Urban Regeneration: From Design to Social Innovation—Does Organizational Aesthetics Matter?

Abstract

Urban renewal is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing climate change, resource management, and social sustainability. Effective strategies must integrate physical infrastructure (“hardware”) with cultural and social dynamics (“software”) to foster resilience and inclusivity. This paper proposes an organizational aesthetics framework, highlighting how cultural aesthetics drive social innovation, participatory urbanism, and community well-being in urban regeneration. By embedding aesthetics into renewal processes, cities can enhance place identity, cohesion, and economic vitality while promoting sustainability. A bibliometric analysis maps research trends and emerging discourse, identifying key themes in aesthetics and urban governance. The findings underscore aesthetics’ growing significance in policy and planning, offering insights for urban designers, policymakers, and administrators. This research advances an interdisciplinary model integrating aesthetics with sustainable urban governance, ensuring that cities evolve functionally and culturally. The paper provides a structured approach to enhancing urban design, policy frameworks, and inclusive regeneration strategies for socially and environmentally enriched cities.

1. Introduction

Cities now stand as central hubs for human development, evolving rapidly to meet the dual challenges of satisfying citizens’ demands for simplicity and efficiency while aligning with Sustainable Development Goals and addressing climate change. In recent decades, policymakers have recognized the need to align urban development with sustainability, reimagining strategies and redefining how services are managed and provided to the public. Smart city initiatives have emerged worldwide as a means to pursue these objectives, often involving the digitization of public service delivery, which streamlines bureaucratic processes and shifts core functions from traditional physical entities to digital realms.

An essential concern in this context revolves around shaping services to foster social security, inclusivity, and citizen participation, ultimately cultivating a sense of community that is vital for building consensus and endorsing long-term development strategies. However, this alone is insufficient to formulate a comprehensive urban development strategy. The physical aspects of urban development, or the “hardware”, are equally critical for achieving communal objectives.

Among the diverse factors affecting the sustainability of urban areas, the aesthetic aspect of urban infrastructure plays an indispensable role, extending beyond mere decoration to shape social cohesion, environmental responsibility, and economic vitality. Beyond its traditional association with beautification, the aesthetic aspect in urban development significantly influences social behavior, economic activity, and environmental stewardship. Thoughtfully designed urban spaces contribute to citizens’ psychological well-being, strengthen social interactions, and cultivate a sense of belonging, thereby reinforcing the importance of aesthetics in urban sustainability. Moreover, aesthetically designed urban spaces contribute to economic growth by attracting tourism and investment while simultaneously encouraging environmentally sustainable practices through the integration of green infrastructure and biophilic design, reinforcing their significance in sustainable urban development. By studying the aesthetic dimension, urban planners and policymakers can better understand how design elements shape human experiences, ultimately reinforcing the broader goals of sustainable urban regeneration.

This article explores the aesthetic aspect of urban infrastructure advancement from an organizational perspective, emphasizing the pivotal role of culture within urban management to promote the purposes of sustainable urban regeneration, including factors associated with utility, aesthetics, and the well-being of the community. These theoretical premises stand as a shift in focus from the purely decorative role of cultural aspects in urban design to their potential as catalysts for social innovation practices. The theoretical framework developed in this paper bridges the principles of organizational aesthetics with urban development processes, offering a novel perspective on how aesthetic elements influence both the physical and social dimensions of urban spaces. By conceptualizing urban regeneration through an aesthetic–organizational lens, we introduce an interdisciplinary approach that integrates elements of cultural heritage, community participation, and social innovation. This theoretical framework is structured around three key dimensions: (1) the visual and sensory impact of urban aesthetics, (2) the role of aesthetics in fostering social cohesion and identity, and (3) the connection between aesthetics and functional urban governance. To further clarify its potential impact, the framework is applicable in multiple urban regeneration scenarios, such as the following:

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heritage preservation and cultural districts, applying aesthetic–organizational principles to historic urban areas to enhance cultural identity while maintaining sustainable urban practices.

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smart cities, integrating digital tools with aesthetic principles to create intelligent and engaging urban spaces that promote citizen interaction.

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community-led urban interventions, facilitating participatory urban design where aesthetics serve as a means to empower local communities in shaping their environments.

Additionally, this framework extends existing theories by connecting aesthetic–organizational studies (Strati, Gagliardi) with contemporary urban governance theories. This integration highlights how sensory and symbolic experiences contribute to urban well-being and participatory governance. By embedding aesthetics within sustainable urban management strategies, our framework provides policymakers and urban planners with a structured model to enhance both the tangible and intangible aspects of urban development.

This article adopts a theoretical approach to analyze the significance of aesthetics being a constituent element of the urban management hardware. It conducts a literature review of the subject to provide guidance for forthcoming research in this area. Furthermore, a bibliometric study of existing academic publications is carried out to establish the current state of knowledge and the advancement of research in the realm of urban regeneration policies and strategies. The subsequent sections of this paper will help understand how the concepts of urban hardware and software have evolved in the context of urban regeneration, an examination of aesthetics, and its artistic and relational aspects. The discussion and conclusion will summarize the implications, limitations, and possible paths for forthcoming research.

2. Literature Review

2.1. Urban Regeneration Vis-à-Vis Social Innovation

In contemporary times, Europe, and even beyond, is grappling with a significant issue of population decline. Numerous individuals are abandoning urban centers due to a range of adverse factors that have eroded and diminished urban life’s standard of living. This mass exodus from urban centers is attributed to various causes. One pivotal factor comprises the economic ramifications of globalization. Many former industrial hubs now experience depopulation due to the relocation of manufacturing to nations where labor expenses are lower [1,2].

A second substantial contributor is the aging of the European population, coupled with an alarmingly low birth rate, which is resulting in the depopulation of cities [3]. An illustrative instance of this occurrence is the coastal city of Genoa, which has witnessed a nearly 30% decrease in its population over the last half-century [4]. These causes can be broadly categorized into two primary aspects: suburbanization and the advancing age of the resident population. These factors give rise to a critical aspect of depopulation, which, as the present article finds, is more a consequence of urban transformation than a root cause [5]. When gentrification is pushed to its utmost limits, it drives populations out of city centers, often to more outlying areas, which are increasingly distanced from the urban cores.

The exact factors intensifying the trends of gentrification remain somewhat unclear and are subject to diverse interpretations within the literature. It is evident that multiple factors contribute to this phenomenon. Another driver of depopulation comprises the changing spatial dynamics of urban geography. Major urban centers continue to attract specialized talent, leading to the migration of human resources from medium-sized and small towns to rapidly expanding metropolitan areas, often resulting in haphazard and unregulated housing development. Within this context, we note the degradation of the physical, social, and intellectual aspects of the urban environment.

The primary focus of this paper is on the deterioration of urban heritage, which can be understood as a balanced combination of elements working together to create a cohesive urban fabric. When certain elements within this process are lacking, the overall cohesion is compromised. Therefore, examining the various components of the urban fabric is a central aspect of this paper. The role of aesthetics and social innovation in urban regeneration varies across cultural contexts. For instance, in Europe, heritage conservation and historical aesthetics play significant roles in urban renewal projects, as seen in Barcelona’s revitalization efforts. In contrast, in rapidly urbanizing regions like China, aesthetic-led social innovation often integrates technology and smart city solutions to enhance urban experiences. Meanwhile, in Latin America, participatory urban design has been crucial in incorporating community-driven aesthetic initiatives. By examining these diverse approaches, we highlight how aesthetic and social innovation strategies must be adapted to different cultural, economic, and social landscapes.

Expanding on the aspect of urban infrastructure, it is essential to consider that gentrification is no longer solely viewed as a desirable and positive phenomenon. Some scholars advance that it can be regarded as the negative consequence of uncontrolled privatization stemming from land tenure management [6]. From this perspective, the relentless growth of major cities has led to the establishment of densely populated residential areas, primarily consisting of affordable housing, often lacking social oversight in service provision. Over time, this phenomenon has become self-perpetuating, pushing the most economically disadvantaged segments of the population further away from city centers, where access to public services is limited. This process has particularly significant implications in regions with high levels of migration and social divisions. It has facilitated the emergence of significant racial segregation, leading to increased crime and social unrest. Moreover, a few specialists characterize gentrification as a societal transaction, where low-skilled labor forces are displaced from city centers by high-skilled residents, thereby creating divisions within the urban social fabric.

2.2. The Role of Culture in Urban Management and Sustainable Urban Regeneration

Culture plays a critical role in urban management by shaping policies that promote inclusivity, heritage preservation, and community engagement. A city’s cultural assets, such as historical buildings, public spaces, and artistic traditions, contribute significantly to its sustainability and regeneration. By integrating cultural policies within urban management, local authorities can create environments that reflect the identity and values of the community. This fosters a sense of belonging, strengthens social cohesion, and enhances the attractiveness of urban spaces.

Sustainable urban regeneration requires a holistic approach that includes cultural considerations alongside economic and environmental factors. Cities that invest in cultural initiatives, such as public art projects, festivals, and heritage conservation, generate social and economic benefits. For instance, cultural districts and creative hubs attract tourism, generate employment, and encourage innovation, thereby revitalizing neglected urban areas. Additionally, culture-led urban regeneration supports environmental sustainability by repurposing existing infrastructure rather than resorting to extensive new developments.

2.3. The Relationship Between Social Innovation and the Aesthetic Aspect of Urban Infrastructure

Social innovation in urban development emphasizes participatory governance, co-creation, and community-driven solutions. Aesthetic urban infrastructure plays a pivotal role in fostering social innovation by shaping environments that promote inclusivity, well-being, and civic engagement. Thoughtful urban design, including green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, and interactive public art, enhances social interactions and creates a platform for cultural expression.

Aesthetic improvements in urban spaces can drive social innovation by encouraging community-led initiatives. For example, urban beautification projects that involve local artists and residents foster collaboration and strengthen neighborhood identity. Moreover, aesthetically appealing spaces can serve as catalysts for economic revitalization, attracting businesses and investment while reinforcing a city’s cultural uniqueness. This relationship highlights the necessity of integrating aesthetics into social innovation strategies for sustainable and livable cities.

From this perspective, what we have referred to as the decline in various aspects of the urban environment illustrates its most troubling manifestations. Numerous negative instances can be observed as outcomes of such processes. For instance, urban management in Ile-de-France has led to heightened social tensions, turning gentrification into the creation of isolated and marginalized communities [7,8]. Another instance of gentrification’s failure can be seen in Brussels, particularly in the context of deindustrialization, which has contributed to the repopulation of districts marked by ethnic divisions [9].

It is evident that re-evaluating urban regeneration must be organized by considering the various facets of the urban environment. This entails harmonizing the mindset of the people, the physical infrastructure, and the design of the urban landscape to meet structural, visual, and economic requirements, all while incorporating strategies for social inclusion and economic prosperity, which are integral components of the urban fabric [10,11]. This becomes especially crucial when such initiatives are intended to yield lasting effects over the long term.

