Arcology (architecture + ecology) is Paolo Soleri's urban design theory holding that a city should function as a single, densely interlinked, three-dimensional organism rather than a sprawling two-dimensional grid of separated single-family lots. The theory argues that densification lets structures serve multiple functions (living, working, commerce, agriculture) within one built form, shortens the distance information and people must travel, and frees the surrounding land to remain wild, reversing the environmental and social costs of suburban sprawl. It belongs to the field of urban design theory and design practices for the community by aligning built form with ecological processes (solar orientation, passive heating/cooling, water and food-cycle integration) instead of using non-renewable energy to compensate for a poorly sited plan.
Arcology (architecture + ecology) is Paolo Soleri's urban design theory holding that a city should function as a single, densely interlinked, three-dimensional organism rather than a sprawling two-di…