The place-identity after urban transformation in China- a case study of Nanjing

This study explores the place identity of different urban areas in Nanjing by examining the built environment. Focusing on the built environment of the Laochengnan area and Hexi area, this study investigates the different identities of Nanjingnese and new Nanjingnese. The Laochengnan is the main historical area that has a large local memory of Nanjingnese. The historical image of this area is rooted in architecture, newspapers, photos and movies which document the local culture before urban transformation. The Hexi area is a new urban space produced by the Youth Olympic Games in 2014 that has attracted new Nanjingnese to live there. By interviewing respondents of two different groups, this study analyzes how their place identities are formed through their urban daily life in built environment, and the role of time in understanding the place identity. Finally, place identity is interpreted as a dynamic relationship between built environment, social group and living experience, making the city gradually form a sense of division between non-administrative areas.