City Science and the Future of Urban Design with Ramon Gras
Urban scientist and Aretian co-founder Ramon Gras joins Most Podern to unpack the design principles and data insights behind high-performing cities. Drawing from global research and on-the-ground practice, Gras reveals how fractal urban form, network connectivity, and balanced density lead to healthier, more dynamic urban environments. He explains why some neighborhoods foster social interaction and economic opportunity, while others fall flat—and how cities can use tools like digital twins to guide smarter, more human-centered development. From Cold War planning to innovation districts, this conversation offers a compelling framework for shaping the future of cities.Keywordsurban design, city planning, smart cities, digital twins, urban analytics, network science, innovation districts, fractal urbanism, sustainable cities, walkable cities, data-driven planning, future of cities, mixed-use development, urban form, knowledge economyChapters00:00 Understanding Cities and Urban Performance05:41 The Role of Data in Urban Planning19:23 Ramon's Journey to City Science30:07 The Importance of Network Science49:15 Economic vs. Social Aspects of Cities01:03:32 Identifying Successful Cities01:12:45 Engaging Stakeholders for City Improvement01:22:42 Current Projects and Future OutlookLinksAretian Urban Analytics and DesignRamon GrasCity Science: Performance Follows FormAtlas of InnovationFollow Most Podern OnSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern