff, ensuring that the movement of patients and resources is seamless. This attention to both patient experience and staff needs exemplifies the firm’s holistic approach to healthcare design.

Revolutionizing Healthcare Spaces

IMK Architects’ influence extends beyond individual projects. Their advocacy for sustainable healthcare design has inspired other firms to prioritize eco-friendly practices in their projects. By utilizing energy-efficient systems, water conservation methods, and sustainable materials, IMK Architects is setting a new standard for healthcare facilities in India.

Conclusion

IMK Architects is at the forefront of revolutionizing hospital design in India. Their commitment to creating healing spaces that prioritize patient comfort and operational efficiency reflects a deep understanding of the healthcare environment. As the firm continues to innovate, they play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare architecture, ultimately enhancing the quality of care for patients across the country.

[prototechsolutionsblog]

The Role of BIM Outsourcing in Sustainable Building Design

In an era where environmental consciousness and sustainability are paramount, the construction and architecture industries are increasingly turning to Building Information Modeling (BIM) to streamline projects and enhance sustainability. BIM, a digital representation of a building's physical and functional characteristics, has revolutionized how structures are designed, built, and managed. As the demand for sustainable building design grows, the role of BIM outsourcing has become more critical than ever. This blog post explores how BIM outsourcing contributes to sustainable building design and why it is an indispensable tool for the modern construction industry.

The Intersection of BIM and Sustainability

BIM facilitates the creation of accurate and detailed digital models that provide a holistic view of a building's life cycle, from design and construction to operation and maintenance. This comprehensive perspective enables architects, engineers, and construction professionals to make informed decisions that enhance sustainability. Key sustainability benefits of BIM include:

Energy Efficiency: BIM allows for precise energy modeling and simulation, enabling the design of energy-efficient buildings. It helps identify potential areas for energy savings, optimize HVAC systems, and select sustainable materials.

Material Optimization: By providing accurate quantity take-offs and detailed material specifications, BIM minimizes waste and ensures the efficient use of resources. This is crucial in reducing the carbon footprint of construction projects.

Improved Collaboration: BIM's collaborative platform fosters communication and coordination among project stakeholders, reducing errors and rework. This efficiency not only saves time and costs but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with construction activities.

The Advantages of BIM Outsourcing

BIM outsourcing involves delegating BIM-related tasks to specialized firms or professionals who possess the expertise and technology required to execute complex BIM processes. This approach offers several advantages, particularly in the context of sustainable building design:

Access to Specialized Expertise: Outsourcing firms often have a team of skilled BIM professionals who are well-versed in the latest technologies and sustainable design practices. They bring specialized knowledge and experience, ensuring high-quality BIM deliverables that align with sustainability goals.

Cost-Effectiveness: Developing an in-house BIM team can be expensive, requiring investment in software, training, and personnel. Outsourcing provides a cost-effective solution, allowing companies to access top-notch BIM services without the overhead costs.

Scalability and Flexibility: BIM outsourcing offers the flexibility to scale services according to project requirements. Whether a project demands extensive BIM modeling or specific sustainable design analysis, outsourcing firms can tailor their services to meet the needs of the project.

Focus on Core Competencies: By outsourcing BIM tasks, architecture and construction firms can focus on their core competencies, such as design innovation and project management. This focus enhances overall project quality and sustainability outcomes.

How BIM Outsourcing Enhances Sustainable Building Design

BIM outsourcing plays a crucial role in achieving sustainable building design by providing the expertise and technology necessary to implement sustainable practices effectively. Here are some specific ways in which BIM outsourcing contributes to sustainability:

1. Energy Performance Analysis

One of the primary goals of sustainable building design is to reduce energy consumption. BIM outsourcing firms utilize advanced energy modeling software to simulate a building's energy performance. These simulations consider various factors, such as building orientation, insulation, glazing, and HVAC systems, to optimize energy efficiency. By outsourcing this task, project teams gain access to cutting-edge tools and methodologies that may not be available in-house.

2. Lifecycle Assessment

BIM outsourcing enables comprehensive lifecycle assessments (LCA) of building materials and systems. LCA evaluates the environmental impact of materials throughout their lifecycle, from extraction and production to disposal. By analyzing these impacts, BIM professionals can recommend sustainable alternatives and strategies to minimize environmental footprints. This assessment is crucial for making informed decisions about material selection and construction methods.

3. Green Building Certification

Achieving green building certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), is a significant milestone in sustainable building design. BIM outsourcing firms often specialize in preparing the documentation and analysis required for these certifications. They ensure that all aspects of the design meet the stringent criteria set by certification bodies, enhancing the building's sustainability credentials.

4. Waste Reduction and Recycling

BIM's ability to provide accurate material quantities and specifications aids in reducing construction waste. BIM outsourcing firms excel in creating precise models that minimize over-ordering and waste. Additionally, they can integrate sustainable practices, such as recycling and reusing materials, into the construction process. This not only reduces waste but also lowers project costs and environmental impact.

5. Sustainable Urban Planning

Beyond individual buildings, BIM outsourcing can contribute to sustainable urban planning. By creating detailed models of entire neighborhoods or districts, BIM professionals can analyze the environmental impact of large-scale developments. This analysis includes factors such as transportation networks, green spaces, and water management systems. The insights gained from these models guide the design of sustainable urban environments that promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

Challenges and Considerations in BIM Outsourcing

While BIM outsourcing offers numerous benefits, it is essential to consider potential challenges and ensure effective collaboration between in-house teams and outsourcing partners. Key considerations include:

Communication and Coordination: Effective communication is critical to ensure that the outsourcing firm understands the project's sustainability goals and requirements. Regular updates and collaboration are necessary to align all stakeholders.

Data Security: As with any outsourcing arrangement, data security is a concern. It is vital to establish robust data protection protocols and ensure that sensitive project information is handled securely.

Quality Control: Maintaining quality standards is crucial in BIM outsourcing. It is essential to select a reputable outsourcing firm with a proven track record of delivering high-quality BIM services.

Conclusion

BIM outsourcing is a valuable strategy for achieving sustainable building design. It offers access to specialized expertise, cost-effective solutions, and advanced technologies that enhance the sustainability of construction projects. By leveraging the capabilities of BIM outsourcing firms, architects and construction professionals can optimize energy performance, reduce waste, and achieve green building certifications. As the construction industry continues to prioritize sustainability, the role of BIM outsourcing in delivering environmentally responsible designs will only grow in importance. By embracing this approach, companies can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

[evokedholavira]

Explore Dholavira - A 5000-year-old Harappan Gem in Gujarat

Explore the ancient Harappan city of Dholavira with Evoke Dholavira. Discover its sophisticated urban planning, artifacts, and the mysteries of a 5000-year-old civilization. Book your stay for a unique blend of history and luxury in the heart of Gujarat. Visit evokedholavira.com for more information and reservations.

[swarrnimuniversitygandhinagar]

The Role of Fashion, Architecture, and Urban Planning in Shaping Indian Cities

Urban development in India is a multifaceted process, deeply influenced by the convergence of various disciplines, including fashion, architecture, and urban planning. These fields, though distinct, play a collaborative role in shaping the cities of India, making them vibrant, sustainable, and culturally rich. This blog explores how these disciplines contribute to urban development and highlights the role of Swarrnim University in Gujarat as a key player in education and research in these areas.

Fashion: Weaving Identity and Culture into Urban Fabric

Fashion is not just about clothing; it reflects cultural identity and societal trends. In Indian cities, fashion acts as a tool for expressing individuality and collective values. Street fashion, for example, showcases India's diverse cultural heritage, blending traditional motifs with contemporary designs. This interplay of styles enriches the urban aesthetic and supports local economies by promoting artisan crafts and industries.

Moreover, fashion events such as fashion weeks and design exhibitions have become significant urban attractions, drawing both locals and tourists. These events offer a platform for designers to showcase their work, foster innovation, and set trends that reflect the city’s culture and spirit.

Architecture: Shaping the Physical and Emotional Landscape

Architecture, the art and science of designing buildings and structures, profoundly impacts the character and functionality of urban spaces. In India, architecture is a testament to the country’s rich history and rapid modernization. Traditional architectural elements are integrated into modern designs, creating innovative spaces deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

Architects play a crucial role in urban development by designing buildings that are sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, and responsive to the community's needs. This is why there is a rise in the demand for good architecture colleges in Gujarat. Through thoughtful design, they can enhance the quality of life, promote social interaction, and contribute to the economic vitality of cities. The architecture of public spaces, such as parks, museums, and cultural centers, further enriches the urban experience, making cities more livable and inviting.

Urban Planning: The Blueprint for Sustainable Growth

Urban planning is essential for the organized development and management of cities. It involves creating comprehensive plans that address housing, transportation, economic activities, and environmental concerns. In India, urban planners face the challenge of accommodating rapid urbanization while preserving the environment and cultural heritage. This is why the curriculum for many Master's in urban planning in India focuses on imparting knowledge on these topics.

Effective urban planning promotes sustainable development, ensuring that cities can support their inhabitants without depleting natural resources or harming the environment. It also aims to create inclusive urban environments that cater to the population's diverse needs, including affordable housing, accessible public transportation, and public spaces that encourage community engagement.

Swarrnim University: Fostering Innovation in Urban Development

Swarrnim University in Gujarat stands at the forefront of education and research in fashion, architecture, and urban planning. As one of the leading architecture colleges in Gujarat, it offers comprehensive programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the complex challenges of urban development.

The university’s curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to explore the intersections between fashion, architecture, and urban planning. Students gain practical experience designing sustainable and culturally responsive urban environments through hands-on projects and collaborations with industry professionals.

For those interested in urban development, Swarrnim University offers a master's in urban planning in India, preparing graduates for leadership roles in shaping the cities of the future. Additionally, the university provides fashion design courses in Gandhinagar, enabling students to pursue careers in the vibrant fashion world.

Swarrnim University is not just an educational institution but a hub of innovation and creativity. Its commitment to interdisciplinary education is a key contributor to developing sustainable and culturally rich urban environments in India.

Conclusion

The interdisciplinary approach to urban development, integrating fashion, architecture, and urban planning, offers a holistic framework for creating cities that are functional and reflective of India’s diverse cultural heritage. By fostering collaboration among these disciplines, cities can evolve into dynamic and sustainable urban centers that cater to the needs of their inhabitants.

Swarrnim University in Gujarat exemplifies this approach, providing a platform for education and research that bridges the gap between traditional knowledge and modern innovation. As we progress, institutions like Swarrnim University will be crucial in shaping the future of urban development in India, ensuring that our cities continue to thrive and inspire future generations.

[nicmaruniversitypune]

Designing Livable Cities: Masters in Urban Planning in India

Masters in Urban Planning program in India: Dive into the intricacies of city design, sustainable development, and community engagement. Gain practical land use planning, transportation systems, and environmental preservation skills. Prepare to lead initiatives that create livable, vibrant cities that meet the needs of diverse populations and future generations.

[epochhistorymagazine]

Lost Water

'We were standing at an intersection on one of Athens’ busiest roads when Tom pointed to the horizon, where the road and all the vehicles disappeared into the distance.

“Plato used to walk along here,” He said, “It was his favourite river.”

I squinted but couldn’t see anything that looked like a river, not even a straightened urban stream. In fact, you can’t see any of Athens’ rivers if you’re above ground; they’re all buried.' - Charlotte Evans

[teachanarchy]

Is Chandigarh a perfectly planned city? - Vikramāditya Prakāsh

[aurizondatatech1]

Navigating the Road of Data: International Traffic Survey and Data Collection Companies in India

[theconfuseddrone]

ANALYSIS OF THE EXISTING HOUSING DATA OF BDPA REGION

Prepared and compiled by Swetaleen Sahoo, Barsha Priyadarshini, Anuska Priyadarsani Patra, and Priyanka Kalet, as part of the academic curriculum of the 7th Semester Regional Planning Studio (2020-24), Bachelor of Planning, Odisha University of Technology and Research (OUTR). This post analyses various housing data collected from various sources on the Internet. This is an attempt to understand…

[in-design-studio]

The Essential Qualities of Famous Interior Designers

Interior design is an art that transforms spaces into captivating, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments. Behind the success of iconic interior design projects are talented and visionary designers with unique qualities. This article will explore the essential qualities that distinguish famous architects and interior designers in Hyderabad and contribute to their prominence in the industry.

Creativity and Imagination One of the foremost qualities of famous interior designers in Hyderabad is their boundless creativity and vivid imagination. They possess the ability to envision a space’s potential, seeing beyond its existing constraints to create innovative and inspiring designs. Whether it’s a residential home, commercial space, or public building, their ability to think outside the box allows them to deliver awe-inspiring and one-of-a-kind interiors.

Attention to Detail Famous interior design firms in Hyderabad are meticulous when it comes to details. They understand that every element, no matter how small, plays a significant role in the overall design. From selecting the perfect color palette and furniture pieces to choosing the right textures and finishes, their attention to detail ensures a cohesive and polished result.

Strong Communication Skills Effective communication is vital in the world of interior design. Famous designers excel in articulating their ideas to clients, team members, and collaborators. They actively listen to their clients’ needs and preferences, translating them into design concepts that align with the project’s vision. Their ability to communicate clearly and concisely fosters strong client relationships and enhances project success.

Adaptability and Flexibility The interior design landscape is dynamic, with trends constantly evolving. Famous interior designers in Hyderabad, India remain adaptable and flexible, embracing new technologies, materials, and styles while staying true to their design principles. This quality allows them to create contemporary and timeless spaces, appealing to a diverse clientele.

Business Acumen Behind creativity and artistry, famous interior designers possess strong business acumen. They understand the financial aspects of design projects, including budgeting, cost estimation, and resource management. This helps them deliver projects within stipulated budgets and timelines while maintaining design integrity.

Collaborative Spirit Interior design projects often involve collaborating with architects, contractors, artisans, and other professionals. Famous designers exhibit excellent teamwork and a collaborative spirit. They value the contributions of others, encourage creative input, and foster a harmonious working environment. This collaboration ensures a seamless integration of design elements and a successful project outcome.

Continuous Learning and Growth The design world is ever-evolving, and famous interior designers understand the importance of continuous learning. They stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and industry advancements. By attending design events and workshops and networking with peers, they broaden their horizons and push the boundaries of their creativity.

Client-Centered Approach Luxury interior designers in Hyderabad place their clients at the heart of the design process. They invest time in understanding their clients’ lifestyles, preferences, and aspirations, tailoring designs to reflect their individuality. This client-centered approach results in happy and satisfied clients and establishes a strong reputation through positive word-of-mouth.

Becoming a good interior designer in Hyderabad requires a unique combination of artistic vision, technical expertise, and interpersonal skills. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication are crucial in translating ideas into captivating designs.

[theastrohub]

what city you should live in based on your moon sign ⏾

astrology can help you make an informed decision for something as significant as where one will live. and especially if you are a more hedonistic person like myself, choosing a place to live with a focus on personal satisfaction is a guaranteed upgrade in quality of life. it also helps you narrow down what your true emotional needs are and live a life more in alignment with your truest self.

choosing what city to live in based on your moon sign helps an individual with emotional fulfillment, being able to create a sense of belonging, stress reduction, enhanced creativity and productivity, better romantic and platonic relationships, and so much more.

here are my thoughts on your ideal city based on your moon sign:

一

⏾ virgo moon 一

kobe, japan + washington, D.C. (USA) + zurich, switzerland

you likely prefer a clean, walkable city that is health-conscious. ideal cities have paved roads, a lack of industrial machines or well-regulated factories, and a structured, straightforward urban planning model. a city safe enough to raise babies and young children is your benchmark. you value a city that emphasizes logical aspects of life. air pollution and trash management are crucial, so you'd thrive in cities with high air quality indexes, like those mentioned above.

一

⏾ libra moon 一

florence, italy + brooklyn, new york + capetown, south africa + amsterdam, netherlands + paris, france

as one of my favorite moon signs, you truly appreciate beauty, harmony, and aesthetics in where and how you live. you love cultured cities with plenty of artistic experiences. perhaps you're an artist yourself, seeking communities where you can express that creativity. a city that offers a balance of cityscape, mountainscape, and access to bodies of water appeals to your sense of harmony. you’re drawn to colorful, multicultural environments where you can accumulate luxury goods.

一

⏾ scorpio moon 一

new orleans, louisiana + mumbai, india + providence, rhode island

this one is tricky because scorpio Moons are known for being extremely intense and private, which doesn't always translate to a livable city (think Bermuda Triangle). however, you likely value transformative experiences and a form of social power. you want to be in a city that matches your intensity—a place that might be politically involved, spiritually inclined, or even part of some controversy. communities where you can explore taboo subjects or rise within social hierarchies are ideal for you.

一

⏾ sagittarius moon 一

toronto, canada + prage, czech republic + krabi, thailand + dubai, UAE

as one of the more hedonistic moon signs, you crave freedom—to be, to do, to have, etc. you prefer cities with a lot of versatility for living, offering options like big homes, sprawling lofts, small cozy one-bedrooms, and everything in between. cultured and religious cities appeal to your belief system, which is crucial to you. You need a place where you can live your philosophies freely and have fun. a city with many opportunities for adventure and easy access to other exciting places is essential. think road trips, bungee jumping, scuba diving.

一

⏾ capricorn moon 一

london, england + manhattan, new york + melbourne, australia

one word: old-fashioned. capricorns are often seen as traditional, and there's a reason for that. as a capricorn moon, you value cities that operate like institutions—places that have stood the test of time without much change to their foundation. ambition and hard work are of utmost importance, so cities with a professional or hustle culture appeal to you. you are drawn to cities in countries with a strong identity or culture that gratify your sense of tradition. cities where you can network, accumulate wealth, and indulge in luxuries are your ideal.

一

⏾ aquarius moon 一

san francisco, california + rome, italy + new orleans, louisiana + portland, oregon

with pluto in aquarius, I anticipate more moves for aquarius moons, which is great because this is the most community-centered sign in my opinion. aquarius moons value living in cities where they can positively contribute, socialize, and build relationships based on shared interests. you are drawn to innovative, creative cities that are always ahead of trends. you also appreciate cities that are civically mindful and contribute to humanitarian efforts on both local and grand scales.

一

⏾ pisces moon 一

bali, indonesia + bora bora, french polynesia + rome, italy + paris, france

pisces moons are one of the moon signs that truly need to feel "drawn" to a place before visiting or residing there. emotional fulfillment, romance, and creativity are non-negotiable for pisces moons. because of this, beautiful, artistic cities with many opportunities to be near bodies of water are ideal. beach cities and honeymoon destinations are perfect for pisces Moons' empathic and sensitive nature. A city with a calm undercurrent is essential to satisfy your need for rest and peace.

一

⏾ aries moon 一

rome, italy + los angeles, california + tokyo, japan + cairo, egypt + mumbai, india

similar to capricorn moon, its cardinal sibling, aries moons need the opportunity to keep on the go wherever they live. For this reason, you're best suited to "cities that never sleep"—places where you can stay active, compete in major global industries, and reach newer heights. you're drawn to cities with fiery traditions and those that excel in national rankings. you also appreciate cities that are vocal about their value systems and embrace trends.

一

⏾ taurus moon 一

honolulu, hawaii + havana, cuba + las vegas, nevada + ibiza, spain + tokyo, japan

much like libra moons, venus-ruled moons love venus-ruled cities. taurus moons enjoy cities that are comfortable in every sense—materially, socially, politically, and aesthetically. you appreciate cities that are openly hedonistic—notorious vacation spots are actually great places for you to establish yourself. cities with strong tourism markets are good for your desire for material success as they are epicenters of culture and attract people from all walks of life.

