Present Streetscape Of Wangfujing Commercial Street In Beijing And Carriedo–Escolta Street In Manila

The design and growth of a city and of its city center can result in its outstanding rise, but also in its decline. The street paths chosen in this study are Wangfujing Commercial Street in Beijing City, China—the capital of the second largest economy in the world:and Carriedo-Escolta Street in Manila City, Philippiness—nce the home of a glorious commercial business district but has evolved into a megacity with obsolete artifacts. In spite of sharing a common historical significance, these two street paths presently show different streetscape characteristics and developments which represent the contrasting realities of today’s cities.The study begins with an overview of urban design theories concerning urban public spaces in order to provide for a solid background necessary to the understanding of the two street paths. The present case studies include a synthetic history together with an itemized description of the streetscape of Wangfujing Commercial Street and Carriedo-Escolta Street in terms of urban design, architectural characteristics, and pedestrian activities. Furthermore, this study leads to a comparative analysis based on the present conditions of the two street paths, and aims to provide possible solutions in their preservation and future development.In synthesis, the present study provides the reader with an understanding of the progression of historical commercial streets in city centers through the example of these two street paths; and underlines the successful streetscape characteristics and determinant changes that would strengthen and increase the value of a city, its city center, and its public spaces.