China's urban transformation: Patterns and processes of morphological change in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou

New urban and economic development are transforming the fundamental nature and structure of China's cities. The distinctive patterns wrought by overlaying socialist ideals on the pre-1949 city are giving way to new forms reflecting the country's dynamic economic, social and political conditions. This article provides an analysis of the patterns acid processes of change in urban form in contemporary Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, Analysis of these rapidly changing cities highlights both the regional variation in urban development in China and the emergence of common trends in development and form. The article focuses on patterns of land-use specialisation, circulation and building height, and processes of planning, urban renewal and privatisation of the real estate market.