Author Description

In the age of data explosion, the power to visualize, strategically organize and overlay complex information has become an invaluable design tool. New York based architectural and urban designers Ida Tam, Ran Yan & Felita Li in their recent publication, entitled "Reconsidering Authenticity: urban analytics and historic preservation of Lilong in Shanghai" leveraging on various data mining and infographics techniques to visualize the problem of historic preservation in Shanghai. As the team notes, "despite the abundant data available, the power of mapping in architectural design has under served by the literal, linear visual representation of information. It is through rigorous process of cross-referencing and overlaying different matrices of information, one can truly identify the 'hidden' patterns, problems and opportunities." Through the aid of 2D and 3D computer programs such as Rhinoceros, Grasshopper, 3D AutoCAD and GIS-related softwares, matrices of historic, demographic, transportation and infrastructure data of Shanghai are being paired; relationships are being identified and recreated. The process of data reorganization not only facilitate formation of pragmatic historic preservation solutions, but also prioritize intangible issues, such as sustainable growth, community and social networks, that have been previously neglected.