Abstract for:System Dynamics Informed Spatial Design: Three Applications

System dynamics can inform the design process and the design of processes. In this way system dynamics serves design that engages transcalar spatiotemporal concerns around social ecological systems in ways that can set up the co-adaptive management of ecosystem services. This paper presents a system dynamics approach to spatial design and describes the novel application of system dynamics modeling in the spatial design process in three ways. First, as a sketch tool to clarify site system dynamics and possible design interventions that prioritize social and ecological advantages at multiple scales. Second, as a post occupancy evaluation method to illustrate community impacts of design interventions. Third, as part of pedagogy with urban design students. These applications of system dynamics modeling reinforce each other in developing systems thinking capacity in spatial designers. In light of the urgent need for mitigation and adaptation in cities, wide participation is necessary to enable rapid agile sustainable city making and remaking. System dynamic modeling methods, specifically those of Community Based System Dynamics, provide spatial designers sophisticated tools to facilitate urbanism which is co-designed and informed by dynamic feedback processes. This research aims to contribute to a methodological bridge between system dynamics and spatial design.