Over the past decade, it has not been uncommon to witness cities leveraging international events as opportunities to plan their urban renewal, anticipating sustained economic benefits for many years thereafter. This is exemplified by cities hosting events such as the Olympics and Universal Expositions. The path towards success is marked by numerous positive cases but is also dotted with failures that underscore the importance of resource allocation and comprehensive planning for such transformative projects. These examples highlight the intricate interplay among the hardware, software, and mind-ware components mentioned earlier.

One internationally acclaimed model of successful urban renewal came through in an international event held in Barcelona 1992, the Summer Olympic Games. The extensive urban revitalization plan undertaken in Barcelona (1986–1992) involved a substantial overhaul of the city’s physical infrastructure. This encompassed the process of making the city center more people-friendly, establishing an entirely new residential area for the Olympic Village, and executing a technology-based approach to foster culture, community cohesion, and environmentally sustainable urban lifestyles. The case of Barcelona has been recognized as a best practice within the realm of the UN’s sustainable urban development program, the UN-Habitat [12].

On the flip side, there are numerous instances of urban renewal planning that have proven to be disappointing, failing to gain the approval of the local residents and often resulting in underutilized facilities. Some of the most prominent examples of these unsuccessful initiatives are of the Summer Olympic Games held in Athens (2004) and London (2012), as well as the Winter Olympic Games hosted in Turin in 2006. These cases all shared a common factor of failure, characterized by a heavy emphasis on altering the physical infrastructure in areas where ambitious gentrification efforts were implemented (e.g., the Lingotto in Turin and East London’s outskirts), often overlooking the importance of the mind-ware and software components.

The Olympic Village in Barcelona serves as an exemplary case of how aesthetic principles can be integrated into urban regeneration to drive social and economic revitalization. The transformation of this former industrial and underutilized area into a vibrant, sustainable urban space exemplifies the power of aesthetics in reshaping the built environment. The project, carried out as part of the city’s preparations for the 1992 Summer Olympics, combined infrastructure upgrades with public space enhancements, ensuring that the newly developed waterfront, parks, and housing units maintained both functional and aesthetic value. This initiative not only improved Barcelona’s international image but also fostered long-term community engagement and economic growth. By incorporating public art, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and green corridors, the Olympic Village redevelopment illustrates how aesthetics can be a strategic component of sustainable urban transformation, reinforcing the theoretical framework proposed in this paper.

Additionally, other urban regeneration projects worldwide, such as the High Line in New York City and the HafenCity redevelopment in Hamburg, showcase how aesthetic urban interventions contribute to social innovation and economic revitalization. These examples underscore the necessity of embedding aesthetics in urban planning to create visually appealing, socially cohesive, and economically viable urban spaces.

At first glance, the idea of a lifeless and impersonal renovation of buildings, plazas, and roads might seem like a shallow issue, focusing solely on the outward appearance of urban heritage as a mere aspect of the physical infrastructure, seemingly unrelated to the other essentials of the urban fabric. The subsequent section is an endeavor to outline a research plan that underscores the pivotal role of aesthetics in strategies of urban regeneration, viewed through organizational change.

2.4. Aesthetics as a New Paradigm of Organizational Change?

In the traditional philosophical perspective, aesthetics pertains to both examining and appreciating nature and the arts’ beauty as well as the analysis of sensory sensitivities, those experienced through human senses. In this view, aesthetics is seen as an aspect of external perception, complementing logical and mental perceptions. Over time, aesthetics as a concept has evolved, initially encompassing the idea of mere physical attractiveness, which has been deliberately embraced by marketing theory. It was only in the early 1990s that scholars began to shift their focus to the role of aesthetics in organizational studies, recognizing it as a significant constituent of organizational behavior, along with technical and ideological aspects [13].

This line of academic exploration was initiated by the works of Gagliardi [14,15,16] and Strati [17,18,19,20,21,22]. They emphasized a new approach to the study of organizations, one that regarded the aesthetics of organizations as a composite amalgamation of elements that elicits a sustainable, favorable judgment of them [23]. This perspective is rooted in the examination of communication modalities, demonstrative behaviors, and sensory comprehension [15]. These elements not only result in immediate effects on the tangible aspect (i.e., such as producing visually appealing products) but also extend to the software aspect, taking into account processes, individuals, and emotions. The fresh approach to organizational aesthetics centers on the examination of behavior, represented by any deliberate result of action perceived through human cognition [15,16]. Organizational aesthetics provides a valuable perspective in understanding the interplay between urban planning and social innovation. As proposed by Strati and Gagliardi, organizational aesthetics encompasses both tangible and intangible aspects of a system, emphasizing the sensory, symbolic, and emotional dimensions that influence human engagement. In urban planning, these principles can be translated into creating aesthetically driven spaces that foster social interactions, cultural cohesion, and psychological well-being. By integrating aesthetic considerations into urban design, cities can move beyond mere functionality and incorporate human-centered design principles that enhance livability and community participation. The application of organizational aesthetics in urban planning highlights the role of aesthetics in shaping not only the built environment but also the behavioral and emotional responses of urban residents.

