Southern Europe Inspection
-San Sebastian, Lisboa-
Facilitated discussions with local government officials responsible for urban policy and conducted on-site field research.
NTT Urban Solutions Research Institute
2026.03
We conducted an urban development-focused inspection programme in San Sebastián, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal. Rather than relying on large-scale redevelopment, both cities place strong emphasis on preserving and evolving their unique identities. Through this research, we gained insights into the essential elements required for future city-making.
WHY
Urban development around the world is rapidly shifting from maximizing floor-area efficiency toward a more human-centered approach. While environmental performance has become a major focus in recent years and Nordic cities are often selected as destinations for study tours, this programme intentionally focused on Southern European cities through the lens of emotional value — the qualities that create a sense of identity, belonging, and attachment to place.
FOCUS
A key priority of this programme was direct dialogue with local policymakers. We intentionally structured the visit by first meeting with public officials and gaining an understanding of their policies and perspectives before exploring the city itself. This approach significantly deepens both the understanding and interpretation of the urban environment.
Creating opportunities for meaningful exchange with local stakeholders is one of BuildVision’s core strengths.
PROCESS
・Research and proposal of inspection destinations
・Coordination with local organisations and stakeholders
・Development of the inspection programme and schedule
・On-site accompaniment and interpretation
・Report production
OUTCOME
By studying two distinctive cities that place strong emphasis on urban identity, we gained high-resolution insights into both the philosophies behind city-making and how those philosophies are translated into practice.
One of BuildVision’s strengths is the ability to design tailored inspection programmes that respond to each client’s objectives, regardless of geography or theme.
Read the Report
