In the last of our posts exploring the best of 2010 on This Big City we take a look at nine of the best stories that have appeared on the site in the past twelve months.

1. The Future of the Box in an Urban World

From product design, to architecture, to urban planning, the future of box-like design is strong, thanks largely to the continuing global spread of urbanisation.

2. Data and the City: Essential to Human Survival?

Technological changes have created a wealth of data surrounding human interactions within the built environment, but can this data be used for the good of humanity?

3. A Sustainable Future for Suburbia

With cities around the world growing rapidly, what design changes can be implemented to make their future development more sustainable? This article explores one idea for London’s suburban regions.

4. Dear Tower Hamlet Homes – Is My Doormat Really Causing an Obstruction?

London’s social housing organisations have an obligation to ensure their buildings are kept clean and functional for all residents, but does that go as far as banning the use of doormats?

5. Incorporating Historic Buildings Into Contemporary Developments

How can we best integrate ageing housing with more modern developments? This article presents a south London development showing how not to do it.

6. The Future of the Countryside in an Urban World

With the population of urban areas growing and the opposite happening in the countryside, what does the future look like for rural areas? Will the countryside soon exist solely to serve the needs of urban dwellers?

7. In London, Poor Reporting Overshadows Improved Cycle Outcomes

Misrepresentation in the media has presented London’s cycle superhighways as ‘less safe’ than other roads. However, a more thorough analysis of the data reveals that cyclists do, in fact, feel safer on the bright blue bike lanes.

8. The Bionic City – A Natural Blueprint for Future Cities

Can natural disasters ever be a good thing for cities? This article suggests that biology can act as an inspiration for future urban development, better preparing us for the harsh elements of nature.

9. Gaudi’s Masterpiece: Nature-Inspired Architecture

Gaudi’s nature-inspired architecture is not only unique in its beauty, but offers a logical construction alternative. This article takes a look at his work in more detail.

By Joe Peach