Strati presents an alternative viewpoint by highlighting the aesthetics of everyday work in organizations [21]. This perspective emphasizes the following:

• The stimulation and inhibition of sensory and perceptual abilities, and the significance of sensitive aesthetic evaluations in work environments.
• The subconscious impact of sensory, emotional, and aesthetic qualities of organizational objects, which contribute to the emotional atmosphere within an organization.
• The active character of everyday management, emphasizing the interplay between the physicality of individuals and the material properties of artifacts.
• The profound impact of art, individual expertise and knowledge, and innovation on work and organizational procedures.
• The emphasis on a critical analysis of daily work life in organizations, considering the emancipatory potential of aesthetics.

Strati suggests a fourfold approach to understanding the aesthetics of organizations, including the following:

• The archaeological approach, which examines the tangible and intangible aspects of organizations (for example, a brand’s emblem or the layout of a workplace) and highlights the symbolism and aesthetics within the realm of organizational life.
• The empathic–logical perspective (reminiscent of Gagliardi’s ideas from 1990 and 1996), which centers on how sensory conditions established by artifacts form the foundation for behavior.
• The aesthetic approach, which explores the emotional understanding of organizational life, aiming to comprehend how interactions among individuals within the organization and nurturing unity among its members occur. This approach also considers software components that promote integration and harmony within the organization.
• The artistic method, which strives to cultivate a dynamic and pleasurable ambiance to bolster cohesion and relationships among members of the organization.

Additionally, Weggerman et al. [24] introduce the idea of assessing processes from an aesthetic perspective. They propose a research plan that analyzes the stages of organizational behavior influenced by aesthetics. The argument is that that instructing managers in matters of aesthetic principles (as advocated by Nickson et al., [25,26]) can lead to improved business performance, considering a learning journey that considers aesthetic sensitivity, the organizational design’s aesthetic quality, the aesthetic quality of organizational processes, and their impact on the aesthetic quality of products and services [27]. Exploring an educational journey that encompasses an awareness of aesthetics, the aesthetic excellence of organizational layout, the aesthetic excellence of organizational procedures, and their influence on the aesthetic quality of services and products.

Furthermore, the concept goes beyond structural capital derived from aesthetic education, encompassing relational capital. This aspect is explained through its influence on the well-being of organization members [27].

This framework is recognized for its efficacy in shaping organizational behavior, extending beyond the simple use of a predetermined structure by introducing elements of aesthetic sensibility in both the physical and conceptual aspects.

To employ this framework in the context of the current research, Di Croce [28] emphasizes the significance of relational aesthetics in the context of artists. He states that contemporary artists influenced by relational aesthetics “create concrete spaces” through their work, where alternative ways of living are possible” [28] (p. 100). This statement underscores the importance of aesthetic sensibility in innovation, which adds value to all the stages outlined by Weggerman. In this context, it makes sense to broaden the application of organizational aesthetic principles to urban regeneration strategies.

La Cecla [29] endorses this perspective by proposing that the lack of a relational component in urban regeneration processes is a factor that contributes to modern urban problems such as gentrification and the commodification of the “sense of place” [29,30]. In light of this perspective, gentrification arises because of prioritizing the physical (hardware) constituent of urban regeneration while neglecting the relational (software) one entirely.

An alternative viewpoint for examining this phenomenon is presented in terms of the economic expenses associated with aesthetics. According to Alberini et al. [31], individuals are responsive to the economic aspects of urban regeneration. Research demonstrates that people tend to react negatively to the rejuvenation of a location lacking significant cultural and artistic heritage while they are more positively inclined to accept the revitalization of places with cultural significance.

These components collectively provide us with the opportunity to cultivate a fertile ground for discourse within the existing literature. This literature encompasses a wide range of perspectives and revolves around the concept of urban sustainability, encompassing its three dimensions: environmental, social, and economic considerations.

3. Methodology

3.1. Material

Review of the Existing Literature

To ensure the rigor and reliability of our bibliometric study, we carefully designed the document selection process based on established bibliometric methodologies in urban planning research. Our goal was to investigate the body of academic publications through the selection of keywords was guided by a preliminary review of urban sustainability and aesthetics literature, focusing on terms such as “urban regeneration”, “aesthetic urban planning”, and “social innovation”. These keywords were carefully chosen to ensure they encompassed a diverse range of perspectives, from theoretical discussions on aesthetics to empirical studies on urban policy and regeneration strategies. To enhance the robustness of the dataset, we applied Boolean operators (AND/OR) to refine the search queries and filter out irrelevant literature. We systematically searched two leading academic databases—Scopus and Web of Science (WoS)—which are widely recognized for their comprehensive indexing of peer-reviewed research in the fields of urban studies, environmental planning, and social sciences. Literature screening was conducted using Scopus and Web of Science databases, applying inclusion criteria based on relevance, publication year (1976–2022), and peer-reviewed status. The chosen data range of 1976–2022 was determined based on the evolution of academic discourse in urban planning and aesthetics. The starting point, 1976, marked the emergence of scholarly interest in integrating aesthetics into urban planning frameworks. By covering multiple decades, our study provided a longitudinal perspective on the intellectual development of this topic. This approach enabled us to track research trends, identify key turning points, and capture the broader trajectory of academic inquiry in sustainable urban regeneration.

3.2. Methods

Additionally, to enhance transparency and facilitate reproducibility, we employed VOSviewer version 1.6.19 (for network mapping and co-occurrence analysis), ensuring an objective representation of research trends, and PRISMA 2020 (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for literature screening. The selection process involved the following:

• Filtering articles based on title, abstract, and keywords relevance.
• Excluding duplicate and non-peer-reviewed sources.
• Conducting a full-text assessment to ensure thematic alignment with the research objectives.

