GUP3262 Urban Design

The urban design is taught to 3rd year students in the department of Geography at SABE, CST. The module is about the total visual effect of building masses, connections with people and places, creation of spaces for movements, urban amenities and public realm, and the process for improving the overall townscape. Urban design sets the framework for the physical and spatial arrangement and composition of built-forms and their three- dimensional relationship with the spaces around them and the surrounding settings for achievement of aesthetic and socio-cultural qualities. To create a high quality, sustainable built environment in the cities, due considerations should be given to urban design concepts and principles in the planning and development process.

This course will provide students with theoretical and practical techniques for understanding and interpreting urban form. Student will analyse the integrated spatial and sustainability components of the cities’ built form, drawing upon contemporary theoretical and practical frameworks connecting planning with urban design. They will incrementally build knowledge and skills through a combined approach of face to face lectures, readings, tutorial activities, and an intensive block course. In the design project, students will examine both socio-economic and physical/environmental aspects at neighborhood level. Through the application of urban design concepts, students will define and analyze the urban settlements, and formulate recommendations for strengthening the urban neighborhoods. A depth analysis of built environment will help to examine strengths and opportunities of the urban neighborhoods; and design interventions to improve the health, attractiveness and vitality at neighborhood level.