https://doi.org/10.1140/epjds/s13688-026-00626-5
Research
Citizen design science – towards generative and responsive cities
1
Department of Architecture, ETH Zurich, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
2
Complexity Science Hub Vienna, Metternichgasse 8, 1030, Vienna, Austria
a
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Received:
31
July
2025
Accepted:
31
January
2026
Published online:
12
March
2026
Abstract
Urban development faces multifaceted challenges, including climate change, mobility transitions, resource depletion, social inequality, and demographic shifts. To address these, cities must become responsive and generative, placing citizens at the center of transformation. Traditional top-down planning often fails to leverage citizen participation and overlooks their growing familiarity with digital and AI tools. This study introduces Citizen Design Science, a collaborative methodology that integrates citizen engagement with advances in data science, AI, and design science. By combining participatory design, computational instruments, geospatial analytics, simulation, and real-time data, the approach empowers both experts and non-experts to shape resilient and livable human settlements. Case examples from education, research, culture, and urban planning demonstrate how Citizen Design Science democratizes development and fosters inclusive, scientifically grounded processes. The methodology emphasizes citizen empowerment, technological integration, and collaborative governance across scales, from villages to megacities. Key challenges remain, including time-intensive engagement, digital accessibility, shared human-AI governance, data quality, and the digital divide. Overcoming these obstacles is essential for scaling impact and ensuring resilient, livable settlements.
Key words: Citizen Design Science / Citizen Design / Citizen Science / Design Science / Responsive Cities / Generative Cities / AI in Urban Planning
Handling Editor: Cesar Hidalgo
© The Author(s) 2026
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