These queries were applied to titles, abstracts, and keywords within the documents indexed in both databases. By utilizing these specific keywords, we successfully retrieved a total of 339 documents published between 1976 and 2022 after excluding duplicate entries. The primary objective of this research was to scrutinize the current state of scientific knowledge on the subject and to create a comprehensive overview of the available literature.

3.2.1. Bibliometric Analysis

Bibliometric analysis provides a structured approach to mapping the intellectual development of a research field, identifying key themes, and highlighting knowledge gaps. By tracing how aesthetics has been integrated into urban sustainability discourse over time, our paper offers insights into research trends that can serve as a foundation for future empirical validation.

The initial phase of the bibliometric analysis focuses on reviewing the existing literature from a document-centric perspective.

Figure 1 illustrates the distribution of document output across the specified time- frame. The time frame can be divided into 5-year intervals and analyzed both individually and as a whole. When taking into account the entire duration, we notice relatively limited document creation until the mid-1990s, with the exception of sporadic, modest heights in different years. As previously noted within the context of the literature review, interest in the role of aesthetics began to emerge in the mid-1990s, resulting in a consistent growth in annual document output up to the present day. From 1976 to 1980, document production was quite insignificant, with very few documents appearing during this period. In the first half of the 1980s, the trend closely mirrored the previous period, with a slight increase in 1983 and 1985. From 1986 to 1990, the trend experienced a minor shift, with a steady annual publication rate. The period from 1991 to 1996 showed a stable trend, except for the absence of documents in 1994. However, from 1996, we observed a significant change in direction, characterized by a significant peak in 1997 followed by a continuous growth in production until 2000. The trend continued to rise in the first five years of the 2000s, as well as in the subsequent years. The pattern remained consistent in the 2011–2015 period, but in 2016, there was a substantial increase in production, with a one-year doubling of the annual document output. This growth was consistent over the last five years analyzed.

The graph in Figure 1 aligns perfectly with the framework analysis conducted earlier. Since the mid-1990s, this particular strand of literature has started to gain momentum, so it is logical to assume that the production of documents on this topic began to increase with the emergence of this theme.

Another interesting perspective can be gleaned from examining the production of documents by source throughout the chosen timeframe, as illustrated in Figure 2. The most prominent sources have been identified, and the distribution among the top five sources appears to be fairly consistent, except for the journal “Urban Forestry and Urban Greening”. This source exhibited a steady increase in the quantity of documents published from 2015 to 2021. There were other noteworthy exclusions, including Landscape and Urban Planning, which experienced a distinct peak in 2018, and Urban Ecosystems, where a slight increase was observed in 2016. Lastly, the Journal of Environmental Management, which had maintained a consistent yearly production of one document per year, saw a spike in publications in 2021.

The names of the sources, especially those cited most frequently, indicate a central theme of discussion linked to the environmental aspect. This theme encompasses various aspects, including ecology, nature, and the preservation and regeneration of cultural heritage. In light of this, a graph has been created to depict the different subject areas. Figure 3 displays a pie chart illustrating all the topics within the sample. As observed, out of the entire sample, 37.6% of the documents are classified as being within the field of environmental sciences, 15.5% are connected to agricultural analysis, 14.8% are associated with social sciences, and 14.6% are categorized under engineering. These four domains together represent 82.5% of all the research areas identified in the sample. This underscores that the subject is approached from a cross-sectoral standpoint, with many of them incorporating both environmental and technical viewpoints.

The last element of document analysis concerns the countries of origin for the documents in the sample. Figure 4 illustrates this with a bar chart, showing the various countries of origin for the 339 documents. The chart emphasizes the countries that appear most frequently, with a notable majority of documents originating from the United States, representing over one-third of the total. The second most common country is the United Kingdom, representing just under 30% of the total from the United States. China and Canada claim the third and fourth positions, being the only other countries with over 20 documents. Among the remaining countries, Germany, Poland, and Australia are the only ones that exceed the threshold of 10 documents each; in contrast, over half of the countries in the chart have published fewer than 10 documents each.

These data imply that although a significant portion of document production is concentrated in the top three countries, which collectively make up more than half of the documents in the sample, the remaining production is distributed among a greater number of countries. This dispersion indicates a significant interest in the subject in various contexts around the world.

3.2.2. Analysis of Keywords

Following the initial sample overview, which focused on sources and documents, the subsequent stage of the analysis delves into the examination of keywords. The papers were obtained in CSV format and, subsequently, subjected to analysis using VOSviewer version 1.6.19. This software enables the assessment of bibliometric trends and the generation of network-based maps for publications, nations, and journals, including co-citation maps. VOSviewer proves to be a valuable instrument for performing data extraction, mapping, and categorization of articles sourced from the database. It is particularly useful for exploring the connections between various topics [32]. Among all the topics, keywords related to academic achievement are the most frequently used. VOSviewer provides three varieties of mapping visualizations in the course of bibliometric analysis: network visualization, overlay visualization, and density visualization.

The co-occurrence network of keywords provides an initial insight into the most closely related topics as determined by the documents within the sample. Figure 5 presents a graphical representation of the interconnections among authors’ keywords, revealing three primary clusters. The green cluster is related to topics concerning climate change, water management, and supply. The blue cluster revolves around environmental protection, land conservation, and urban management. In contrast, the red cluster is the one most closely aligned with the subject of interest in this chapter. It pertains to the aesthetic dimensions of urban planning and regeneration, with a significant focus on preserving ecosystems and promoting sustainable development. This cluster seems to encapsulate the heart of the most recent developments in the literature of urban regeneration, encompassing various aspects of sustainability, including environmental, social, and economic dimensions, all viewed through the lenses of urban hardware and software.

