Dry Urbanism Solutions for Arid Futures

Climate change intensifies the challenges faced by urban areas in arid regions, necessitating the development of innovative and sustainable solutions. This research explores the concept of dry urbanism as a framework to address these challenges, focusing on the role of design and interventions in both hyper-arid regions and urban settings. The approach seeks to resolve existing issues, such as resource scarcity in cities, while also functioning as a proactive strategy for building resilience by understanding and addressing the specific needs of arid urban environments, both in the present and the future. A case study of the Master Plan for Ciudad Juárez was conducted to identify key strategies for water management, urban design, and community engagement. The findings emphasize the critical importance of equitable resource distribution, green infrastructure, and resilient urban planning in the creation of livable and sustainable cities in arid regions. Furthermore, the Polanco Cultural Corridor case study illustrates the practical application of dry urbanism principles, demonstrating the potential to transform urban spaces into resilient, people-centered environments. By integrating these strategies into urban planning, cities can enhance their adaptability to climate change, improve the quality of life, and promote sustainable development.