The Pattern Book

1
Colophon
European Postgrate Masters in Urbanism

Strategies and design for cities and territories
European Higher Education Consortium in Urbanism
Faculty of Architecture , Department of Urbanism
Delft University of Technology
Julianalaan 134
01West800
The Netherlands
Tel. +31 1527 81298
AR9210
The Sustainable City - Theories on Urban Design
Students:
Olga Balaoura (Greece), MArch (o.balaoura@gmail.com)
Claudiu Forgaci (Romania), MArch (claudiuforgaci@gmail.com)
Jesus M. Garate (Spain), MArch (jge81@hotmail.com)
Lenin Garca (Mexico), MArch (leninspace@gmail.com)
Meng Di Guo (China), MArch (mengdi.guo1988@gmail.com)
Carlos Rafael Salinas Gonzlez, MArch (crsg1@hotmail.com)
Monique Gorisse (Netherlands), MArch (moniquegorisse@hotmail.com)
Course instructor:
Machiel van Dorst, Dr. (M.J.vanDorst@tudelft.nl)
Contents
Introduction
Pattern field
Patterns
10
Reflections 220
Introduction
Patterns are concise. There are two reasons for

the reduced length of a pattern. On one hand, it
forces us to record the most relevant information.
On the other, it is important not to spend too much
time on it. It is only a tool, not a product. The time
spent on it should feel as the part of the process not
an additional struggle to collect information.
Patterns are multifaceted. Each pattern is
expressed visually, conceptually, theoretically,
and practically. The title, together with the image,
must be sharp, identify the pattern and makes us
remember it. The hypothesis tells the whole story
in a very compact way. The theoretical backup
provides objective argument and credibility to it.
Finally, the practical implications are meant to
outline the practical consequences of designing
with the hypothesis.
When designing, we often build up a complicated

process. Still, we are the ones who make it
complicated, by our confused observation and
obsessive chase for solutions. Here I intentionally
used the word complicated instead of complex. The
design process, from assignment, through analysis,
and to outcome and reflection, is a complex
story. The field of study even more complex.
However the process can be reasonably simple, or
overcomplicated, depending on ones approach to it.
We become more and more aware of this complexity,
of the impossibility to have a calculated, precise
overview. Most of us regard it as chaotic, however
exactly this characteristic makes it interesting,
intriguing, creative, and surprising. The method of
working with patterns experienced in our course
is eye-opening to any designer who is brave (and
naive) enough to try to find precise solutions to
complex issues. Maybe not only the tool itself, but
the position taken towards complexity is the most
important here.
A large quantity of information gets collected
during the design process. We try to organize it
into a coherent whole but we soon realize that it
is impossible to control it, that theres no absolute
whole. Do we have enough? Is it relevant what
we have so far? What is missing? Is this the right
track? These are some of the questions that
arise as a reaction to such large quantities. The
patterns deal with these uncertainties by simply
not claiming to be rigorously organized and finished.
The information is added to the designers toolbox
in a random and incremental manner, thus leading
to a field of possibilities, rather than a precise end
product. In this sense, the patterns have some
specific qualities that make them so suitable to deal
with complex questions:
Patterns are interconnected. The pattern field

is the overview of the collection. Based on a twodimensional (or more?) criteria, the patterns are
arranged into a field and connected to each other. It
shouldnt be done after the patterns are all written,
but during the process. Patterns may be rearranged,
new patterns might appear, others might merge or
be split. Therefore the pattern field is dynamic. It is
part of a recursive process.
Patterns are subjective. Just as the designer
who writes the patterns will record a different set
of ideas, the designers who follow them will each
chose a different path within the pattern field. This
is the result of an apparently random process and it
can only be explained by referring to the assumed
subjectivity of the method.
Patterns are optimistic. We make them
prospective in a positive way, rather than pointing out
negative aspects. Of course, we discover numerous
problems, but in a pattern we try to explore the way
that these problems can be addressed in a positive
way.
Patterns are everywhere. How do we come up
with patrons? Some might record critical issues of
their design; some might have a hunch; some will
start by reading and spotting relevant theoretical
issues; some might just look around and base their
hypothesis on what they see. It doesnt matter if
they are visual, theoretical, practical, intuitive, or
circumstantial. Regardless of their source, patterns
are equally relevant.
Abstract
Context
Paradoxes
Cause and effect?
022
Mixed use
027
Coincidences
Decline of diversity
021
Identity and
regeneration
Dimension of
sprawl
High density and

sustainability
076
City as part of
nature
028
Shapes of the river
023
Water pressure
019
Large scale infrastructure
Infrastructure node
as an economic
attractor
032
Green networks greenways

Public transport for
the Edge City
053
067
Pedestrians and
cyclists in the cit
Bike sharing
program
Sedimentation in
the floodplain
030
09
Water mo
Train station
062
The
101
Sedimentation
018
075
077
The city crossed by

a river
Aband
ings
Historic building
Historical urban
context
041
The water city
070
024
Timescapes
039
Cultural herit
monuments
063 City centre
Flood-proof infrastructure
034
Brandscapes
068
044
Kids and elders in

big cities
Respe
folklo
Infrastructure as
carrier of culture
Residual city
054
Dikes are not s
065
061
Measuring sprawl
029
038
Distribution of land
use
Tempos in the city
040
The resilient delta
Kate-Moss land
055
Urban settlements
in meander rivers
Public sp
020
Pilot projects
064
058
Inside and outside

the dikes
079
072
Private landscape
resource
Add program t
highway
066
Trace of former
infrastructure
Native plants
garden
002
069
Purifying wetlands
004
Multifu
water
Soft interventions
for nature areas
009
Water detention
Concrete
007
St
Detail
paces
078
safe
Adaptive public
space
Human scale
017
086
Urban palimpsest
ect the local

ore
Edges
016
094
096
doned build-
025
Districts
cluster
084
098
93
obility
Community
gardens
033
to the
057
The slope
104
026
088
Trees as comfort
provider
071
Pocket parks
046
Free WiFi in parks
100
Guerrilla gardening
051
103
Swimming
105
Waterside public
spaces
008
Height/width ratio
092
Transparency of
the street facade
074
003
059
Materiality
082
Natural lighting
081
The promenade
049
Sunny and shaded
Urban porticos
011
The passage
Wide sidewalks
Vibrant water
places
005
073
treet markets
035
089
Semi-flowing space
Shoreline restoration
Art in public space
Green roofs
Trees in the city
102
090
unctional
defense
050
012
Shared spaces
Farming in the city
010
037
097
048
045
Color in public
space
The public rooftop
Vertical references
The chamfered
corner
The invaders
043
085
Landmarks
099
056
ty
Edges of the city
Paths

all
Sun instincts
014
Nodes
095
015
083
Traffic calming
Harborscape
091
Detailing
042
The Waterfront
tage
The single factor
001
036
052
006
Urban furniture
013
031
Building entrances
080
The historic centre of Split, Croatia.
References
Ruskin, J. (1961) The Seven Lamps of Architecture, New York: Noonday.
Choay, F. (1970) Lallgorie du patrimoine, Paris: Seuil.
Longstreth, R. (2008) ed. Cultural Landscapes. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.
10
001
Urban palimpsest
...It is well to have, not only what men

have thought and felt, but what their
hands have handled, and their strenght
wrought, and their eyes beheld, all the
days of their life.
Ruskin, J. (1961: 169)
Hypothesis
The experience of an urban space could be enriched

showing the different layers of the history of the place.
Theoretical backup
Transformation and re-use of spaces has been a
constant throughout human history. Cities have
been built upon natural landscapes and then upon
previous cities. Each period of time in a place
follows specific logics of the use of space and its
construction techniques. These logics leave a mark
that could remain in later periods or be erased by new
construction processes. When elements of different
times manage to survive the urban space becomes a
palimpsest, a spatial poem of time built by several
authors that together express the history of a city in
a touching way. Some dramatic examples are places
like the Traians Forum in Rome, Tlatelolco Square in
Mexico City or the Historic Centre of Split in Croatia.
Practical implications
When designing an urban space one should be
aware of the different historic layers that place
has. The knowledge of a sites history could become
a relevant fact that trigger creativity in a design
besides providing it with a deep connection with its
context. Moreover, being able to highlight certain
archaeological elements that could be found in the
site and linking them visually or spatially with other
features or functions could be part a urban spatial
storytelling.
CRSG
See also
Identity and regeneration; Cultural heritage monuments; Historic building; Harborscape; Landmarks;
Trace of former infrastructure, Urban porticoes;
The Passage.
11
A garden designed with native flowers
References
Diekelmann, J., Schuster, R. (1982) Natural Landscaping. New York: McGraw-Hill.
Burghardt, K.T., Tallamy, D.W., and Gregory Shriver, W. (2009)Impact of Native Plants on Bird and Butterfly
Biodiversity in Suburban Landscapes. Conservation Biology, 23: 219224. [online] Available at: <http://
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2008.01076.x/full> [Accessed 11 May 2011]
12
002
Native plants garden
Natures vegetation forms a fragile

system. Given the right conditions, it can
perpetuate itself perhaps indefinitely
without managment. But deprived of
its accustomed setting and associates
it may not continue despite our
assistance. Diekelmann, J. and Robert
Schuster (1982: vii)
Hypothesis
Using native species of plants and trees in landscape and

urban design pays off in ecological and in economic terms.
Theoretical backup
Different scales of ecological problems have been
caused in different parts of the world with the
introduction of non-native species that far from
their natural predators have spread uncontrolled in
different landscapes jeopardizing its enviromental
equilibrium. On the other hand, each specific context
has particular weather conditions that could make
for instance very expensive to maintain a garden with
flowers and plants with high water requirements
in a dry location. Native species on the other hand,
are adapted to the specific conditions of a site
through millenia of adaptitive processess. The use
of autoctonous plants open new opportunities for
creating attractive and resilient landscape designs
adapted to the weather conditions. Moreover, these
plants are related with the development of local
fauna as presented by Burghardt, K. T., Tallamy, D.
W. and Gregory Shriver, W. (2009)., so reintroducing
these native species in urban areas could help to reestablish natural links and biodiversity now lost in
some urban areas.
When designing a landscape intervention in a site,
a careful research about the native species of the
area should be conducted in order to find out which
species could be used to generate a plant pallette
that meets the different design requirements
needed in the place.
In addition to the latest, and according to
Diekelmann, J. and Schuster, R. (1982) it is also
important to observe how these plants grow up in
nature and the kind of plant communities they form
with other species giving attention to the specific
conditions of humidity, water irrigation, drainage,
sun exposition, soil composition, among others, in
which we commonly found these plants in nature,
because that will give us a hint on how can we
arrange in an appropriate way the selected native
plants and which kind of specific enviroments could
be created.
CRSG
See also
Trees as comfort providers; The Promenade; Wide
sidewalks; Shoreline restoration; Pocket parks;
Green Networks-Green ways; Guerrillas gardening;
Community gardens; Waterside public spaces.
13
A sidewalk in Hoboken, New Jersey.
References
Gehl, J. (2010) Cities for people. Washington, D.C. : Island Press.
Jacobs, J. (1961) The Death and Life of Great American cities. New York: Random House. (Reprint in 1992,
New York: Vintage books).
Loukaitou-Sideris, A., Ehrenfeucht, R. (2009) Sidewalks. Conflict and negotiation over Public Space. Cambridge,
Massachusetts: The MIT Press.
14
003
Wide sidewalks
Streets and their sidewalks, the main

public places of a city, are its most vital
organs.
To keep the city safe is a fundamental
task of a citys streets and its
sidewalks.
Jacobs, J.(1961: )
Hypothesis
Wide sidewalks are more comfortable and allow a wider

number of urban activities to happen.
Theoretical backup
Sidewalks represent fundamental elements of the
public space that let people walk through the street
in a safe way by separating them from cars or other
types of vehicles. Sidewalks are also spaces for social
interaction and encounters between citizens that in
addition could provide room for gardens and trees.
Wide sidewalks could also give the opportunities
now or in the future to incoporate more functions or
elements that together could enhance the way we
experience a city. Jacobs (1961: 36-37) suggested
that in order to make streets and its sidewalks safe
it is necessary a substantial quantity of stores and
other public places sprinkled along the sidewalks
of a district. In that sense having wider sidewalks
and making them more comfortable promotes
people to walk on them and opens the possibility for
the development of other activities such as retail
that require a certain pedestrian customer flow
to thrive. The work of danish firm Gehl Architects
offers some remarkable urban interventions around
the world that included the widening of sidewalks
and improving the walkability of certain areas of the
cities where the firms intervened. Some examples
of the firm projects include the renovation of
Time Square in New York City and the creation of
a network of pedestrian streets in Copenhague.
(Gehl: 2010)
Sidewalks in urban enviroments should have a
minimum that allow the flow of people and provide
enough space for trees and gardening.
In cases when the a current street is too narrow to
allow a sidewalk, the traffic lanes should reduced or
the street should be closed to car circulation in order
to guarantee the safety of the pedestrians. Besides
the implementation of comfortable sidewalks, in
specific locations of cities and towns and even in the
suburbs, the law should allow the opening of shop
and small offices in order to foster a more mixed
use enviroment.
CRSG
See also
Urban furniture; The Promenade; Height-Width ratio; Semi-flowing space; Waterfront; Paths; Shared
spaces; Infrastructure as an economic attractor;
Native plants garden; Chamfered corners; Mix of
land use; Transparency.
15
Wetlands for water treatment in Beijings Olympic Park
References
Hammer, D.A., Bastian, R.K. (1989) Wetlands Ecosystems: Nature Water Purifiers? In: Hammer, D.A., ed. 1991.
Constructed wetlands for Wastewater Treatment. Chelsea, Michigan: Lewis Publishers.
United States Enviromental Protection Agency. (1993) Constructed wetlands for Wastewater treatment and
wildlife habitat. 17 case studies. [pdf] Available at: < http://water.epa.gov/type/wetlands/upload/2004_10_25_
wetlands_ConstructedWetlands-Complete.pdf > [Accessed 11 May 2011]
Kongjian, H. (n.d.) Shanghai Houtan Park - Landscape as a Living System. Architype Review. [online] Available
at: < http://architypereview.com/20-landscape-architecture-/projects/598-shanghai-houtan-park-landscapeas-a-living-sy/description> [Accessed 11 May 2011]
16
004
Purifying wetlands
Hypothesis
Natural processes can be used to filter water in order to