一

⏾ gemini moon 一

chicago, illinois + boston, massachusetts + cairo, egypt + lisbon, portugal

as a gemini moon, cities that are versatile, education-centered, and logical are appealing to you. you thrive in places where "everyone knows everyone" and socializing is a priority. cities known for their educational institutions and vibrant social life satisfy your need for variety and communication. cities with a strong tourist presence are also appealing, as you enjoy the ability to feel like a tourist in your own city at any time.

一

⏾ cancer moon 一

sydney, australia + niagara falls , new york + instanbul, turkey + berne, switzerland + mogadishu, somalia

cancer moons love domestic cities that are more feminine in nature. Like their sister sign capricorn, they strongly value traditions, both cultural and social, but in a softer manner. they prefer cities with a strong influence by women and things traditionally associated with women, like fashion, beauty, and the arts. cities with beaches and a strong luminary presence are essential, as they are the water-bearers of the zodiac. cities with a balance between domesticity and capitalism appeal to their need for material security and a good home. a city with a strong real estate market and that is ideal for newlyweds and families is also preferred.

一

⏾ leo moon 一

los angeles, california + miami, florida + mexico city, mexico + marrakesh, morocco + ibiza, spain

much like aquarius moons, the need to be around people is prominent with leo moons. leo moons value being in cities that honor appearance and aesthetics. being seen, being talked about, romance, and play are priority for a leo moon when moving. a city where they can explore artistic pursuits and new cultures. cities that promote health and wellness and image. cities with social hierarchies and strong social networks. cities that are "popular" with the whole world. also cities that are known for night-life and social life. cities where you can regularly rub elbows with important people and indulge in the grandiosities of life.

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the moon in astrology is a gateway to a deeper understanding of one's desires, needs, and motivations which can help in making better-informed decisions on where to move or establish a life. I highly suggest you take this into consideration on your next trip or relocation.

thank you for reading 💋

@astrobaeza

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[maslows-pyramid-scheme]

Actually bathrooms shouldn't be gendered at all that's half the problem.

In communities that lack access to single-sex bathrooms, you witness an increase in the rate of sexual violence, physical health issues like incontinence, and mental health issues like PTSD. If women's health and safety aren't a problem to you, then by all means continue insisting that there's no need to provide them, but you should know these issues disproportionately affect poor women, disabled women, young women, and women from ethnically, linguistically, and racially diverse backgrounds (e.g. bathrooms in northern India are particularly unsafe for women).

I'll leave you with a quote from a book I read recently - Invisible Women, by Caroline Criado Perez:

According to the UN, one in three women lack access to safe toilets, and WaterAid reports that girls and women collectively spend 97 billion hours a year finding a safe space to relieve themselves [which affects their productivity, as women are more likely to be engaged in the informal economy, and their safety]. Local governments that fail to provide public toilets may believe that they are cutting costs, but a 2015 Yale study suggests that this is a false economy. [They linked] the ‘risk of sexual assault to the number of sanitation facilities and the time a woman must spend walking to a toilet, and calculated the tangible costs (lost earnings, medical, court, and prison expenses) and intangible costs (pain and suffering, risk of homicide) [against] the cost of installing and maintaining public toilets … [they found public toilets could save one town $5 million better off, which is a conservative estimate, as it doesn’t include the various health benefits saved from women having more regular and more private bowel movements (e.g. chronic constipation, cholera)]. Health problems arising from a lack of public sanitary provision are not restricted to low-income countries. Canadian and British studies have revealed that referrals for urinary-tract infection, problems with distended bladders, and a range of other uro-gynaeloogical problems have increased proportionately to [toilet inaccessibility]. Urban planning that fails to account for women’s risk of being sexually assaulted is a clear violation of women’s equal right to public spaces – and inadequate sanitary provision is only one of the many ways planners exclude women with this kind of gender-insensitive design. ... For women who try to escape from war and disaster, the gender-neutral nightmare often continues in the refugee camps of the world … [although] international guidelines state that toilets in refugee camps should be sex-segregated, marked, and lockable, [sic] these requirements are often not enforced [and] research by the Women’s Refugee Commission has found that women and girls in accommodation centres in Germany and Sweden are vulnerable to rape, assault, and other violence…