Real estate development an essential part of the life of all cities. It can shape patterns of stratification,impact environmental sustainability, and promote or impede quality of life. Real estate development is one of the Primary means through which the global financial system connects with the everyday experiences of most city residents. As such, the development of real estate is deeply connected to political and social life.

This seminar will consider the political and policy factors that shape the development of real estate in Western cities. In so doing it will also address social concerns, and consider the role of urban design as a factor in shaping the life of the city. Students will read theories and case studies of real estate development from US and other European cities, and bring those theories and cases to bear in an exploration of key development projects inVienna.

Students in this seminar will: develop an understanding of the political and social dimensions of urban real estatedevelopment; become knowledgable about real estate development cases in othercities; through research develop a good understanding of the factors shaping real estate development in Vienna. Through group research projects, students will develop collaborative skills as well as qualitative and quantitative research skills.

The course will feature a combination of lecture and discussion, including student-led discussion. Students will also conduct and present research on relevant case studies.

Students will be assessed on a midterm report on their research, as well as a final oral and written Report.

Students must have sufficient proficiency to read, write, and make oral presentations in English

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Mondays, 1:30 – 2:30 or by appointment (please call (01) 31336 6009 or write to elizabeth.strom@wu.ac.at)