The Future City: Urban Resilience and the Power of Data

Our societies are surrounded by an abundance of data in both the online and physical world. Currently, not only issues of migration and integration are at the center of attention - urban populations are facing challenges such as rapid urbanization, climate change, capitalism, pandemics, and increased risk from natural hazards. Our systems need to change, evolve and adapt in response to the changing circumstances. Urban resilience is a critical agenda. Has data the power to help us understand better our communities and complex reality? Can data help us create new tools to manage urban risk and design resilient cities?
HQ Architects has worked systematically using data and technology as tools to understand social behaviour and community needs, translating them into physical space. Erez Ella, Founding Partner of HQ Architects, an international practice based in Tel Aviv and Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council and member of the Scottish Cities Alliance, will discuss the power of data on improving social and spatial conditions in the built environment, and why technological centric solutions can promote better living conditions and urban resilience.

HQ works on projects across various scales and territories, from temporary urban installations to a brand new smart city in the middle of the desert, among others.

The Scottish Cities Alliance is a unique collaboration of Scotland’s seven cities – Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Perth and Stirling – and the Scottish Government, working together to create the conditions for attracting investment, stimulating economic activity and creating business growth across Scotland’s cities.