Urban planning has long been a topic of debate, with some arguing whether cities should prioritize beauty over functionality. While the appearance and beauty of the city play a crucial role in cultural identity, I believe that functionality is more important. This essay will argue that while beauty plays a role, it should not overshadow functionality and efficiency.
On the one hand, it’s true that beauty can enhance a sense of belonging and pride for people’s town. A well-designed city can improve the overall quality of life, providing amazing, astonishing, and pleasant places to live in. For example, cities with beautiful parks and landmarks can foster sense of community and pride. In addition, charming cities attract tourists, boosting the economy. For instance, cities like Paris, Florence, or Kyoto are well-known for their beauty and historical architecture, which have made them cultural capitals and popular tourist destinations. Moreover, such countries can improve the global status of their countries, attracting more investments and tourists.
On the other hand, prioritizing beauty over functionality can lead to certain problems. Urban cities should be designed to satisfy the needs of a growing population, ensuring that practical aspects such as transportation, healthcare, and access to essential services are accessible even for those with limited resources. Furthermore, another goal of modern and urban cities is that supporting sustainability, functional design of cities often takes into account sustainable infrastructure, energy-efficient buildings, and green spaces to reduce pollution and rest zones for locals. For example, cities like Singapore and Tokyo balance both function and beauty but are primarily known for their efficiency, infrastructure, and urban planning.
In conclusion, while beauty attracts tourists and fosters a sense of belonging and pride, there are undeniable factors for its functionality. In my view, efficiency and functionality are more crucial.