Another intriguing insight gleaned from keyword analysis involves the co-occurrence network of document keywords. This network helps identify links among documents and reveals distinct literature features within the ground under examination. Figure 6 illustrates the presence of four primary clusters, each representing a distinct literature strand. Within the green-colored cluster, the documents primarily revolve around the topic of water management and conservation, highlighting an emphasis on conserving resources in the context of addressing climate change and optimizing resource efficiency. The purple group consists of documents related to environmental management and protection, particularly in terms of preservation of soil and resource distribution. This cluster addresses topics that bridge the gap between the management of natural resources and issues of urban planning, highlighting a robust inclination toward the hardware element of environmental management.

The red knot is predominantly distinguished by documents that contain keywords such as “urban planning” and “sustainable development”, signifying a focus on dynamics related to the software aspect and the impact of hardware elements from both the green and violet clusters. The final cluster, identified as the blue cluster, contains elements most closely aligned with the subject of the present research. It emphasizes aspects of aesthetics in regeneration and urban planning. This cluster is influenced by both hardware and software components, with a particular focus on achieving a balance between environmental conservation and sustainable development, all while adhering to principles of aesthetics in terms of both external appearances and organizational characteristics.

Another aspect of keyword analysis involves examining the level of development of various themes and their density. In Figure 7, a mapping visualization of clusters is displayed, emphasizing the central topics related to key concepts. Results depicted in the drawing reveal the presence of two primary clusters that capture literature’s current interests. The first cluster revolves around cultural ecosystem services and aesthetics, which align closely with the attention to this analysis. In this cluster, organization and the provision of services are fundamental components that warrant in-depth exploration as they have the potential to be pivotal factors in urban management’s realm.

The following notable group pertains to urban planning, environmental sustainability, and resilience, all of which result from the interplay between urban management’s hardware and software components. While there are other clusters that make reference to the ground of studies, they tend to cover research topics that are more technical and less closely aligned with the core focus of our interest.

To strengthen the alignment with the earlier statements, we conducted an additional cluster analysis in bibliometrics. In this analysis, documents were grouped based on their contents and the subjects identified through their assigned keywords. This approach allows us to strike a balance between the significance of subjects within the sample and their influences on the existing literature. As depicted in Figure 8, this analysis unveiled five more clusters, each of which highlights a distinct theme and its significance in the discourse surrounding aesthetics and urban management.

Figure 8 scrutinizes the identified clusters by evaluating their level of development and literature’s significance, considering the density and centrality of each subject within the discourse on empirical methods for predicting the longevity of companies and their application areas. The X-axis measures centrality, indicating the extent of contact within a network cluster compared to other ones, thus providing insights into a theme’s importance. The Y-axis signifies density, measuring the internal robustness of a cluster network and serving as an indicator of the topic’s level of progress. Consequently, the first quadrant denotes pivotal topics, representing powerful and crucial topics that play a significant role in shaping a study field. The other quadrant contains themes that are significantly advanced but inaccessible, signifying subjects of minimal significance in the field. In the third quadrant, you will find rising or diminishing topics, characterized by weak development and peripheral relevance. The fourth quadrant encompasses fundamental and cross-cutting themes, addressing general topics that transcend various research areas within the field.

Naturally, the results align with the anticipated progression of research in this field. An intriguing observation is the absence of isolated themes, indicating a high level of interaction among diverse clusters and a notable level of density within these groupings. The only exception to this pattern is the orange cluster, which remains somewhat confined to its own limited subdomain. Other clusters exhibit adequate interaction, encompassing topics related to resource management, urban planning, environmental conservation, project management, and sustainable development (which is emerging as a noteworthy topic). Urban spaces and aesthetics occupy a central position in the study, underscoring the increasing significance of this research direction.

To validate the previous assertions, the word cloud depicted in Figure 9 illustrates the occurrence of keywords noticed through the examination of the current dataset. As indicated, the most commonly occurring keywords in the sample include “aesthetics” (and “aesthetics”), “urban planning”, and “urban area”, highlighting their significant recurrence and interconnection. Additionally, other frequently observed terms are associated with culture, ecosystems, biodiversity, and resources.

The conclusive step of the keyword analysis is dedicated to examining the temporal evolution of topic relevance, as displayed in Figure 10. Following the previous approach, we have divided the period of five years to provide a comprehensive perspective. With the exception of the initial two terms with no available data recorded, we begin to observe a subtle increase in the usage of certain keywords starting from the third term (1986–1990). This uptick is primarily related to water management and quality. For the subsequent term, from 1991 to 1995, the situation remains relatively stable. However, we see a noticeable surge in interest from 1996 to 2000, with the previously mentioned keywords gaining even more significance. Moving into 2001, there is a growing debate on new concepts, particularly green space and aesthetics. This information is consistent with the topics covered in the preceding sections, aligning with the primary attention to this analysis. The interconnection between these fundamental conceptions started to appear in academic literature at the start of the 21st century. During the span of five years spanning from 2006 to 2010, issues connected to sustainability made their way into the discourse, with keywords associated with ecosystems and a consistent uptick in mentions of aesthetics and green space. Additionally, other intriguing subjects, such as decision-making and project management, begin to gain attention. In the current state of research, it is evident that the most frequently used keywords, which have maintained a robust upward trajectory since the outset, are those related to urban planning and aesthetics, underscoring their central position in this analysis.

