MCP, University of Cincinnati, 2016, Design, Architecture, Art and Planning: Community Planning

The world sincerely admires for the achievements of China's modernization construction and speak highly of the outstanding contribution of China to globalization and development. However, two major problems of urbanization in China are that cities lack of unique characters and are not able to provide high quality of life for the residents. The aim of this thesis is to expose and critique those stains found in Chinese cities today. Significantly, a viable future of a city should respect her heritage and focus on the people. One way to achieve this goal is through urban design. This thesis studies the urban design principles behind Disney's success. Its urban design principles are implemented in Disney Theme Park practice to build human-scale and livable communities. Many aspects of Disney Theme Parks' design can be taken as good examples by urban designers in building cities. In the end, the thesis provides a showcase design practice based on Disney design principles in Shijingshan amusement park, Beijing, China.

Committee: Xinhao Wang Ph.D. (Committee Chair); Francis Russell M.Arch. (Committee Member) Subjects: Urban Planning