Research on the Influence of Postwar Reconstruction Planning on Urban Vitality - A Comparison Between Hiroshima and Beirut

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This research has continued to examine the influence of post-war reconstruction planning on urban vitality. In addition to Beirut and Hiroshima, this research has shed light on the reconstruction of Le Havre after The Second World War. The three case studies provide contrasting approaches of reconstruction: a neoliberal reconstruction of Beirut City Centre, citizens-led reconstruction of Hiroshima Hondori Commercial Street, and the modernist thought-driven reconstruction of Le Havre City Centre. Giving particular attention to commercial spaces, this research examined the modernist-driven reconstruction of Rue de Paris as the main commercial street in the city centre of Le Havre. Based on survey of literature and planning documents, tracing Le Havre’s development clarified the historical value of Rue de Paris which adds to its monumental value as the connection between the city hall and the port. Comparing pre-war layout of the city centre with post-war planning proposals clarifies the large spatial transformation under reconstruction. However, Rue de Paris was maintained as the main commercial street, and planning authorities have given attention to commercial spaces on both planning and architecture level by setting guidelines for shop allocation and adding a two-sides colonnade to Rue de Paris.