This book encapsulates an exploration of design thinking in 21st-century smart cities, where the fusion of physical and digital realms redefines architectural practice. The global prevalence of advanced technology has led to a profound transformation, blurring boundaries and introducing digital interventions that reshape urban landscapes. The volume poses critical questions about the role of architects in smart cities, questioning whether they merely disseminate technological innovations or have the potential to forge new design ideologies countering technological dominance. Focused on postmodern and contemporary case studies, the chapters delve into transdisciplinarity, identity, ownership, and the visual experience in smart city design. It brings forth issues of participation, inclusivity, and subjective shifts, offering a critical reflection on architectural trends within smart cities. Positioned as a valuable addition to global discussions on the future of architecture, this volume provides insights for planners and designers, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the evolving dynamics in smart city design.

Vasiliki Geropanta is an Assistant Professor at the Technical University of Crete, Faculty of Architecture. She holds a PhD in Architecture and Urban Planning from the Università degli studi di Roma, Sapienza, Italy, an Ma in Housing & Urbanism from the Architectural Association, School of Architecture, London, UK, and is a Dipl. Architect Engineer from the University of Patras, School of Architecture.