4. Results

Topics Evolution

The final phase of the bibliometric study involved examining trends in topics over a specific time frame. Figure 11 illustrates the frequency of keyword usage in the documents within the sample. Each word is depicted as a circle, and its placement on the chart corresponds to when it gained prominence in academic discourse, with more recent trends positioned higher. The first instance of the term “aesthetics” is associated with “landscape aesthetics”, which first appeared in 2009 and saw increased usage in 2010. This initial focus on “landscape aesthetics” primarily pertains to urban management’s hardware aspects as it relates to the landscape’s visual appeal. The notion of “environmental aesthetics” began to emerge in 2004 but did not gain significant traction until 2014. It served as a precursor to the broader notion of aesthetics. These earlier concepts have gradually evolved into more hybrid ideas, such as “ecosystem services” and “cultural ecosystem services.” These contemporary terms are now at the forefront of academic interest and are considered cross-sectoral concepts that encompass both hardware and software components of landscaping and urban management. When examining the overall trend topic analysis, it is evident that these keywords represent the most current topics that are generating the greatest academic attention. They are inextricably refer to sustainability, conservation, and urban planning.

The final aspect of the bibliometric analysis, focusing on aesthetics and urban management, involved the analysis of word trends found in the document summaries in the sample. Similar to Figure 11, Figure 12 below presents these word trends, highlighting the occurrence and central trend of each term. One noteworthy observation is the extensive usage of the keyword “aesthetics” from 2002 to nowadays, demonstrating its versatile application across numerous works and contexts. The most currently popular words relate to “perception”, closely tied to human perception. Such a shift indicates that attention is gradually moving from a sole focus on the hardware aspect to a broader consideration that encompasses people, particularly members of urban communities.

5. Discussion and Conclusions

The methodological choices in this paper were guided by the need to map the intellectual trajectory of urban aesthetics research. We employed bibliometric analysis, using VOSviewer, to conduct keyword co-occurrence mapping and network visualization. This approach allowed us to identify thematic clusters within the existing literature, highlighting key research trends and underexplored areas. The bibliometric method not only situates aesthetics within the broader discourse of urban sustainability but also serves as a foundation for future empirical validation.

The primary aim of this paper was to provide an overview of the evolving urban landscape, which is influenced by various factors operating at distinct levels. These factors include the physical elements of a city (referred to as the “hardware” component), encompassing its tangible assets and heritage, as well as the intangible aspects (termed the “software” component) that involve the integration of citizens into the community. To achieve this goal, we established a theoretical framework to evaluate the current state of affairs, explored potential novel development strategies, and conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to gauge the progress in research related to the intersection of urban management and aesthetics. The role of aesthetic principles in driving social innovation within urban spaces is increasingly being recognized. Aesthetic interventions, such as public art installations, green spaces, and human-centered architectural designs, play a crucial role in shaping the way citizens interact with their environment. These interventions create inclusive public spaces that encourage social cohesion and civic engagement, facilitating participatory governance and community-driven regeneration. Moreover, aesthetically enhanced spaces can stimulate economic development by attracting tourism, increasing local investment, and revitalizing underutilized urban areas. By embedding aesthetics into urban social innovation frameworks, policymakers and urban planners can leverage design as a tool to foster inclusivity, sustainability, and long-term urban resilience.

The paper has established a strong correlation between theoretical findings and practical applications by framing urban regeneration through the lens of organizational aesthetics. The proposed interdisciplinary model integrates aesthetic principles into sustainable urban governance, emphasizing their impact on social innovation, participatory urbanism, and community well-being. This conceptualization finds practical validation in urban regeneration projects that have successfully embedded aesthetics as a driving force for renewal. For instance, heritage preservation and the development of cultural districts illustrate how aesthetic–organizational principles enhance cultural identity while ensuring sustainability. Similarly, smart city initiatives demonstrate how the integration of digital tools with aesthetic considerations fosters engagement and connectivity while maintaining urban functionality. Another key application is in community-led urban interventions, where participatory urban design strategies enable local populations to take active roles in shaping their environments, strengthening social cohesion, and reinforcing place identity. These practical implementations are exemplified by urban regeneration projects such as the transformation of Barcelona’s Olympic Village, the revitalization of public spaces along New York’s High Line, and the HafenCity redevelopment in Hamburg. Each of these cases highlights the interplay between aesthetics and social innovation, demonstrating how thoughtfully designed urban environments not only improve the visual and sensory experience of a place but also drive economic development, attract investment, and cultivate a stronger sense of belonging among residents. The bibliometric analysis further reinforces this theoretical–practical link by identifying the increasing significance of aesthetics in urban governance. The growing body of research in this area offers policymakers and urban planners structured insights into emerging trends, equipping them with a methodological foundation to integrate aesthetics into future urban development strategies.

Based on the extensively discussed findings derived from the theoretical background and the outcomes of the bibliometric analysis, several noteworthy observations have surfaced. Firstly, it is evident that the focus of urban management has transitioned from a narrow emphasis on physical components (referred to as the “hardware”) to a more comprehensive exploration of how communities influence urban revitalization and regeneration planning. The concept of urban regeneration has advanced over the years from a mere emphasis on restyling to adopting a holistic approach to urban development. This approach encompasses environmental, social, and economic sustainability, as well as innovative elements. The identification of a “software” component aimed at enhancing social well-being represents a significant advancement in urban management theory. This paper has aimed to accurately evaluate the favorable influence of aesthetics on urban revitalization, recognizing aesthetics as an indispensable element for the social function of urban redevelopment, not merely as a practical method for enhancing the appearance and design of urban infrastructure.

The framework constructed based on the review of the literature has paved the way for future research endeavors that are linked to the development of innovative organizational structures focusing on harnessing the potential of cultural aesthetics. Aesthetics is not merely about appreciating beauty but also serves as a crucial element for organizational transformation. This framework is particularly applicable in cities undergoing cultural heritage preservation efforts, smart city transformations, and community-driven redevelopment projects. For instance, in European historical districts, the integration of aesthetics enhances cultural identity and tourism appeal. Similarly, in emerging smart cities, digital technologies can be harnessed to incorporate aesthetic principles into urban design, fostering more engaging public spaces. By embedding aesthetics within urban regeneration policies, cities can enhance not only the visual appeal but also the social and economic value of urban spaces.

Furthermore, this framework aligns with existing theories of organizational aesthetics and urban governance. Drawing from Gagliardi’s and Strati’s perspectives, the model acknowledges the role of sensory and emotional responses in shaping sustainable urban environments. It also intersects with participatory urban governance theories, highlighting the importance of stakeholder engagement in co-creating aesthetically enriched urban spaces. By integrating these theoretical perspectives, our framework provides a structured approach to embedding aesthetics within sustainable urban management.

As far as our knowledge extends and coherently with the bibliometric analysis’ outcomes, there have not been any tangible efforts to revamp urban regeneration planning by adopting a perspective of organizational aesthetics. Strategies of social innovation are increasingly drawing from the software components to put into action effective practices by incorporating citizens into urban revitalization procedures. The approaches put forth by Gagliardi and Strati regarding aesthetics in organizational contexts find practical application in the realm of urban planning and regeneration. This application recognizes the need to skillfully blend hardware, software, and mind-ware elements, drawing inspiration from the aesthetic, artistic, empathic, archaeological, and artistic methods to create aesthetically pleasing organizations. Symbolism and culture within organizational contexts are valuable and serve as prerequisites for social innovation strategies, particularly in the context of beauty within urban renovation projects. These strategies align with stakeholder and resource-based viewpoints.

Efforts to implement and integrate frameworks in the context of strategies of smart specialization and the development of smart cities are revolutionary initiatives in response to a constantly evolving reality. Within this context, the significance of human and relational capital cannot be overstated as they are vital for advancing a comprehensive innovation framework [33]. Both policymakers and public management authorities are deeply engaged in the realm of smart strategies as they identify micro and macro variables that are essential for the success of these plans [34]. The outcomes of this paper carry several implications. From a managerial perspective, systems for managing public operations are advised to incorporate components of organizational aesthetics into processes of urban regeneration. This shift goes further than the conventional bureaucratic policymaking framework, aiming to instill a culture of aesthetics among organization members [35,36]. Furthermore, citizens are encouraged to actively participate in urban regeneration and social innovation initiatives. This involvement promotes a relational Citizen Relationship Management (CiRM) system that is founded on participation and feedback. Such a system proves instrumental in refining processes and objectives.

The identification of three research clusters in the urban aesthetics literature represents a novel contribution to the field. The first cluster centers on the relationship between urban aesthetics and sustainability, emphasizing how design choices impact environmental and social well-being. The second cluster focuses on cultural and historical perspectives, exploring the role of heritage conservation in shaping aesthetic values in urban spaces. The third cluster highlights the intersection between aesthetics and digital urbanism, investigating how emerging technologies influence visual and spatial experiences in cities. These clusters illustrate the evolving landscape of urban aesthetics research, underscoring the increasing recognition of aesthetics as an integral component of sustainable urban management. The further exploration of these themes could provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners seeking to integrate aesthetic considerations into urban regeneration strategies.Inizio modulo

Understanding the evolution of research on aesthetics in urban sustainability can guide policymakers in integrating aesthetic considerations into urban governance frameworks. By aligning our findings with policy implications, we aim to provide urban planners with evidence-based insights to design more inclusive, aesthetically conscious, and environmentally sustainable cities.

6. Methodological Limitations and Future Research

This paper, however, has presented some limitations.

While our proposed framework offers a novel approach to integrating aesthetics into urban regeneration, its practical application may face challenges such as funding limitations, stakeholder resistance, and regulatory barriers that may be mitigated by policy incentives for aesthetic urban projects, enhanced public–private partnerships, and participatory governance mechanisms that engage local communities in decision-making.

Moreover, while bibliometric analysis offers a valuable macro-perspective on research developments, it does not establish causal relationships between aesthetics and sustainable urban management. To address this gap, future studies should incorporate empirical approaches such as case studies, surveys, and experimental research to assess the tangible impacts of aesthetics on urban sustainability.

Lastly, as far as the network analysis is concerned, while it provides meaningful insights into the intellectual structure of research on aesthetics in urban regeneration, we recognize its limitations in establishing conclusive relationships without statistical reinforcement and adequate validation to make the identified patterns more conclusive. Future studies could complement these findings with regression models or empirical case studies to further substantiate the role of aesthetics in sustainable urban management.

By incorporating standard bibliometric measures such as citation impact and centrality metrics, we enhance the validity of our results and ensure a more rigorous methodological approach. These measures not only provide a quantitative basis for network relationships but also strengthen the interpretability of keyword trends in the broader academic discourse. Future studies could further extend this analysis by integrating machine learning techniques for topic modeling or conducting empirical validation using case studies and survey-based methodologies. This would complement our bibliometric findings and provide a more comprehensive understanding of how aesthetics contributes to sustainable urban planning.