I am dr. arh. Horatiu-Cristian Cojan (Hori), the founder of Urban Ascension. So far I have studied, done research and completed design projects in the fields of architecture; urban design and urban regeneration; landscape architecture; and sustainable development, in three European countries (Romania, United Kingdom and the Netherlands). Urban Ascension offers all stages of design, planning and consultancy services in the fields of architecture; urban design, development and regeneration; landscape design; and participative processes. I have also developed and applied the „Co-urban development” process, based on the findings from my PhD study in Cardiff, United Kingdom and Master's study in Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
The Co-Urban concept is based on a participatory design approach, involving interested residents in the (re-) development process of a specific urban area. Various sustainable spatial solutions will be proposed, discussed, and decided upon together with the residents. Techniques used during this participative process include: group working based on certain themes; interactive three-dimensional visualisations of proposed solutions; mockups for 'hands-on' adjustments of the proposed solutions; presentations and discussions/mediation techniques aimed at reaching a consensus of solutions.
The final product is represented by architectural plans that will reflect the results of this Co-Urban process; and that will be used for the physical development of the site. As such, this approach leads to the redevelopment of urban areas through sustainable solutions discussed and decided upon together with the local community.
In 2020, I have been awarded with the distinction 'Chartered Town Planner' by the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI), and also became an affiliate member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
Contact: info@urban-ascension.com
Facebook page: @urban.ascension.2019