Near and distant futures: Path dependency vs disruption in spatial imaginaries of the future of historical cities
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
- In-Person event
- A220, Loeb Building, Carleton University
- 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6
- Contact
- Dept. of Geography and Environmental Studies, (https://carleton.ca/about/contact/)
Presenter: Valeria Lingua, Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Florence, Italy, and Scientific Director of Regional Design Laboratory.
How do cities imagine their future? This presentation explores how collective visions of the future shape urban planning and transformation. Through the distinction between “near” and “distant” futures, it highlights the importance of challenging established assumptions to foster innovative and sustainable urban development. Using the historical city of Florence, Italy, as a case study, the presentation illustrates how alternative visions can help address contemporary challenges in housing, mobility, green spaces, and everyday urban life.
Professor Valeria Lingua’s research focuses on spatial planning, urban governance, sustainable territorial development, and climate adaptation. She has coordinated and participated in numerous national and European research projects and actively collaborates with public institutions on planning policies and territorial resilience.
Event co-organized by: The Department of Geography and Environmental Studies and Costanza Conti, Scientific Attaché at the Embassy of Italy in Ottawa, as part of their Genio Vagante series.
The Geography and Environmental Studies Departmental Seminar Series is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Please send requests for accommodation to
Nika.Linseman@Carleton.ca