The online V International Scientific and Practical Conference “Contemporary Challenges and Prospective Directions for Innovative Urban Development,” held on November 6–7, 2025, brought together researchers, practitioners, and municipal representatives to explore strategies for urban transformation, heritage governance, and innovation.
During the plenary session, Dr. Anastasia Malko from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Cities.Building.Culture project, delivered the presentation “Heritage Governance and Urban Renewal in France and Germany: Divergent Models, Shared Transitions,” highlighting large-scale urban renewal projects in France and Germany and their relevance for post-Soviet cities. Key examples included the renovation of the La Duchère Novième housing estate in Lyon, France, a multi-phase project initiated in 2003 under the Grand Projet de Ville framework. The project demonstrates a long-term transformation strategy, integrating green spaces, mobility improvements, commercial areas, and social inclusivity.
Quartier de la Duchère from https://retrogeographie.tumblr.com/, Atelier Pascal Gontier en association avec Alain Marguerit paysagiste et Bernard Paris, architecte, France 2, August 2020
The conference emphasized dialogue on adapting international approaches to post-Soviet contexts, where standardized urban environments require thoughtful transformation to balance modernization, heritage conservation, and environmental sustainability.
The conference also underscored the relevance of these international strategies for Odesa’s own urban challenges. In the context of post-war reconstruction and the ongoing renewal of the city’s housing and historic areas, lessons from France and Germany offer valuable insights on long-term planning, heritage governance, and sustainable development. Integrating approaches such as phased redevelopment, mixed-use urban design, and the preservation of historical and cultural assets can help guide Odesa’s transformation into a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable city, balancing modernization with the protection of its architectural and cultural heritage.
The program is available here: