The hubs of transformation dictated by the innovation wave: Boston as a case study

Cities have become the nodes of global networks, standing at the intersection points of the flows of capital, goods, workers, businesses and travellers, making them the spots where innovation, progress and economic development occur. Design emerges as an essential feature in this process that this manuscript defines “laboratorisation of cities”, a cutting-edge urban development paradigm that emphasises cities as dynamic laboratories for innovation and experimentation. This paper then aims at exploring the spatial hubs of transformation within the knowledge economy, providing an overview of the current models of innovation spaces, before focusing on the innovation district of one of the cities that are riding the innovation wave, namely, Boston, USA. Information will be gathered from observations, exploratory interviews to key stakeholders, and on-desk data. The study has significant implications, spanning from informing global urban development strategies to impacting regional economic planning and national policies. It provides valuable insights into how design, innovation, and urban development are interconnected, potentially reshaping how cities and regions approach their growth in a knowledge-driven era. Useful lessons are drawn from the analysed case study, allowing to define precious tools for policymakers, a forward-looking perspective on the future of laboratorisation of cities and the evolving role of design, providing a roadmap for cities aiming to position themselves as global innovation hubs.