improve its quality.
Theoretical backup
During the last decades alternative ways to improve
water quality using natural processes have been
experimented in several locations. One of them is
the ussage of wetlands in order to filter water and
catching suspended particles in it. Wetlands were
described by Hammer, D.A., Bastian, R.K. (1989:
11) as transition zones between terrestrial and
aquatic enviroments (that) benefit from nutrient,
energy, plant, and animal inputs from neighboring
systems. In addition to the biological diversity
these ecosystems have, wetlands are also effective
elements that improve the water quality through
diverse natural processes, because of that, their
natural functioning has inspired the creation of
constructed wetlands for cleaning wastewater.
The United States Enviromental Protection Agency
(1993) published a work in which it presents the
performance of 17 artificial wetlands case studies
in the United States. Nowadays, this technique is
being applied in different places. One interesting
example that integrates water treatment using
artificial wetlands with recreational facilities is
the Houtan Park in Shanghai. Located in a former
brownfield area, this park uses a series of pounds
with wetlands in order to filter polluted water
(Kongjian: n.d.)
In areas with water pollution problems an
integrated design approach could take advantage
of constructed wetlands in order to improve water
quality in waterbodies as part of the landscape
design of the area.
Depending on the type of pollutants present at the
specific location the surroundings of the constructed
waterlands could be restricted or on the opposite, if
the characteristics of the water being purified there
allow it, it can also become part of recreational
enviroments with promenades or bridges crossing
them.
CRSG
See also
Native plants garden; Shoreline restoration; Green
network-greenways; The resilient delta; City as part
of nature; Urban settlements in meander rivers.
17
Public swimming pool in the port of Copenhague, Denmark.
References
Beatley, T. (2010) Biophilic Cities: Integrating Nature into Urban Design and Planning. Washington: Island
Press.
18
005
Swimming
Hypothesis
When water is clean in a city river or harbour, a wide range

of new recreational possibilities can emerge.
Theoretical backup
Public concern among population about the
dangerous effects of pollution on humans have
triggered several actions devoted to improve the
enviromental conditions in the waterbodies next
to the cities. One of the best examples is the city
of Copenhague, where the water pollution in its
harbor is so low, that now it is possible to swim in
it. Taking advantage of that, the government of that
city has opened a number of public swimming pools
in the harbor, that allow for new opportunities for
sport and recreation (Beatley: 2011) and that have
become recognizable icons of the city.
These public open-air swimming pools in addition to
the health benefits they provide for the practising
of physical activities also represent a new type
of public space where the social fabric of the city
could be reinforced.
A big effort should be realized in order to improve by
different means the water quality in canals, rivers,
lagoons and harbour in the cities. Altough, these
could involve important financial investments, the
pay off could be important as well with all the
possibilities for recreation and diversity of uses
of public space this could open. In clean water
conditions water instead of being a barrier to public
space becomes also part of a useful and functional
public space for recreation in direct contact with
humans.
In addition, seasonal public swimming pools could
be installed in public spaces such as squares, water
side public spaces and parks.
CRSG
See also
Waterside public spaces; Urban furniture; Urban
settlements in meander rivers; The Promenade; The
Waterfront; The Water City; Pilot project; Purifying
wetlands.
19
Santo Domingo Square in Oaxaca, Mexico.
References
Palang, H., Soovli, H., Printsmann A. (2007) Seasonal landscapes. [online] Available at: < http://www.
springerlink.com/content/978-1-4020-4982-8/#section=319887&page=1&locus=0> [Accessed 04 June
2011]
20
006
Sunny and shaded
Hypothesis
An urban space should have diversity of enviroments, and

it should be addaptable to seasonal changes.
Theoretical backup
The uses of public space differ widely according to
the weather conditions and culture of place. While in
places where cold and dark winters are common and
in which people would like to be exposed to the sun
during the few moments it shines, on the contrary
in hot areas where excesive sun during noon could
be annoying, people would prefer to remain under
the fresh shadow of a tree. Responding to that, the
design of public spaces needs to be adapted to the
conditions and uses of a site and should provide
a variety of atmospheres for changing weather
conditions offering different types of spaces that
could be used throughout the year. A responsive
public space design should take advantage of the
climatic conditions variations in a site as part of its
inherent character and should flexible enough to
function under different weather conditions.
When designing a city intervention one should
observe how people use the public space in different
seasons of the year for understanding the changing
dynamic of the site and the different elements
that each of the activities need along the year. In
addition to that is also important to observe how
the the nature present in the place change, such as
the time when some trees bloom or certain birds
appear. In that sense the designer can propose a
set of spaces or characteristics in the design that
could be used in different ways according to the
time of year and that would be enriched by the local
seasonal changes.
A good public space design should bring opportunities
to the users to select different atmospheres to stay
in. This can be achieved creating open areas were
people could enjoy the sun but also creating shaded
places with trees or pergolas or even covered areas
for the wet days.
CRSG
See also
Native plants garden;The Promenade; Trees as comfort providers; Height-width ratio; Pocket parks; Native plants garden; Waterside public spaces: Urban
porticoes; The Passage.
21
Integration of bioswales in a landscape design
References
Beatley, T. (2010) Biophilic Cities: Integrating Nature into Urban Design and Planning. Washington, D.C. : Island
Press.
22
007
Water detention
Hypothesis
Implementing landscaping strategies like bioswales and

rain gardens could be an efficient way to deal with storm
water and the same time generate new landscape designs.
Theoretical backup
Spreading urbanization processess have increased
the amount of paved areas. In paved areas the
rain flows quickly increasing the risk of overload
in the sewage system. An alternative to avoid
this kind of overloading problems is to slow the
speed in which the water flows by filtering and
retaining it temporarily reducing the pressure on
the sewerage system. Efficient and ecological
ways of doing so include the construction of
bioswales and rain gardens that allow the growth
of different species of plants and the same time act
as porous surfaces that filter and retard the flow
of water offering besides different possibilities for
a diversify landscape design. Examples of cities that
are currently implementing this type of elements
include Seattle, Portland and Chicago as presented
by Beatley (2011: 99-100).
Every open area should include at least a minimum
percentage of rain gardens or bioswales as part of
its design.
The calculation of the area needed should be carried
out taking into account the local conditions of the
site, the space availabilty and the possible uses that
could happen in that place.
CRSG
See also
Native plants garden; City as part of nature; Water
pressure; The resilient delta; Pocket parks; Green
networks-greenways; Community gardens; The
slope
23
Coastal promenade in Zadar, Croatia.
References
A+T. (2010). Strategy Public. A+T Independent Magazine of Architecture and Technology. 35-36. Spring-Fall.
Publisher A+T ediciones.
24
008
Waterside public spaces
Hypothesis
Facilitating access to water elements in a city could create

valuable public spaces.
Theoretical backup
Spaces located in front of waterbodies benefit
from the views they offer, the sounds of water, its
reflections and the breeze. Humans simply love
to walk close of water. In many cities and towns
around the world have been constructed special
promenades facing the sea, a lagoon or a river. These
spaces are used for a wide range activities that
include sports like jogging or bicycling, or calmer
activities like walking or just sitting and chating.
These spaces offer opportunities for social mixture
and interaction since them are attractive for young
people and elders as well. Successful examples
of these waterfront spaces include the seaside
promenades of several cities like Havana, Guayaquil,
Zadar, Hamburg or Copenhague among others.
Recent interventions for improving the public space
conditions next to water include projects like the
Rhone River Banks in Lyon, France and the Poniente
Beach Promenade in Benidorm, Spain. (Strategy
public: 2010)
Spaces next to rivers, lagoons or the sea should be
designed in a way they could be accessible for the
citizens in a comfortable way, eliminating barriers
such as car traffic and include in its design different
types of urban furniture that allow people to seat or
to practice different activities.
These kind of public spaces also need to deal with
some of the challenges water poses, such as flood
prevention or tidal control, in that sense, a design
approach in these locations needs to take advantage
of water defense elements an incorporating them
as part of an overall strategy.
CRSG
See also
Water mobility; Urban settlements in meander
rivers; The Promenade; Adaptive public spaces;
Private landscape resource; Multifunctional water
defense; The Waterfront; City Crossed by a river;
Edges; Urban settlements in meander rivers; Urban
furniture; Swimming; Inside and outside the dikes.
25
People riding bikes in the Hooge Veluwe National Park, The Netherlands
References
Waugh, F. (1935) Landscape conservation. Washington, D.C.: National Park Service.
Stepenoff, B. (2008)Wild Lands and Wonders. Preserving Nature and Culture in National Parks. In: Longstreth,
R. ed. 2008. Cultural Landscapes. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.
Melnick, R.Z. (2008) Are We There Yet? Travels and Tribulations in the Cultural Landscape. In: Longstreth, R.
ed. 2008. Cultural Landscapes. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.
Flint McClelland, L. (1998) Building the National Parks: Historic Landscape Design and Construction. Baltimore:
Johns Hopkins University Press.
26
009
Soft interventions
for nature areas
Artificial structures in wild park lands

should be made as incospicuous as
possible...(Frank Albert Waugh: 1935
cited by Stepenoff, B.: 2008)
Hypothesis
Natural areas can be used by humans in a way its activities

do not harm the integrity and regenerative processes of
the place.
Theoretical backup
The first natural parks were created in the XIXth
century in North America, since then, the tendency
to protect certain areas because of its natural or
aesthetic values has extended around the world. In
some countries natural areas are suffering strong
pressure from urbanization or agriculture practices
that jeopardize its future. In natural areas close
to cities the risk of development is high but there
also important opportunities to sustain and safe
those areas. One of them is sustainable tourism
and recreation. These activities get people closer
to natural areas helping to establish functional
and emotional links with the enviroment as well
as constituting places where family and friendship
links could be strenghten in contact with nature
as pointed out by Melnick (2008). With more people
enjoying and using these areas the risk that these
places could be urbanized decreases because people
themselves will oppose to changes in land uses.
Nevertheless, in order to make people get to these
places, low impact infrastructure should be built
together with some facilities that make the people
use with comfort and safety those places, always
keeping on mind that man himself is a visitor who
does not remain as said by Flint McClelland, L.(
1998: 474-475) cited by Stepenoff (2008).
When designing interventions for faciliting the use
of natural parks by visitors we should define areas
for strict conservation with no human intervention,
areas for recreation with low impact as well as as
networks of different types of soft paths that allow
visitors to get inside the area.
The design of those elements and networks should
be planned in a careful way taking into account
the most sensitive areas for protection and the
different flows existing in the site avoiding any kind
of feature that could represent an obstacle for the
functioning of the natural ecosystem.
In these interventions one should use natural
materials available in the place trying to avoid as
much as possible the use of heavy machinery and
finding the way to integrate the design with its
surroundings in a harmonious way.
CRSG
See also
Shoreline restoration; City as a part of nature;
Resilient delta; Private landscape resource; green
network-greenways.
27
Spaces underneath a highway in Koog aan de Zaan, The Netherlands.
References
Borden, I. (2009) Stimulating the senses in the public realm. In: Archfarm: non periodical fascicles on
architecture. [online] Available http://www.archfarm.org/fasciculos/Archfarm-12-screen.pdf
Architonic. (N.d.) A8ernA. [online] Available
architects/5100103> [Accessed 11 May 2011]
at:
<http://www.architonic.com/aisht/a8erna-nl-
Sangochian, Z. (2012) Bajopuentes. Arquine / Blog Ciudad. [online] Available at: < http://arquine.com/
bajopuentes> [Accessed 11 May 2011]

28
010
Add program to the highway
Hypothesis
Infrastructure should be porous and include functions as

part of its program.
Theoretical backup
Infrastructure elements such as highways or train
tracks comunicate far distances in a large scale but
usually have a disconnective role in the small scale
of cities and neighbourhoods. Infrastructure is often
described like an edge in an urban territory. Some
recent examples show how infrastructure leftover
spaces could be used to accomodate different
urban functions. In Koog aan de Zaan, under the A8
highway, functions like a supermarket, shops and
skatting facilities were introduced together with the
improvement of the aesthetic of the spaces under the
highway (Architonic: n.d). Other examples include
Savignyplatz in Berlin where under active railtracks
have opened several shops that are fully integrated
to the surrounding area. Moreover, the goverment of
Mexico City has launched an ambitious programm
to redesign 22 places under the inner highway ring
of the city including the creating of recreational
facilities, shops and public spaces (Sangochian:
2012). Other possible uses of these places include
landscape experiments or art performances or
installations like the Carrascoplein Shadow Park in
the outskirts of Amsterdam (Borden: 2009).
New or existent infrastructure should include
diverse functions and types of public spaces
responding to its surroundings. There is a wide
range of uses and programs that could be included
from retail and offices to public spaces. For defining
which program will be included, it is necessary to
carry out some analyses of the needs and potential
of the areas close to the intervention in order to
identify the most suitable uses and characteristics
that should be included.
On the other hand, infrastructure should be highly
porous in order to reduce its barrier effect as much
as possible. For that its necessary to avoid as much
as possible walls and leave open walkways that
allow the crossing of these spaces.
LG + CRSG
See also
Street market; Large scale infrastructure; Identity
and regeneration; Infrastructure as a carrier of
culture; Edge; Shared spaces; Urban furniture; Pilot
project; Mixed land use.
29
A covered walkway in Bologna, Italy.
References
Schmidt, O. (1987) The Eclipse of Architecture in the Developed Building Law. Re: Arcade. Daidalos. Architektur
Kunst Kultur, Porticoes Arcades Arbours, 24, pp. 107-112.
Schmalscheidt, H. (1987) The Arcade Evolution of uses. Daidalos. Architektur Kunst Kultur, Porticoes
Arcades Arbours, 24, pp. 24-36.
UNESCO World Heritage Center. (2012) Le Havre, the city rebuilt by Auguste Perret. [online] Available at: <
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1181> [Accessed 29 May 2011]
30
011
Urban porticoes
Hypothesis
Pedestrian flows and pedestrian comfort could be

mantained even under bad weather conditions with the use
of porticoes.
Theoretical backup
Porticoes have been used in several countries and
cultures througout history. From the greek temples
to the mayan palaces. Porticoes are covered spaces
that serve as transitions between open and enclosed
spaces. Porticoes have also been widespread used
in urban enviroments in very diverse geographies
and diferent climate conditions. In Bologna, Havana
or Tlacotalpan they have been used to provide fresh
covered spaces for pedestrians during very sunny or
rainy seasons, while in Bern or in Prague, porticoes
are useful during wet seasons or snowy winters
to protect pedestrians and facilitate commerce
even in adverse climate conditions. One remarkable
example of an urban portico is Reina street in
Havana, an avenue whose sidewalks are completelly
protected by porticos along eight blocks that have
plenty of commerces and urban activities. A XXth
century example of urban porticoes could be found
in the french city of Le Havre, where Auguste Perret
carried out a plan for the reconstruction of the city
centre after World War II. The reconstruction
scheme included the introduction of covered
walkways along main streets and urban spaces.
The quality of this urban reconstruction ensamble
motivated the inclusion of this area in the list of the
World Heritage Centre of the UNESCO.
Porticoes and covered walkways should be created
between the exterior and exterior of buildings in
specific avenues or areas of the city that present a
high amount of pedestrian flows. The use of these
elements could enrich in the urban experience
in those places as well as keep the pedestrians
walking in bad weather conditions. The creation of
these porticoes also allow temporary uses of the
spaces such as terraces or temporary expansion of
the display space of shops that could provide local
government with taxes for letting those activities.
CRSG
See also
Height-width ratio; Wide sidewalks; Semi-flowing
space; Transparency; Cultural heritage monuments;
Landmarks.
31
The Eiffel Tower, a relevant vertical reference in Paris, France.
References
Lynch, K. 1960. The image of the city. Cambridge Massachusetts and London: The MIT Press.
32
012
Vertical references
Hypothesis
Vertical references could be relevant wayfinding objects in

the urban space.
Theoretical backup
A common way in which citizens used to find their
way in the past in the cities was looking at high
elements such as belfries. Belfries of different
temples have always distinctive shapes and
features, so people could find their way identifying
certain characteristic aspects of them. Nowadays
the repertoire of these vertical landmarks includes
also antennas and skyscraspers. One example
of how an skyscrasper could work as a vertical
reference is Het Strijkijzer a tower next to Holland
Spoor Station in The Hague, a landmark that can be
used as a reference when trying to find the way to
that train station.
In some geographic contexts the presence of hills
and mountains is also a relevant way in which
people could identify their location. To facilitate
these phenomena to happen, vertical referential
elements should be high enough and stand out from
their context. On the other hand, the higher the
overall construction height is, the more difficult it
could be to identify a vertical guiding element.
When designing an architectural or urbanistic
intervention one should be careful to analyze the
impact it is going to have in relation with possible
blockages to existing relevant urban elements such
as bell towers or other landmarks.
One could take advantage of these existing
landmarks to open new views to them or new
referential elements could be built, if that is the
case they should play a relevant role in the design.
Different axis and views to this new landmark
should be emphasized.
In other cases, we can make use of new tall
buildings or elements to emphasize relevant places
or locations in a new urban development.
CRSG
See also
Landmarks; Timescapes.
33
A passage in Stockholm, Sweden.
References
Sitte, C. (1889) City planning according to artistic principles. Translated from German by Collins G.R. and
Crasemann Collins C., 1965. New York: Random House.
Geist, J.F. (1982) Le Passage. Un type architectural du XIXe sicle. Translated from German by Brausch, M.
Brussels and Liege: Pierre Mardaga.
Frederick, M. (2007) 101 Things I Learned in Architecture School. Cambridge, Massachusetts: MIT Press.
34
013
The Passage
Hypothesis
Passages introduce diversity of atmospheres and open

new opportunities for activities at the interior of the urban
blocks.
Theoretical backup
A passage is a covered or semi-covered space that
articulates the open public space of a street with
another public or semi-public space at the interior
of an urban block. Passages can be found in several
ancient towns and cities. This type of spaces
frequently provide a sense of surprise and enrich
the experience of urban space with the different
light contrasts they produce: the bright street,
semi-dark covered space and again the bright light
of a courtyard. This has relation with an aspect that
has been mentioned by some authors like Frederick
(2007) who stated that the way in which we
perceive a space is influenced in the way we arrive
in it. On the other hand, passages, which generally
have occupied space on its top, help also to create a
sense of enclosed entity, a aesthetic virtue described
by Sitte (1889). Passages also help to develop
activities at the interior of the blocks where new
commercial spaces could be open taking advantage
of the beauty of patios specially in crowded areas of
the city. One example of this is the Hackesche Hfe
in Berlin, where a series of patios with a diversity of
retail are interconnected by passages. In Dordrecht
an interesting perception is created by passages
leading to the Hof in the historic center of the city.
When designing an urban intervention one can
enhace the spatial experience creating enclosed
spaces connected by passages. This passages could
be helpful for adding life to the interior courtyards
of the urban blocks or buildings making it possible to
convert those spaces into active and enjoyable sites
also for visitors.
The dimension of a passage could be variable: from
an intimate scale of just one or two meter wide to
a a monumental one, several meter wide, like those
we can find for instance in places like the Hofburg
Palace in Wien or the one in Gertrudenkirchhof,
Hamburg.
CRSG
See also
Semi-flowing space; Paths; Historic building; Trace
of former infrastructure; Urban palimpsest.
35
Traffic calming in Johnson City, Tennessee , USA.
References
County Surveyors Society. (1994) Traffic calming in practice. Landor Publishing: London.
Engwicht, D. (1993) Reclaiming our cities and towns. Better living with less traffic. Philadelphia, PA. Gabriola
Island, BC : New Society Publishers.
Ewing, R., Brown, S.J. (2009) U.S. Traffic calming manual. Chicago: The American Planning Association and
ASCE Press.
36
014
Traffic calming
Hypothesis
If the speed of cars is reduced inside neighborhoods, the

safety of the pedestrians will increase.
Theoretical backup
Cars are one the main hazards that pedestrians face
in a city. In addition, as pointed out by Engwicht, D.
(1993: 44) there is a relation between the speed
and the space cars need, the higher the speed, the
wider the streets and highways should be in order to
provide buffer areas of security for the cars to move
an maneuver. One way in which the risk produced by
cars in urban areas could be reduced, is to implement
traffic calming policies. According to the U.S. Traffic
Manual (2009: 2) citing Traffic Calming: State of the
Practice Report, traffic calming involves changes in
street alignment, installation of barriers, and other
physical measures to reduce traffic speeds and/or
cut-through volumes, in the interest of street safety,
livability, and other public purposes. Besides making
pedestrians feel more comfortable in the streets,
traffic calming also pays off making other means
of transport such as bycicles more attractive. In
that sense, with the introduction of traffic calming
measures it is even not necessary to have bicycle
lanes in each street, because the controlled speed
and fewer amount of cars in traffic calmed areas
allows a better coexistence between both means of
transport. The improvement of pedestrian safety in
certain areas such as city centers also make those
areas more attractive for shopping.
When designing an specific area, distinctions are
to be made about the different hierarchy of the
streets. While highways and regional routes should
be allowed to be fast, local streets dont have the
need of such high speed, therefore calm traffic
strategies could be applied there. In that sense,
there are many traffic calming strategies and
elements that could be implemented according to
the specific goal the designer want to achieve as
well as the characteristics of the context in which
the design is taking place.
Some traffic calming measures that could be
applied include: vertical speed control measures
such as speed humps, raised crosswalks and
intersections; horizontal speed control measures
such as roundabouts, lateral shifts and narrowings
like neckdowns, chokers or center island narrowing
elements, among others.
CRSG
See also
Kids and elders in big cities; The Promenade; Semiflowing space; Nodes; Shared spaces; Guerrilla
gardening; Chamfered corners; The Slope; Wide
sidewalks; Native plants garden
37
Agricultural cluster in Westland, The Netherlands.
References
Porter, M.E. (1990) The competitive advantage of nations. New York: Free Press.
Roelandt, T., et al. (1999) Cluster analysis and cluster policy in the Netherlands. In: Organization for Economic
Co-operation and Development. Boosting innovation. The cluster approach. Paris: OECD Publications.
38
015
The cluster
It is being concentrated which

produces convenience. Samuel
Johnson cited by Jacobs (1961: 201)
Hypothesis
Activity clusters take advantage of agglomeration

economies and could become efficient and innovative
enviroments.
Theoretical backup
According to Roelandt, T. et al. (1998: 315)
Clusters can be characterized as economic
networks of strongly interdependent firms linked
in a value-adding production chain. Examples of
current economic clusters include Silicon Valley
in California or the Westland greenhouse area in
The Netherlands. These type of aglommerations
of activities and related services were described
by Porter, M. (1990) as one of the elements that
influence the competitiveness of a region. However,
the term cluster could be extrapolated and applied
not just to big groups of companies and industries
but also in the activities that happen in the city in
a different scale. An example of thriving services
clusters include the advertisment agency industry
in Madison Avenue, New York or the fashion design
sector of Antwerp. In most of these cluster cases
location plays a relevant role, specially in activities
needing face-to-face interaction. In even a smaller
and perhaps more local scale, clusters of certain
uses and activities reinforcing each other happen
everywhere probably at all levels of society. It is
common to see how certain type of retail operates
next to certain urban activities, for instance, around
university areas in several cities it is common to find
a cluster of bookstores, stationeries and pubs. Or in
cases like the citys CBDs together with the offices,
it is common to find specific fast-food restaurants,

cafes, printing shops, etc. All these examples show
how an urban activity tends to be supported by
others.
When carriyng out a design for an area it is important
to identify the relations between different activities
so the proposal could reinforce the existing activities
or even to lay the foundations for the appearance
of new others once we have identified a specific
combination of activities that could be potentially
relevant for generating new ones in a place. On the
other hand it is also important, that in addition of
having a certain specialization an area could also
have diversified options, so if one of the activities
fail the others could keep working.
CRSG
See also
Infrastructure node as economic attractor;
Brandscapes; Dimension of Sprawl; City center;
Decline of diversity; Districts; Nodes; Public
transport for the Edge City; Cause and effect.
39
The waterfront of Dordrecht
References
Marshall, R. ed., 2001. Waterfronts in Post-industrial Cities. London and New York: Spon Press.
40
016
The Waterfront
[] the waterfront becomes the stage

upon which the most important pieces
are set. In doing so, the waterfront
is an expression of what we are as a
culture. The urban waterfront provides
possibilities to create pieces of city,
to paraphrase Davey, that enrich life,
offer decency and hope as well as
functionality [] (Marshall, 2001, p.4)
Hypothesis
The waterfront is the most central and dense part of the

city, therefore it also should be the most vibrant and mixed
part of it.
Theoretical backup
The waterfront is a quality that materializes
the functional, cultural and spatial relationship
between city and water. It is the place where the
relationship (or dependence) between nature and
city is the most striking.
Cities crossed by rivers or bordered by large
water bodies tend to have their historical, cultural
and functional assets concentrated along the
riverbanks due to their historical development on
these strategic positions. Ports, harbors and trade
activities, directly related to water, are gradually
transformed into the most valuable public spaces
of contemporary cities. In other words, the former
central importance and position of the harbor is
replaced by the centrality of urban public life.
As a reaction to the deindustrialization and
abandonment of former harbor areas, an increasing
number of recent studies try to deal with the
phenomenon and potential of urban waterfront
transformations. Waterfronts in Post-industrial
Cities, edited by Richard Marshall (2001), is a result
of an international conference involving nine cities
dealing with the issues of deindustrialization on the
waterfront, therefore engaged in a debate dealing
with both locally specific and globally applicable
opportunities.
When designing on the waterfront, a rich mix of public
activities directly related to the quality of the water
body should be the guiding principle underlying the
design. Monofunctional developments that exclude
public activities (harbors, industries etc.) should be
secondary to this principle, and therefore moved to
less central positions.
These tasks are of primary public importance
and are the responsibility of the local authorities.
Therefore, the development of the waterfront must
be guided with urban rules that encourage public
use and high density.
When working on the waterfront, the designer
must support or aim for: a high mix of uses, a
representative skyline, and a continuous and
sufficiently wide promenade on the water edge.
CF
See also
Harborscape; Waterside public spaces; The city
crossed by a river; Public spaces; Pilot projects; Water mobility; Urban settlements in meander rivers;
Edges; Shoreline restoration; The promenade...
(for all the connections, see the patternfield)
41
The more we build up our dikes, the

more we increase the amplitude of
a potential collapse in the defensive
system.
References
Saeijs, H. et al. ed., 2004. Changing estuaries, changing views. Erasmus University, Rotterdam & Radboud
University, Nijmegen.
42
017
Dikes are not safe
Storms that do almost no harm in a

natural situation, turn into catastrophes
when dykes are breached. This
has been the rule for a thousand years.
A large number of such catastrophes
are recorded, many in the 13th-17th
centuries, and the last one in 1953. The
answer was always: build higher and
stronger dykes. The consequence was
always: more investments behind the
dykes and more damage in the next
catastrophe. (Saeijs et al., 2004)
Hypothesis
Dikes provide a false sense of safety.

areas should be left alone, and that the public must
be engaged in the process as much as possible.
Theoretical backup
Dikes are dimensioned according to the risk of
the area that they protect. The risk of a polder
is calculated by multiplying the probability of
occurring of a flood with the dimensions of the
impact of this flood, directly related to economic
development and urbanization. In other words,
by being surrounded with dikes, protected areas
become open to increased development, therefore
to an increased risk.
In Changing Estuaries, Changig Views, a study
made at Erasmus University, Rotterdam and
Radboud University, Nijmegen (Saeijs et al., 2004),
the authors question the efficiency and sustainablity
of the resistant flood protection systems. They point
out a few important aspects of the current defense
strategy: the maintenance and strengthening of
the existing structures involves very high recurrent
costs; it is impossible to infinitely raise the height
of the dikes; increased safety provided by dikes
and increased risk caused by further investment
in protected areas lead to a net zero rezult or even
worse; artficial mounds are the most ancient and
most modern way of surviving floods.
They suggest that interventions should be
sustainable, flexible, reversible, compatible with
natural processes, that morphologically active
By finding a way to reduce the dependence on dikes,
to (at least partially) restore the natural state of
the area, safety could be significantly increased.
Whatever we do, we should not continue with an
exculively defensive strategy. We cannot build,
raise, rebuild or strengthen the dikes forever. At a
certain point nature will become stronger. We need
to understand the natural processes and embed
them into our design thinking. This means on one
hand giving parts of our land back to the river, and,
on the other, allowing it to naturally rebuild the
landscape by means of sedimentation, erosion and
the changing of the soil composition.
Theres nothing safer than a naturally built
landscape...without dikes.
CF
See also
Inside and outside the dikes; The resilient delta;
The water city.
43
Natural delta landscape.
References
Hamblin, W.K. and Christiansen E.H., 2003. Earths Dynamic Systems. Prentice Hall
44
018
Water pressure
If there is still is a choice, leave

untouched estuaries and deltas alone.
(Saeijs et al., 2004)
Hypothesis
Rivers should have a balanced surface area, similar to the

one in their natural state.
Theoretical backup
Down-stream sections of rivers in their natural
state, especially in the dispertion system of the
deltas, have relatively wide sections, so that theres
a balance between pressure, speed, sedimentation
and erosion (Hamblin and Christiansen, 2003). By
artificially decreasing the river capacity, the river
pressure on land is raised, and so is the risk of
flooding.
Based on a visual observation of the existing river
tracks, the river water should occupy a sufficient
percentage of the surface of its delta. Artificially
controlled deltas assign a lower proportion to the
water surface related to land, thus increasing the
pressure and imposing an unbalanced, tensioned
natural state.
When discussing the case of the Western Scheldt,
the authors of Changing Estuaries. Changing
Views (Saeijs et al.,2004) point out the negative
consequences of dykes on water capacity. The
water of the river branch doesnt have enough
space to dissipate its energy, requiring a labourious
and countinuous maintenance of the river bed by
dreadging and, as a cosequence, leading (in that
case) to higher levels of saline water and ecological
problems.
When modifying the landscape of the delta,
regardless of the scale of intervention, at least 25%
of the study area must be occupied by open surface
water. It is essential to keep it open, therefore
directly connected to the main water system. If
the design area is next to one of the river branches,
half of the width of the neighboring river section
will be considered in the calculations. This way, all
the separate interventions will sum up to at least a
desirable 25% of water in the delta.
For this percantage an average depth of 5m was
taken. It is possible to increase the percentage
of water surface and decrease the dept, but the
volume must be at least 25% x S x 5m.
CF
See also
Water detention; Sedimentation; Sedimentation
in the floodplain; Shapes of the river; The resilietn
delta; The watercity; Urban settlements in meander rivers.
45
The Thames River crossing the center of London.
References
Marshall, R. (2001) Waterfronts in Post-industrial Cities, London and New York: Spon Press.
Meyer, H. (1999) City and Port. Transformation of Port Cities. London, Barcelona, New York: International
Books
46
019
The city crossed by
a river
This stitching of the city will bring

together the communities along the
riverbank [...]. The Nervin Ra will
no longer be a physical and social
boundary in the city. (Marshall, 2001)
Hypothesis
The river should always cross, not border the city.

feature for the city and in doing so repositions the
image of the city. (Marshall, 2001)
Theoretical backup
After the Middle-Ages, the river gradually lost its
defensive, bordering function. Initially, settlements
were positioned on one side of a river, taking
advantage of water transportation, trade routes,
while strategically occupying a topographic and
defensive position along its banks. By losing its walls,
the city finally could expand outwards, including the
other side of the river. Connections across the river
developed in such a way that the two halves could
function as close as possible to a whole.
In his article dealing with the image of the city
on the waterfront, Richard Marshall describes the
importance of weaving the two sides of the river
Nervion in Bilbao as follows:
This stitching of the city will bring together the
communities along the riverbank [...]. The Nervin
Ra will no longer be a physical and social boundary
in the city. The recently completed subway system,
whose tunnels run next to the watercourse, will
tie the river along its length and introduce seven
new bridges. The recovery of the riverbanks, by the
removal of obsolete structures and railways, opens
a new system of urban spaces and linear parks along
the river. Historically the city has always treated
the river as a back. The new condition of the river,
however, transforms the Nervin Ra into a major
Its central importance should be reflected in the
physical configuration of the city, by being urbanized
on all of its sides. The river is not a border but an
attractor, a potentially strong connection between
the two banks of the river.
A proper connection of the two sides of the river is
vital to fully benefit from the qualities of an urban
river. When designing along urbanized riverbanks,
these connections should be of primary importance.
However, these connections may have various
forms: from bridges, through integrated water
transport solutions, to the architecture of the two
waterfronts communicating with each other.
CF
See also
The Waterfront; Harborscape; Edges; Urban
settlements in meander rivers; Waterside public
spaces; The resilient delta; The water city; Large
scale infrastructure; .
47
The dike might grow and become even a visual barrier,

but functional connections are always preserved.
References
The 2011 Delta Programme. Working on the Delta. Investing in a Safe and Attractive Netherlands, now and in
the Future. Available at: http://www.deltacommissaris.nl/english/Images/Deltaprogramma_ENG1_tcm310286802.pdf (visited 03.05.2012)
48
020
Inside and outside
the dikes
There is a lack of a cohesive vision

concerning the conditions to be used
in the development of urban uses in
areas with unfavourable physical
characteristics. This applies in
particular to construction in areas
outside the dykes, on or next to flood
defence systems or in specific risk
areas. [...] A broadly supported vision
on a sustainable and future-proof
(re)development of built-up areas in
conjunction with the water tasks is
important for regional development.
(The 2011 Delta Programme)
Hypothesis
The dike has the potential of becoming a gradual

transition area, rather than just a sudden change in risk
of floodability.
Theoretical backup
Areas outside the dikes are under a constant threat
of flooding. Areas inside the dikes are protected.
Both are defined relatively to the position of dikes,
which are precisely traced borders of protection.
The dike is a defensive border. This is the definition
that can be extracted from their role in policy
documents and water defense strategies. The
classification or typologies of dikes includes a
reduced number of solutions that refer to functional
integration and gradual transition of dike sections.
A gradual spatial and functional transition from
outer and inner dike areas should be a key step in
designing dikes and neighboring inner and outer
areas. This way, neither the inner nor the outer
area risks to become segregated. One of the ways
to realize this is to encourage public activities that
span from one side to another, thus facilitating the
interconnection of the two areas.
CF
In the 2011 Delta Programme of the Netherlands,

the sustainable development of inner and outer dike
areas has been reassessed. New policies encourage
safe and damage-free building in areas inside
and outside the dikes, in and around flood defence
systems.
See also
The Waterfront; Urban settlements in meander
rivers; Waterside public spaces; Multifunctional
water protection; Large scale infrastructure;
Dikes are not safe.
49
Sometimes totally unrelated things can appear in tha

same place and same moment.
References
Jung, C.G., 1989. Memories, Dreams, Reflections. New York: Random House.
Koestler, A., 1973. The Roots of Coincidence. New York: Vintage Books.
50
021
Coincidences
A coincidence can be logically defined

as a surprising concurrence of events,
perceived as meaningfully related, with
no apparent causal connection. (Jung,
1963)
Hypothesis
People like coincidences, exactly because they cannot

explain them. Therefore coincidences have a great
conceptual potential in a design project.
Theoretical backup
A coincidence does not prove a causal or any
other modal relationship nor require any such.
Physically related events may be expected to have
a higher probability to occur, probability is the basic
metrics, or method, to rationally evaluate physical
coincidences. Any given set of coincidences may
be just a form of synchronicity, that being the
experience of events which are causally unrelated,
and yet their occurring together carries meaning to
the person observing the events (Jung, 1989).
The designer should not only follow pre-existing
conditions, but also look carefully for the relation
between these conditions. Some of these
connections might be counter-intuitive, even
coincidental. Instead of trying to precisely explain
things, probabilistic calculations (however not
needed) are more appropriate in such cases and can
give a dimension to the event/object that is being
studied. The less obvious and probable coincidences
are, the stronger they can be embedded in the design
concept.
CF
See also
Paradoxes; Pilot projects; Cause and effect;
Trace of former infrastructure; Identity and
regeneration.
51
Britains coastline - fractal dimensions.
References
Portugali, J. (2011), Complexity, Cognition and the City, Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer, pp. 269-83.
52
022
Paradoxes
Hypothesis
Paradoxes are good learning tools to study prediction in in

urban planning and its consequences on urban design.
Theoretical backup
Paradoxes have the capability to expose things that
are wrong when everything appears right. Therefore
they are good learning tools to study prediction in
in urban planning and its consequences on urban
design. Moreover, they signal the need for new ways
of thinking.
In his book, Complexity, Cognition and the City,
Juval Portugali describes paradoxes as learning
tools to understand contradictory behavior of certain
aspects of the city (Portugali, 2011). According to
this mindset, new design thinking should outline
paradoxical facts or events as basic premise for
innovation. For example, the well-known paradox of
Achilles and the Tortoise can be easily linked with
Mandelbrots fractal dimension.
In the example illustrated on the opposite page,
the principle of fractal dimension is applied to
measuring Britains coastline. Each step follows
a different reference unit. The length of each
perimeter is slightly different from the others. We
might say that the relativity of the measurment is
a result of how we choose our scale and base-units,
our convention.
Paradoxes might be regarded as a consequence of
conventions. Assuming that innovation in design is
driven by exploring new possibilities, it is safe to
say that the designer should question conventions,
common-knowledge and seek for a better, essential
understanding of the situation that he/she is dealing
with.
CF
See also
Coincidences; Cause and effect.
53
Palaeogeographic map of the Rhine-Meuse delta.
References
Hamblin, W.K. and Christiansen E.H., 2003. Earths Dynamic Systems. Prentice Hall
Berendsen, H.J.A. & E. Stouthamer (2001), Palaeogeographic development of the Rhine-Meuse delta, The
Netherlands. Assen: Van Gorcum. 270 p.
Berendsen, H.J.A. (2004), Rivers and the sea: how science went wrong explaining the formation of the
Netherlands coastal plain. In: Dietz, T., P. Hoekstra & F. Thissen eds. The Netherlands and the North Sea.
Dutch geography 2000-2004. KNAG: Netherlands Geographical Studies 325, p. 56-63.
54
023
Shapes of the river
Very few rivers (and certainly no

major ones) begin or end without
some relationship to the drainage
system that preceded them. Instead, a
drainage system continually evolves by
headward erosion and stream capture,
adjustment to the structure of the
underlying rocks, and modifications
related to marine transgressions,
continental glaciation, desert sand, and
continental rifting. [...] A rivers history
is a history of the landscape over which
it flows. (Hamblin and Christiansen,
2003, p.333)
Hypothesis
The recording of past shapes of a river is as important as

its current trajectory.
Theoretical backup
The shape of the river is constantly changing
over the centuries but it is imprinted, recorded
in the composition of the soil. This recording is as
important as the current trajectory of the river.
Rivers constantly shape their basin while searching
for the best trajectories towards the sea. Over the
centuries, they slowly change the land through
sedimentation and erosion, therefore they end up
migrating from one basin to another. A careful look
at the subsoil of the area reveals a dense, overlapped
web of past versions of the river system. (Hamblin
and Christiansen, 2003, Berendsen, 2001,2004)
When modifying a rivers trajectory or artificially
extending it with new river branches, it is important
to understand its river basins past dynamics. By
reconstructing its palaeogeographic structure or,
more exactly, by looking at the soil composition,
it is possible to identify its old trajectories. The
intervention should stay as much as possible within
the boundaries of the old trajectories, considering
that they have already been shaped and proven by
nature at a certain point in time.
CF
See also
Water mobility; Water pressure; The resilient
delta; Urban settlements in meander rivers; City
as part of nature; Shoreline restoration; Sedimentation; Sedimentation in the floodplain; Trace
of former infrastructure; .
55
Houtribdijk separating the Ijselmeer and Markermeer.
References
Hoss, F., Jonkman, S.N., Maaskant, B. (2011) A Comprehenisve Assessment of Multilayered Safety in
Flood Risk Management The Dordrecht Case Study, 5th International Conference on Flood Management
(ICFM5), Tokyo-Japan. Available at: http://www.hkv.nl/documenten/A_comprehensive_assessment_of_
multilayered_safety_in_flood_risk_management_BM.pdf (Visited: 04.05.2012)
The 2011 Delta Programme. Working on the Delta. Investing in a Safe and Attractive Netherlands, now
and in the Future. Available at: http://www.deltacommissaris.nl/english/Images/Deltaprogramma_ENG1_
tcm310-286802.pdf (visited 03.05.2012)
56
024
Flood-proof
Infrastructure
Hypothesis
In a water-defense strategy, major road infrastructure is as

important as the protection of urbanized land with dikes.
Theoretical backup
The Dutch multilayer safety approach divides
safety measures into three categories: (1)
prevention, (2) sustainable spatial planning, and
(3) disaster management. The first layer contains
all the physical measures for primary protection,
mainly dikes, dams, storm surge-barriers, etc. In
the second layer, the whole spatial organization of
the protected area is adapted to its particular risk
of flooding. The third layer is meant to provide
measures for the extreme case of flooding, such as
evacuation and public awareness.
Road infrastructure must be designed at the same
height as the protection system, according to the
same categories of safety. This means that primary
road infrastructure must have the same height as
the primary dike-ring, secondary roads must be
as high as secondary dikes, and so on. As much as
possible, these elevated infrastructures must be
used as dikes as well.
CF
Infrastructure is part of the second and third layer

of safety. On one hand, infrastructure networks are
primary elements of urbanization and, on the other
hand, need to remain functional even in the case of
a flood.
See also
Water mobility; Public transport for all; Infrastructure as carrier of culture; Trace of former
infrastructure; Large scale infrastructure.
57
The image of Hamburgs harbor, seen from the urban

historical waterfront.
References
Marshall, R. (2001) Waterfronts in Post-industrial Cities, London and New York: Spon Press.
Meyer, H. (1999) City and Port. Transformation of Port Cities. London, Barcelona, New York: International
Books
58
025
Harborscape
The harbor is a powerful realm that

projects the image of the city, defines
its identity and compensates for the
accidental nature of the other, urban
realm.(marshall, 2001, p.18)
Hypothesis
The bigness of a city harbor is something that makes

citizens proud of, it is part of their identity and heritage.
Theoretical backup
In a river city, the harbor is one of the most important
parts of the local identity, considering that, to a
large extent, its development is a result of a long
time of economic activities connected to water. It
creates jobs, but also a specific urban skyline.
Richard Marshall states that Sidney has always
had a strong relationship with its harbor. Its two
famous icons, the Harbour Bridge and the Opera
House, are harbor structures and constitute the
essence of the citys self-image. It is precisely this
character that makes it iconic. The Harbor Bridge is
equally representative adn cultural as the Sydney
Opera.
The visual connection between city and harbor must
be preserved.
When designing public spaces on the waterfront, the
view towards the river must be as open as possible
and should include not only the natural and urban
components of the landscape but also the specific
industrial silhouette of the neighboring harbor.
However, the noise created by harbor activities
might be disturbing in such public spaces therefore
the design must be on the opposing side of the river
and/or at a distance of at least 500 meters from the
harbor.
CF
Hamburgs harbor is another example of how the

image of the city is culturally intertwined with
the image of the harbor. Here the historical center
directly faces the massive harbor activity just
over the Elbe river. The image is part of the places
identity. Even though they only use the city, people
equally acknowledge the presence of the two sides
of the river.
See also
The waterfront; Urban settlements in meander
rivers; The promenade; Urban palimpsest; The
watercity; The city crossed by a river.
59
The sloped roof of TU Delfts library, during a sunny

day.
References
Neufert Architects Data, Third Edition (2002), Oxford, Wiley Blackwell
60
026
The slope
Hypothesis
Sloped surfaces enrich peoples interaction with the

landscape.
Theoretical backup
Depending on the degree of their inclination, sloping
surfaces in the public space create several new
kinds of uses. Inclinations below 5 degrees enable
a slow ascension, and allow easy access for people
with disabilities. Between 5-30 degrees the surface
receives an orientation, allowing people to easily
sit or lie down. On a larger scale, the surface might
cover a building. This way architecture becomes
also an urban object, an urban floor.
When designing inclined urban pedestrian surfaces,
thus allowing other uses apart from walking and
cycling, it is important to pay attention to the
materials and safety. The finishing of the surface
can be either mineral or vegetal, but it has to be
clean and confortable for those who sit or lie on it.
Below 10 degrees, walking surfaces must be harsh
in order to prevent slipping. Above 10 degrees,
access routes must have stairs.
Inclined surfaces tend to be avoided by people
passing by, therefore they must be designed for
relatively stationary activities.
CF
See also
Multifunctional water protection; Traffic calming;
Urban furniture; Water detention; Public spaces;
Green roofs; Tempos in the city.
61
Cause and Effect - Ishikawa fishbone diagram.
References
Portugali, J. (1997) Self-Organizing Cities, Futures, Vol. 29, No. 4/5, pp. 353-380
Portugali, J. (2011), Complexity, Cognition and the City, Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer
Pulselli, R. M. (2009) City out of Chaos, Urban Self-organization and Sustainability, Southampton, Boston: WIT
Press.
62
027
Cause and Effect?
Hypothesis
The effects of a design cannot be fully predicted.
Theoretical backup
According to chaos theory, chaotic systems cannot
be described by the means of cause and effect
anymore. Causal relations are too complex to
comprehend, Cities, regarded as open and complex
systems, are the best example of such chaotic
systems. Even though it might be tempting to claim
that future outcomes are clear and predictable,
there are always uncertainties, unpredictable
factors that could lead to totally undesirable
effects.
The urban designer must aim to trigger processes,
not to create finite design products. The design
must be as adaptive and open as possible. Multi
functionality, spatial flexibility, accessibility and
spatial integration are key characteristics of such
an adaptive and sustainable design,
CF
See also
Coincidences; Paradoxes; Pilot projects; The
cluster.
63
Venice, a water city.
References
Van Schaick, J. and Klaasen, I.T., 2010. The Dutch Layers Approach to Spatial Planning and Design: A Fruitful
Planning Tool or a Temporary Phenomenon?. TU Delft.
64
028
The Water City
Hypothesis
The water city can be described as an overlapped open

structure of the urban and water networks.
Theoretical backup
By looking at the Dutch Layers Approach, we might
state that a water city needs to embed, or at least
relate with, water on all of its layers: the built
environment needs to benefit from the presence
of water and form around it; water can be used
as a valuable infrastructural element; water is
generically defined as part of nature, the bottom
layer in the Layers Approach.
In delta cities where a large amount of water
surface is needed, urban areas must integrate a
certain amount of this surface.
The architecture and whole structure of the city
must be adapted to water dynamics.
CF
See also
The waterfront; Dikes are not safe; Water pressure; The city crossed by a river; Harborscape;
The resilient delta; Sedimentation; Water mobility; Urban settlements in meander rivers; Multifunctional water protection; City as a part of
nature; Vibrant water places; Swimming; Multifunctional water defense.
65
Illustration fo the proposed landscape in Ijland (Almere Buitendijks) by WEST8.
References
Hoogtij voor Laag Nederland. werken met de natuur voor een veilige en mooie delta, World Wide Fund Report
200.8 Available at: http://assets.wnf.nl/downloads/delta.pdf (visited 03.05.2012)
The 2011 Delta Programme. Working on the Delta. Investing in a Safe and Attractive Netherlands, now and in
the Future. Available at: http://www.deltacommissaris.nl/english/Images/Deltaprogramma_ENG1_tcm310286802.pdf (visited 03.05.2012)
66
029
The Resilient Delta
Sustainable land (and water) use is

characterised by adaptation to the
natural processes, and not vice versa.
(Saeijs et al., 2004, p.7)
Hypothesis
Resilience is sustainable, resistance is not.
Theoretical backup
In the context of delta interventions it is important
to address the issue of sustainability because of the
long-term character of delta strategies, extensive
ecological implications, land subsidance, and high
degrees of urbanization in the delta.
Natural processes must be involved into the design
process as much as possible. Understanding that
natural processes are by definition sustainable is
a strong argument to involve them into any kind of
sustainable landscape or urban project.
Our defensive strategies might protect us, but they

certainly raise the risks for future generations. By
allowing/supporting natural processes in the delta,
a balanced and safe environment will serve all
generations.
CF
See also
The waterfront; Dikes are not safe; Water pressure; The city crossed by a river; Shapes of the
river; The watercity; Sedimentation; Sedimentation in the floodplain; Urban settlements in
meander rivers; Purifying wetlands; Water detention.
67
Sedimentation in the floodplain.
References
Hamblin, W.K. and Christiansen E.H. (2003) Earths Dynamic Systems, Prentice Hall
68
030
Sedimentation in the
Floodplain
On the gentle slopes of shields and

stable platforms, most stream valleys
are covered with large quantities of
sediment that make up a flat surface
over which the stream flows.This
surface is called the floodplain, and
during high floods it may be completely
covered with water.(Hamblin and
Christiansen, 2003, p.317)
Hypothesis
Sedimentation is the natures way of building dikes.
Theoretical backup
Land created by the process of sedimentation
never breaks. Rivers landscapes are subject to
constant change, as a result of a continuous and
balanced process of erosion and sedimentation.
The topography shaped this way is predictable, in
the sense that the changes occur in very long time
spans, not suddenly as in the case of broken artificial
landscapes (broken dike resulting in sudden flood,
for instance).
Designers should integrate as much as possible the
natural process of sedimentation when working
in water defense strategies. Natural levees, safe
areas must be completely used before creating new
defensive structures.
The concept of the natural floodplain can be
extended to controlled flooadable compartments.
When preparing areas for a controlled process
of sedimentation, a good understanding of the
mechanism of a floodplain, might help to achieve an
accelerated and resilient sedimentation process.
CF
See also
Water pressure; Shapes of the river; The watercity; The resilient delta; Urban settlements in
meander rivers.
69
Westminster fronted benches, London. Source: Natland
References
Natland J. (2007) Urban by design: An evaluation of the public spaces in the downtown new Westminster
70
031
Urban furniture
Hypothesis
Distance between urban furniture elements enables or

avoids specific patterns in the human behaviour
Theoretical backup
Although some social groups, especially young tend

to find their own staying places, it is important to
allow a minimum quantity of them in an appropriate
distribution. A concentration of benches or lack
affects directly to the aggrupation of people in the
street.
Urban designers should take into consideration the

interaction between the urban space, their elements
and the users in order to make an appropriate design.
They should not only think about a nice distribution
in plan.
For example, the distance between pair of fronted

benches should be enough to facilitate the
conversation. (Jenifer Natland, 2007)
JGE
At the same time, an appropriate distribution of bins

will help to maintain the quality of the space while
a lack of them will facilitate the appearance of
garbage. Provision of dog droppings bins plays also
an important role in the quality of the space. The
existence of them has not only a practical aim but
an educational one too.
See also
Infrastructure node, as an economic attractor,
Wide Sidewalks, Swimming in the city, Sunny and
Shaded, Waterside public space, Urban porticos,
Traffic calming, Under the bridge, Vibrant water
places, Add program to the highway, trees as confort provider, The slope
71
London Bus Stop
References
Van Nes R. (2002) Design a multimodal transport network. A hierarchical approach TU Delft
Berechman J. (1988), Modeling land use and transportation: an interpretive review for growth areas,
Environment and Planning A, Vol. 20, pp. 1285-1309
Follet K. (2007) World without end. Penguin Books, London
72
032
Infrastructure node as an
economic attractor
Hypothesis
Infrastructural nodes are economic buffers not only for

allowing new connections but for the shops and services
that appear in their surroundings.
Theoretical backup
Ken Follet in the novel World without end (2007)
describes the impact of a bridge not only for the
development of a city but for its importance as an
economic attractor.
Architects, planners and transport engineers should
collaborate in the distribution of infrastructure
nodes and providing the sufficient basis for allowing
the establishment of external services
All the infrastructures can perform as buffers no

matter the size: central bus-train stations, airports,
seaports in different levels. Even small urban bus
stops are able to attract local shops or cafes.
JGE
Berachman (1988) called this kind of structures the

Economies of agglomeration. They provide positive
externalities allowing for new or larger facilities
(Van Nes, 2002)
See also
The edge city, Train station,The cluster, Wide sidewalks, Infrastructure as a carrier of culture
73
Zurichsee lake. Switzerland
References
Huynk B. (2011) The Cai Rang Floating Market, Vietnam:Towards Pro-Poor Tourism? Auckland University of
Technology. 64.
74
033
Water mobility
Hypothesis
While land connectivity depends on the man-made linear

infrastructures, water provides an infinitive number of
connections.
Theoretical backup
There are multiple examples of water integrated
region. Zurichsee, the lake in Zurich, is surrounded by
30 municipalities. A continuous urbanized strip can
be identified at both shores. The train lines or roads
surrounding it remain on a secondary background
while a big number of piers used for leisure or
transport porpoises can be found on the front.
An extreme example of this type of connectivity
could be the commercial use of the rivers and
lakes in some Asian regions. The Cai Rang floating
market at the Vietnamese Mekong delta is the
most important concentration. The character of
the area is in permanent variation. It starts early
in the morning when the bigger ships arrive. They
work as an anchor the the hundreds of small boats
that follows them. Residential areas are situated
along banks of rivers and canals, and densely
concentrated in hubs of waterways and roads, just
like in neighbouring provinces in the Mekong Delta
(Nguyen, 2004).
Enhancing the development on water areas and the
access to public or private transport modes, we
could improve the integration of a region. Therefore,
there would be more economic, cultural, social
opportunities.
JGE
See also
Floorproof infrastructure, Waterside public spaces,
Public transport for all, The watercity, Urban settlements in meaner rivers, The waterfront, Shapes of
the river, Large scale infrastructure, City crossed by
a river
75
United Kingdom
London
Outer London
Inner London
London_City Age Pyramids 2010
References
UK National Statistics, 2001. Census 2001: Local authority profiles & population pyramids (online) Available:
76
034
Kids and elders in big cities
Hypothesis
Proportion of kids and old people in big cities is lower than

in small ones. This pattern is more apparent in the central
areas of big metropolis.
Theoretical backup
If we compare the different urban entities,

National-Metropolitan-Inner and Outer city, taking
London as a case study, it is possible to understand
these social variations. The 2001 census shows a
balanced pyramid in the national and the outer
London, while the inner London and, more clearly,
the City of London have an extreme low rate of
young and old inhabitants.
Central areas in big cities should take into

consideration the necessary requirement for the
people between the mentioned ranges of age so
that they could have access to the same facilities at
the periphery such as green spaces, sports halls and
so on. Mobility and the access to a family size flat
in the central areas should also be enhanced.
Possible reasons for this pattern are main reasons

for this pattern:
JGE
1. Urban conditions and prices are more affordable

in the periphery of the city.
2. Issues with traffic, noise, safety
3. Migration has a deep influence. It takes place
mostly in the range of 20-35 year people who are
looking for a livelier city or better job conditions.
However, a big amount of people tend to return to
their original places and settle down.
See also
typology variation in neighbourhoods, Wide Sidewalks, Accesible natural areas, Traffic calming, Addaptative public space, Transport for all, City center,
Public transport for all, Pocket parks
77
Dalston market, London. Source: J. Garate
References
Huynk B. (2011) The Cai Rang Floating Market, Vietnam:Towards Pro-Poor Tourism? (online) Auckland
University of Technology. p. 35 Available: http://aut.researchgateway.ac.nz/bitstream/handle/10292/1487/
Pro-poor Tourism Partnership. Web: http://www.propoortourism.org.uk/
78
035
Street Markets
[] When this connection of commerce

and community is achieved markets
become catalysts and centres of entire
districts, offering a variety of places
to shop, live, stroll and be entertained
(Huynk, 2011, p.35)
Hypothesis
Street markets perform as urban hubs not only for the

tourist but the local inhabitants.
Theoretical backup
Borough Market and Brick Lane in London, Blaak
market in Rotterdam or the street market in Delft
are an important element of the identity of a city
and society. Therefore, they become touristic
attractors. From homemade food to furniture, they
represent the traditional aspects of the society and
make them interesting for tourists. It is a direct
way of reading the cultural aspects of a place.
Planners and politicians should allow the appearance
of street markets, under regulated bases, so that
they can become a sharing event and not an illegal
activity. At the same time, existent markets should
be preserved and revitalized.
JGE
There are multiple types of markets: historical,

food, floating, indoor They all play an important
role in the social interaction.
They can also be used for revitalizing poor regions as
Hunk suggests about the Cai Rang floating market
(2011). They offer multiple job opportunities for the
poorest people.
Pro-poor tourism is a kind of business interaction
that enhances the economic activities, participation
and involvement in poor regions through touristic
strategies. Markets are one of main activities that
help to produce this goal.
See also
Services, Wide Sidewalks, Sunny and Shaded,The
promenade, Districts, Add program to the highway,
Under the bridge, Semi-flowing space
79
Traditional Ukranian house
References
Nieves J. & Hernandez J. (2005)10th Congress of the International Colour Association, Proceedings Book
(Online) Available: http://www.fadu.uba.ar/sitios/sicyt/color/2005AIC.pdf
80
036
Respect the local folklore
Polychromy = Joy
(Le Corbusier, 1937)
Hypothesis
In regions where the landscape is snowy most of the year,

people tends to have colourful house interiors.
Theoretical backup
Colour has been vanished from architecture
design among several periods of history. Until the
18th century it was not discovered that Greek
architecture was not white but polychromatic.
In the beginning of the 20th century, Le Corbusier
referring to the exhibition of the Pavillon des Temps
Nouveaux of 1937, associated the creative ages of
architecture to the vitality of chromatic color and
the stagnant academicism to sad gray (Nieves &
Hernandez, 2005).
In the case of traditional houses in Ukraine, although
there are different tons of white, in the interior
tends to be more colourful that in other cultures
contrasting the uniformity of the landscape that is
white most of the year. It has cultural and tradition
origins since their inhabitants keep vivid coloured
decoration in their homes.
Tradition and folklore has been always together
with the use of colour. Therefore, a sustainable
architecture must understand their origins, rules
and uses instead of vanish them and imposing new
neutral trends.
At the same time, colour plays an important role
in the human behaviour and mood. Each colour
has some psychological effects associated: green
for calm, red for intense emotions, white for light
spaces Designers should not only think on the
spatial qualities but on the impact the surfaces
have on the personality.
JGE
See also
Colour in public space, Identity and regeneration
81
Favela Painting project
References
Cameron S. & Coafee G. (2005) Art, Gentrication and Regeneration, From Artist as Pioneer to Public
Arts(online) European Journal of Housing Policy Vol. 5, No. 1, p. 40 Available: http://www.scholars-on-bilbao.
Favella Painting Project: http://www.favelapainting.com/home
Matiaello M. (2004) Colour and light in architecture (online) Available: http://www.fadu.uba.ar/sitios/sicyt/
color/aic2004/190-193.pdf
82
037
Colour in public space
[] The use of colour to improve

and
organize
underprivileged
areas, as a means of stimulating
the inhabitants to take better care of them
and to protect them, is a good starting
point. [] (Matiaello, 2004, p. 194)
Hypothesis
Colour can be used as a tool for revitalizing secondary

urban spaces
Theoretical backup
Colour plays an important role in the identity of
public space both in the positive and negative
points of view. The relation between the public and
private space does not only depend on volumetric
or connectivity issues. Facades create the volume
of the public space and therefore give them the
identity. From this point of view, street artists
can take a predominant position involving an
aesthetic valorisation of the urban fabric of decayed
neighbourhoods. (Cameron and Cofee, 2005)
A correct use of the colour in the public space, can
give a new character to a depressed neighbourhood.
The investment doesnt have to be big but smart.
Strategic projects among the area can enhance the
expansion of the proposal.
JGE
Together with a correct illumination, it can be used

to reduce the crime rate, since the space is no longer
anonymous and it led to an increase in solidarity
amongst its inhabitants. (Matiaello, 2004)
Painting Favela project, proposed by Jeroen
Koolhaas and Dre Urhahn, brings pieces of colour to
unexpected places. The projects, mainly based in
the Rio de Janeiro slums, are founded by anonymous
donations and created with the collaboration of
local young people. There are several examples
that transform grey faade spaces into colourful
squares.
See also
Identity and regeneration, Art in Public space, Respect the local folklore, Guerrilas garden, Community gardens
83
London
Madrid
Dublin
Beirut
Image Sources: London-Jason Cuddy

References
Valdearcos E. (2008) El arte romanico (online) Clio. Available: http://clio.rediris.es/n34/arte/11%20
ElarteRomanico.pdf
Klingmann A. (2003) Brandscapes (online) Archithese. Available: http://www.klingmann.com/new/NEWS/
byklingmann/015/015.pdf
En.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franchising
84
038
Kate-Moss Land
Hypothesis
Due to global brands, the image of the cities all over the
world tends to be similar.
Theoretical backup
The impact of International Corporations and
franchise on the image of the cities through
advertisement reduces the variety and differences
creating similar landscapes.
Globalization is not a new process. During the
10th century, The Romanic style was expanded
through the pilgrimage routes by the Cluny monks.
(Valdearcos, 2008) It had a big influence in the
image of the cities. However, the impact was much
lower than the current situation. Although there
are some examples of repeated buildings such
as octagonal churches, the expansion of the style
merged with local ones. Nowadays, this merging
process is not taking place.
We cant stop the globalization process. However,
architects, designers and planners should take
into consideration the local traditions and be able
to merge them with the global culture. In that
direction, the impact of global brands in historical
buildings or main public spaces should be regulated
in order to maintain the local character and identity.
JGE
Mango has currently 700 shops in 73 countries.

There is only one advertisement campaign with
Kate Moss as the main corporative image. The
advertsiment can be found in different places in the
cities starting from the brand shop windows to bus
stops or even building constructions covers.
In contrast to traditional architecture, basing its
formal articulation on notions of culture, context
and function, brand architecture manifests its own
cultural landscape, deriving from a particular brand
identity (Klingmann, 2003).
See also
Colour in public space, Identity and regeneration,
Declining of diversity, Historic building
85
Oxford Street, London
References
* Title has been borrowed from Klingmann article: Brandscapes
Klingmann A. (2003) Brandscapes (Online)Archithese. Available: http://www.klingmann.com/new/NEWS/
byklingmann/015/015.pdf
86
039
Brandscapes*
Hypothesis
The amount and type of services depend on the size and

character of the area they serve.
Theoretical backup
Similar services can be found in different cities under
some hierarchical rules. Brands and franchises
demand a minimum amount of potential market for
being established in a certain area. Therefore, we
will only find local shops in small villages, while in a
big metropolis we will have access to international
brands.
The process of brand territorialisation affects
mostly to the urban centres where they benefit from
careful selected sites. Postdamer Platz in Berlin
is strongly related to Daimler Chrysler and Sony,
while Times Square relates to Disney. (Klingmann,
2003) These global interests result into a similar
landscape-brandscape of services.
A repetitive strip or shops can be found in the areas
around London Underground stations: caf Nero,
Starbucks, bank offices, Pret a Manger, Top Shop,
McDonalds, Primark having a strong impact into
the area. In the case of commercial streets like
Oxford street, the pattern is repeated several times.
It results into a vicious circle where the brand shops
are the only ones able to afford certain premises.
It is accepted that the appearance of services need
a specific market. They can be a strong participant
in the design of decay areas by using consumption
as driving force (Klingmann, 2003). However,
the urban planification should enhance variety
between local and international brands regulating
the possible inflation of the area and avoiding a
repetitive landscape.
JGE
See also
Kate-Moss land, The cluster, Landmarks, Identity
and regeneration, Abandoned buildings, City centre,
Historic Building
87
London, 1860
ROTTERDAM
LONDON
FRANKFURT
Historic centre
Sedimentation
LOGROO
ZARAGOZA
References
Hambling K. & Crhisritanshen H (2011) Earths Dynamic systems (online) Available: http://earthds.info/
Sengupta, S. (2001) Rivers and floods(online), Available: http://www.breakthrough-india.org/archives/flood.
pdf
88
040
Urban settlements in meander rivers
Hypothesis
When there is no specific height difference that would

make one of the riversides more preferable, the original
settlements of big cities are on the concave riverbank.
Theoretical backup
Water flow and geometry of the river basins
create 2 different types of soils characterized by
sedimentation and erosion due to the centrifugal
forces and different water speeds. While the
concave bank is eroded, sedimentation takes place
in the convex one.
When there are no height differences that
recommend the urbanization of one of the sites,
urban settlements tend to be established on the
concave side, more stable.
Original settlements of major cities in Europe
follow this pattern: London, Rotterdam, Frankfurt,
Moscow The concave banks where left for
secondary uses due to its low soil qualities. It was
not until the urban pressure and technique evolution
of the 19th and 20th century when they jumped to
the other bank.
Although the evolution of construction techniques
has allowed us to urbanize weak soils, we should
consider the natural fluctuations of the river in
order to make the cities more sustainable. Instead
of making great infrastructure interventions for
changing and fighting those patterns, we should
accept the challenge for integrating them. Future
cities could have different characters and uses
depending on the river banks. While one could follow
the traditional principles because the soil is stable,
the other could have more interrelation with the
river and propose new typologies such as floodable
or floating houses.
JGE
See also
Shape of the river, the city crossed by a river, Harbourscape, Shaping of the landscape, The watercity,
Sedimentation in the floodplain, City as a part of
Nature, The sedimentation, Edges, The Waterfront,
Water public spaces, , Urban Palimpsest, Swimming
in the city, Shoreline restoration, Purifying wetlands, Large scale infrastructure, Water pressure
89
San Francisco commuters
London Stadistics, reasons for usign the bcycle

References
Lynch K. (1988) The Image of the city. MIT Press. p. 49
Transport for London Report 3 (2010) pp. 68. (online) Available: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/
corporate/travel-in-london-report-3.pdf
Diario de Navarra (2010) Los usuarios de villavesa invierten 19 minutos de media en cada trayecto (Online)
Available: http://www.diariodenavarra.es/20100216/pamplona/los-usuarios-villavesa-invierten-19-minutosmedia-cada-trayecto.html?not=2010021601285988&dia=20100216&seccion=pamplona&seccion2=pamplo
na
90
041
Timescapes
Hypothesis
Commuting time perception is relative
Theoretical backup
While the average travel time in big cities such as
London or Sao Paulo is 67 (Transport for London,
2010) and 75 min respectively, it is 19 min (Diario
de Navarra, 2010) in small cities like Pamplona in
Spain, 250.000 inhabitants. However, the needed
time for crossing the Spanish regional capitol might
be 45 min with the public transport, a long trip for a
short distance.
When a person is adapted to a certain city and
needs to adapt to a bigger one, his size perception
changes. It will be perceived smaller than what it
was originally. Short-long, big-small is relative to
the perception and therefor it can be variable.
Cities must display the coherent tools to be
sustainable in mobility terms. It is not only referred
to the necessity of an appropriate infrastructure
system that will make the trips shorter but to
provide enough information, references points and
variety of options so that people can understand and
make the best out of the structure of the city. Similar
commuting trips can be hard or easy depending on
the number of transfers, agglomerations, price or an
interesting sightseeing. For instance, people might
prefer spending more time cycling instead of using
the public transport. (See chart on previous page)
JGE
Learning also plays an important role in it. A place

becomes more accessible and affordable when we
know it. Distances become shorter. Landmarks are
used clues of identity and even structure, and seem
to be increasingly relied upon as a journey becomes
more and more familiar. (Lynch, 1988)
See also
Public transport for the edge city, Vertical references, City centre, Tempos in the city
91
Tree of Life, Bahrain.
References
Nijhuis, S.; Van Lammeren, R. & Van Der Hoeven, F.D. (2011) Exploring the Visual Landscape. Advances in
Physiognomic Landscape Research in the Netherlands. Amsterdam, IOS press (RiUS 2)
Bell, S. (1996) Elements of the visual design in the landscape. London, E&FN Spon
92
042
The Single Factor
Hypothesis
A single element will always turn into a reference point.
Theoretical backup
In 1996, Bell made a description of the visual

landscape based on its elements. The basic entity
is the point, together with line, plane, solid volume,
open volume. A point in space has strong impact into
the observer. The context plays also an important
role since it defines the character of it.
In an otherwise empty landscape a single tree or
building may have a disproportionate visual effect,
because it is the only object of contrast to attract
our attention. Then it may become a figure standing
out from the background.
Understanding the spatial relations of the visual

landscape and the consequences in the human
perception is a useful tool in the design process. It
will also add extra value to our proposal integrating
the spatial conditions of the context and will help to
avoid external factors and reduce the randomness
of the design.
JGE
He also established a coherent relation and

manipulation of the visual landscape elements:
1. Variables: number, position, direction, orientation,
size, shape, form, interval, texture, density, colour,
time, light, visual force, visual inertia
2.O rganization: diversity, unity, genius loci

a.Spatial cues: nearness, enclosure,
interlock, continuity, similarity, figure and ground

b.Structural elements: balance, tension,
rhythm, proportion, scale

c.Ordering: axis,
datum, transformation
symmetry,
hierarchy,
See also
93
Edward Hopper, People in the Sun
References
Holvik, K.; Brunvand, L; Brustad, K. & Meyer, E. (2008) Vitamin D status in the Norwegian population. (online)
Oslo. Available: http://www.dnva.no/geomed/solarpdf/Nr_17_Holvik_Meyer.pdf
Baute, N. (2010), Depression really does turn the world grey, study shows, (online) Available: http://www.
healthzone.ca/health/mindmood/mentalhealth/article/839081--depression-really-does-turn-the-worldgrey-study-shows
94
043
Sun instincts
Hypothesis
A sunny spot in a grey day is always occupied by people
Theoretical backup
In certain weathers, consciously or instinctively, we
tend to move to the sunny bench or take the sunny
sidewalk of the street. This behaviour is not just
due to the warm satisfaction. There are multiple
physiologic and psychological reasons.
Adequate sun exposure helps our organism to
synthetize Vitamin D. In Nordic countries, such as
Norway there is a wide description of the relation
between sun and this vitamin (Holvik, 2008). At the
same time, it has been also analysed the relation
between sun and the number of suicides. Opposite
to what is commonly thought, the depression raises
during the winter time, but the number of suicides
remains stable. It is in June, when the weather
condition changes when the rates change. (Holvik,
2008)
At the same time, human mood has a strong relation
with colour. A recent article published in the
Biological Psychiatry journal states that clinically
depressed people have difficulties detecting
contrast between black and white, which means
that while theyre feeling blue the world might
actually look dull or grey (Baute, 2010)
We, as architects, should take into consideration
the human behaviour and relation with the weather
conditions understanding how people will interact
with our designs. This approach will fit into more
sustainable projects that will take into account the
sun, energy efficiency, human relations
JGE
See also
Shade and sunny, Respect the local folklore, Colour
in the public space
95
Felipe Morozoni Highway, Sao Paulo
References
Koolhaas, R (2008) Junkspace. GG. Barcelona
Rogers, R (1995) Cities for a small Planet. London
96
044
Residual city
Hypothesis
Interstitial spaces between 2 neighbourhoods can be used

for connecting instead for separate.
Theoretical backup
Infrastructure networks in big metropolis create
not only connections in the regional level but also
divide in the local one. In the case of Sao Paulo,
the differences are not just physical. They lead into
different social and economic juxtapositions. The
image of a favela next to a luxury building is widely
recognisable.
The city is full of what Rem Koolhaas calls
Junkspace: Junkspace is the sum total of our
current achievement; we have built more than all
previous generations together, but somehow we do
not register on the same scales. We do not leave
pyramids. According to a new gospel of ugliness,
there is already more junkspace under construction
in the 21st century than survived from the 20th
However, an appropriate use and manipulation of
these spaces can help us to create rich environments
where both social groups can enrich from the other.
Richard Rogers (1995) proposed the distinction
between the single minded spaces and the socalled open minded space. The first is designed
by planners and developers with only one purpose
in view. The second caters for a variety of uses in
which everyone can participate.
JGE
See also
Pocket parks, Community gardens
97
Volkswagen factory, Pamplona
References
Martincigh, L. (2002) From the past for the future: visions and interventions (online) DIPSA - Roma Tre
University. Available: http://www.walk21.com/papers/301B%20Lucia%20Martincigh%20From%20the%20
past%20for%20the%20future.pdf
98
045
The invaders
Hypothesis
Car drivers have the ability to find parking lots that

architects would have never imagine.
Theoretical backup
Public space is being invaded by the enormous
amount of cars we have. The character of the
streets is defined by its level pedestrianization and
the constant battle between cars and people. The
visual landscape has suffered a strong influence by
them.
According to Lucia Martincigh (2002), streets are
the space were most of the life is taking place. In
Roman times, Pompeii already had bollards that
defined the space of the forum. During the middle
ages, there were 3 main squares in the cities with
specific uses: meeting/ communication, religious/
theatrical and transacting business/open market.
Jumping in history, one of the most relevant urban
space of the 19th century were the boulevards.
They had a strong impact in the society since people
used to go there for demonstrate their social status.
The first cars, a luxury, were also part of that
interaction.
Nowadays, we are suffering a car invasion that
creates strong urban problems. It is ironic that
because of that reason, we dont have enough space
for human activities.
New approaches and policies are being applied to
solve those spatial issues. Smaller cars or stratified
carparks that would make the best out the space
or tax impositions are some of those approaches.
Apart from that, we could think on the changeable
character that cars are giving to the urban
landscape and make proposal for a better shared
space. Parking lots, big avenues and city belts have
different aspect in the weekends. We could think
about full-empty spaces and find new opportunities
in them. s
JGE
See also
99
people gathering under the shade provided by trees.
References
Jacobs, A. (1995) Great Streets. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 1995
H. AKBARI, M. POMERANTZ and H. TAHA. (2001) COOL SURFACES AND SHADE TREES TO REDUCE ENERGY
USE AND IMPROVE AIR QUALITY IN URBAN AREAS. Solar Energy Vol. 70, No. 3, pp. 295310, 2001. Elsevier
Science Ltd
100
046
Trees as comfort providers
Under the shade of a large tree,

Feeling the soft cool breeze,
Breathing the fresh countryside air,
Listening the rustle of leaves,
And enjoying the refreshment of an icecold beer.
Yes, the perfect moment of peace.
(Lots of poem. A huge collection of
poem. retrieved on 1 June 2012 from
http://www.lotofpoems.com/shadeunder-the-tree/ )
Hypothesis
In public space trees are an important element to provide

comfort to the people.
Theoretical backup
Trees provide shadow in sunny days, this is important
during hot days to maintain the comfort zone in
the space allowing people to stay in the place and
therefore keeping it lively. In addition it can turn
large open spaces into human-scale proportions
defining the area for public space and protecting
it from external undesirable elements e.g. cars.
Furthermore trees can be an important aesthetic
element in the landscape with many kinds of leafs,
flowers, crown forms, size, etc.
In public spaces make use of trees where its
desirable to gather people. To complete the
environment make use of tables, ponds, fountains
or any other source of water to enrich the sensory
experience. Interior spaces such as cafes,
restaurants, pubs, can provide the excuse to go
gather in the public space.
LGO
See also
Native plants gardens, Height with ratio, Pocket
parks, Green network-greenways, Community gardens, Guerillas gardening, Public spaces, The promenade, The rooftop, Sunny and shaded, Vibrant water places, Wide sidewalks, Urban furniture
101
Windows in buildings surrounding a main square.
References
Jacobs, A. (1995) Great Streets. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 1995
102
047
The window towards
public spaces
Hypothesis
It is important that buildings have windows towards the

public space.
Theoretical backup
People feel safe because the space is being watched.
In addition people inside the buildings are able to
contemplate humans interaction in the public
space, driving in the desire to live that outsideexperience. On the other hand, people from the
outside can see something is happening inside the
building. This provokes certain interaction between
the interior and the exterior.
In buildings facing public space make use of
windows to encourage interaction between interior
and exterior. In the ground floor locate a store, cafe,
restaurant, etc. to rise the degree of interaction
between inside-outside experiences.
LGO
See also
The promenade, Public spaces, Transparency
103
chamfered corner in Barcelona, Spain.
References
Corominas Ayala, Miguel (2010) Los orgenes del ensanche de Barcelona. suelo, tcnica e iniciativa. Ediciones
UPC (2010).
104
048
The chamfered corner
Hypothesis
Neighborhoods with high built density and five or more

story buildings need chamfered corners.
Theoretical backup
Chamfered corners in high built density

neighborhoods with buildings of five or more story
height help to free space and give openness to the
already constrained urban setting.
When you are designing blocks of neighborhoods

with high built density and high buildings, use the
chamfered corners with an angle of 45 degrees and
a minimum distance of 5m from the corner.
This design allows for increased natural light and

ventilation as well as greater visibility at crossing
points (roads and sidewalks).
LGO
See also
Traffic calming, Wide sidewalks, Height/ width ratio,
Public space
105
two kinds of promenade: in the waterfront and in the city

References
SUKRITI AGARWAL (Summer 2003). Urban Design Strategies for Revitalization of Public Spaces in Bucharest,
Romania. School of Policy, Planning and Development. University of Southern California.
-The promenade in action (2009). In: Promenades, Reading the Arcades/Reading the Promenades. Retrieved
10 May 2012 from: http://arcadespromenades.wordpress.com/2009/06/08/the-promenade-in-action/
106
049
The promenade
Hypothesis
A promenade is a very important element to connect

diverse activities and environments within a neighborhood.
Theoretical backup
The promenade as social space has to do with
movement, surveillance and observation, display
and distinction, and the integration of urban space.
The use of the promenade, besides to connect and
integrate urban space, is mainly for leisure so those
engaging in leisure are to meet here.
Pedestrian scale is very important as well as land
uses along it. Flexible commercial, recreational
and cultural activities bring a casual environment
perfect for strolling around.
pedestrian system with bicycles, and public transit

and linked to local shopping, services, housing,
amenities and between adjacent developments.
Surrounding buildings must enhance Public Spacepedestrian environment: There should be a mix of
uses with interaction between inside and outdoors.
Parking: Provide parking facilities nearby to make
the promenade pedestrian oriented but at the same
time accessible for car users.
Promenades can become the liveliest part of a

neighborhood where many different things can
happen and a place that people can do their own.
LGO
A promenade must have the following attributes:
Visual Interest: Created by different design
elements such as trees, fountains and sculptures.
Street Furniture.
Signage system: Proper signage for orienting the
users of the space to sites of interest. Also signs
that connect/engage with people.
Pedestrian
accessibility:
An
interconnected
See also
Bicing, Green network-greenways, Edges, Harbors
cape, Height width ratio, Mix of landuse, Multifunctional water defense, Native plants gardens, Paths,
Pilot projects, Public spaces, Semi flowing space,
Shared spaces, Street market, Sunny and shaded,
Swimming, Trees as comfort provider, Urban furniture, Vibrant water places, The waterfront, Wide
sidewalks, The window towards public spaces
107
children playing a public rooftop.
References
Duany, Andres; Plater-Zyberk, Elizabeth; Speck, Jeff (2000). Suburban Nation: The Rise of Sprawl and the
Decline of the American Dream, North Point Press, 2000.
Mattson, Kevin (1999); Reclaiming and Remaking Public Space: Toward an Architecture for American
Democracy. National Civic Review, Volume 88, Issue 2, pp. 133144, Summer 1999.
Squires, Gregory (2002). Sprawl: causes, consequences and policy responses. Urban Institute Press,
Smiley, David J; Robbins, Mark (2002). Sprawl and public space: redressing the mall. National Endowment
for the Arts, 2002.
Garreau, Joel (1992). Edge city; life on the new frontier. Anchor/Doubleday 1992.
108
050
The public rooftop
Hypothesis
Over densification of cities is no excuse for giving up public

space.
Theoretical backup
Theoretical backup Theoretical backup Theoretical
Many big metropolises suffer from over densification,
and not adequate urban policies have led to lack of
sufficient public space.
On one hand the over densification cause the rise
of land value making the public space the last
investment since there is no direct money return. On
the other hand local governments are giving in the
responsibility for urbanization to private developers.
When there is no room for public space due to over
densification of the land, engage private developers
and foster the mixed programs in the buildings to
create public space e.g. allow developers to increase
the built area as long as they include public space in
the building. It can be a public rooftop preferably
within the first 5 stories.
LGO
Under this panorama public space is losing

importance since malls, sports clubs, private gyms,
social clubs etc. are replacing public areas.
Nevertheless public space is an important element
of cities from the ancient civilizations up today.
Public spaces are what the philosopher Michael
Walzer has called Open Minded Spaces. Spaces
that are good for civic life as they are places where
a wide variety of people can coexist, places where
a wide variety of functions encourage unexpected
activities, places whose multiple possibilities
lead naturally to the communication that makes
democracy possible.
See also
Public spaces, Trees as comfort provider, Native
plants gardens, Mix of landuse, Water detention,
Community gardens, Pocket parks
109
shoreline before, during and after restoration

References
IBA-Machbarkeitsstudie. Deichpark Elbinsel. IBA Hamburg GmbH 2011.
What are living shorelines?. Melody Ray-Culp, Florida Panhandle Coastal Program U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
8 June 2010
Karen A. Duhring, Overview of Living Shoreline Design Options for Erosion Protection on Tidal Shorelines.
Retreived on 27 March 2012 http://www.vims.edu/cbnerr/
110
051
Shoreline restoration
There has been a long time disconnect

between how nature operates and
how we as humans have built our
civilization.
Alsenas, Paul. Director of Cuyahoga
Countys planning commissio
(retrieved 27 March 2012 http://
www.cuyahogariverrap.org/
newsgreenbulkhead.html)
Hypothesis
Water defense is not only against flooding, but also against

erosion since this phenomenon can cause loss of property
and damage other water defense systems such as dykes,
as well as the decay of the ecosystem qualities.
Theoretical backup
In order to maintain the inhabited territory

untouched by natural processes of sedimentation
and erosion, or to gain space to water for industrial
or estate developments, human-being have
relentlessly controlled shorelines during years.
When natural shorelines have been altered it is

time to restore them based on natural processes
that facilitate environmental cycles, through the
strategic regarding and placement of plants, sand
fill, stone support and other structural
On the one hand, port activities have caused that

entire urban areas located by water streams become
environmentally affected, losing natural qualities
that could be used when the port decay and an
urban transformation is needed. On the other hand
climate change and affectation of natural reefs have
caused that coastal shorelines around the world are
threatened by wave energy erosion, losing natural
qualities required not only by estate developers but
by owners of properties along shorelines.
and/or organic materials such as bio logs. The

concept of living shoreline must be applied in order
to fulfill the aforementioned processes as well as
to engage community and lay the foundations for a
sustainable future.
The problem is not only about the affectation to

stakeholders properties, but the harm to natural
processes necessary to regenerate physical limits
and environmental qualities of shorelines. Those
qualities are:
Reduce wave energy, reduce storm water velocity,
buffer storms, reduce erosion and property loss, trap
sediment, maintain natural sediment movement,
improve water quality, filter pollutants, allow tidal
exchange, preserve shoreline resiliency, provide fish
and wildlife habitat.
LGO
See also
Urban settlements in meander rivers, City as a part
of nature, Identity and regeneration, Native plants
gardens, Pilot projects, Purifying wetlands, Sedimentation, Shapes of the river Soft interventions
for nature areas, The waterfront, Waterside public
spaces
111
public space emphasizing the dynamics of nature
References
Tjallingii, S (2000) Ecology on the landscape: Landscape and ecology between town and country. Landscape
and Urban Planning 48 103-119
Corner, J (1992) Representation and Landscape: Drawing and making in the landscape medium. Word & Image
8 (3), 243-275
112
052
Adaptive public space
Hypothesis
Public space should be flexible to the way people use it,

but also able to adapt to the way nature embrace it.
Theoretical backup
Public space studies are focused on how to make
it flexible to the different ways people use it.
However nature can be considered as another
user since public space use nature as an important
element, sometimes even as a transition between
urbanization and natural areas (buffer zones in the
Randstad, waterfronts, peripheral urban parks or
environmental reservations). Nature is always
changing and public space is static. Designers
often recognize visual, material and weather
characteristics of a place -as the genius loci(Corner, J 1992) in order to incorporate them to the
final artifact. However very few times they make
use of the dynamics of nature to approach a process
based artifact or spatial plan (Tijallingii, S 2000).
Make use of natural changing conditions of powerful
landscape elements such as water in sea or rivers,
snow in cold winters, rainwater in heavy rain places,
to make public space an evolving and dynamic
process that give diversity to urban landscapes in
cities.
LGO
See also
City as part of the nature, Public space, Shoreline
restoration, Waterside public spaces, Waterfront,
Urban settlements in meander rivers
113
buildings that characterize the Edge City

References
Bontje, Marco; Burdack, Joachim (2005). Edge Cities, European-style: Examples from Paris and the Randstad.
Cities, Vol. 22, No. 4, p. 317330, 2005.
Crawford, Margaret 2002. Suburban Life and Public Space, in Sprawl and public space: redressing the mall.
National Endowment for the Arts, 2002.
Garreau, Joel (1992). Edge city; life on the new frontier. Anchor/Doubleday 1992.
Helling, Amy. 2002, Transportation, Land Use, and impacts of Sprawl on Poor Children and Families in Sprawl:
causes, consequences and policy responses. Urban Institute Press, pp. 119-139, 2002.
114
053
the Edge City
Look at the size of Yaohan Plaza.

It would not be possible to build
something like this in Manhattan. Where
would you park the cars? A place this
large and sophisticated needs support
from people all over the region. Even
here, the major problem is that there
are only four hundred parking spaces,
and they are so full now on weekends
(Hiroaki Kawai, Yaohan Plazas
spokesman in Edge city; life on the
new frontier Garreau, Joel 1992.)
Hypothesis
Edge cities are necessary for diversification of urban

environments.
Theoretical backup
Edge cities have been criticized by many urbanists
for being part of a problem called suburbia. They
are impersonal, mono functional, car-based, out
of the human scale, not planned and based on the
private property (Garreau, J 1992) that even public
spaces are private (Crawford, Margaret 2002).
Instead of planning to avoid the rise of edge cities,
plan in a model of regional cities network connected
by different means of transport (private and public,
roads and tracks, multi modal-multi scalar) through
a variety of land uses.
LGO
However edge cities are the new engine of the

economy, where most of the jobs are created and
where the opportunity for an affordable house
is (Garreau, J 1992). The edge cities are a new
phenomenon from the last forty years that are
currently evolving, as all the cities are. The edge
cities arose as alternatives to the traditional old
centers, and are located nearby important nodes
of mobility infrastructure (highways), where
the private developers is more decisive than the
involvement of local governments.
These conditions have caused that these places are
commuter destinations, leading to oversaturation of
roads and to low accessibility by public transport,
leading to certain level of segregation and lose of
quality of life (Helling, Amy. 2002).
See also
City as part of the Nature, Clusters, City center,
Decline of diversity, Large scale infrastructure, Infrastructure node as economic attractor, Mixed Use,
Mixed of Land Use, Time scapes, With the Edge Cities
115
typical urban sprawl in the suburbia
References
Altshuler, Alan, and Jos A. Gomez-Ibanez. 1993 Regulation for Revenue: Political Economy of Land Use
Exactions. Washington, DC: Brookings Institution
Cieslewicz, David J. 2002, The Environmental Impacts of Sprawl in Sprawl: causes, consequences and policy
responses. Urban Institute Press, pp. 23-38, 2002
Duany, Andres; Plater-Zyberk, Elizabeth; Speck, Jeff (2000). Suburban Nation: The Rise of Sprawl and the
Decline of the American Dream, North Point Press, 2000
Galster, George; Hanson, Royce; Ratcliffe, Michael R.; Wolman, Harold; Coleman, Stephen; Freihage, Jason
(2000). Wrestling Sprawl to the Ground. Defining and Measuring an elusive concept. Fannie Mae Foundation.
Vol. 12 Issue 4, pp 681-717, 2001
Helling, Amy. 2002, Transportation, Land Use, and impacts of Sprawl on Poor Children and Families in Sprawl:
causes, consequences and policy responses. Urban Institute Press, pp. 119-139, 2002.
Squires, Gregory D. 2002, Urban Sprawl and the Uneven Development of Metropolitan America in Sprawl:
causes, consequences and policy responses. Urban Institute Press, pp. 1-22, 2002
116
054
Measuring sprawl
Sprawl is Continuous low density

residential development on the
metropolitan fringe, ribbon low density
development along major suburban
highways, and development that
leapfrogs past undeveloped land to
leave a patchwork of developed and
undeveloped tracts. (Altshuler and
Gomez-Ibanez 1993)
Hypothesis
In order to produce better living environments it is

necessary to reduce sprawl in the suburbs.
Theoretical backup
Sprawl causes decentralization of urban areas and
raises the inefficiencies in land use which cause the
constant and growing use of automobile as main
mode of travelling, due to longer distances among
different activities (Galster et al. 2001 and Duany
et al. 2000), leading to the loss of natural and farm
land, decaying of environment (Cieslewicz, David J.
2002). and to segregation and poverty over society
(Squires, Gregory D. 2002, Jargowsky, Paul A. 2002
and Helling, Amy 2002).
To prevent the loss of centralization, separation
of different kind of activities in different clusters
far away or inaccessible from each other, spatial
segregation and concentration of poverty it is
important to combine the aforementioned different
dimensions always close to natural environments.
Even when cluster of activities are needed locate
them adjacent, accessible and close from each
other.
LGO
Galster et al. (2001) define sprawl as a pattern of

land use that exhibits low levels of some combination
of eight distinct dimensions:
Density, continuity, concentration, clustering,
centrality, nuclearity, mixed uses, and proximity.
See also
Decline of diversity, District, The cluster, The edge,
Mixed Use, Mixed of Landuse, With the Edge Cities
117
urban plan for the Elbe Island in Hambrug, Germany with many different pilot projects
IBA Hamburg
References
Tjallingii, S. 2000. Ecology on the edge. Landscape and Urban Planning 48
118
055
Pilot projects
Hypothesis
Small projects can make bigger changes.
Theoretical backup
Because of the large scale nature of regional planning
and its complexity, it is hard to solve problems in a
visible and therefore many times perceived effective
way for different actors especially non-experts
actors-. In most of the cases the vision is set for a
long term time span. For this reason many visions
start by realizing small interventions.
Start small with Pilot Projects to make big changes;
because a vision is adaptable and can be implemented
gradually, starting with small interventions often
becomes more effective and powerful through time
as actors and public enthusiasm gains support
LGO
Pilot projects are necessary nowadays due to the

complexity of cities, regions, globalized economy
and fast changing times. Pilot projects make visible
the strengths and weaknesses of how things were
planned/designed, how actors react. If a pilot project
fails something can be learned and corrected, if it is
successful it becomes the basis for policy in larger
scale (Tjallingii, S. 2000).
See also
Cause and effect, Coincidences, Shoreline restoration, Under the bridge, Waterfront, swimming, cause
and effect, land, Shared spaces, Public bicycles
119
map of an integrated public transport system
References
UITP (2007) Tackling Social Exclusion: The Role of Public Transport. Retrieved 22 May 2012 from: http://www.uitp.org/
public-transport/urban/index.cfm
Ward, Gareth; Smith, Sydney; Barron, Jeffrey. (1997). Transport for all. In: A city for all; Valuing Difference & working
with Diversity. (ed.) Beall Jo. Zoed Books Ltd. (1997).
120
056
Public transport for all
Accessibility is important, not only for

its role in facilitating regular and stable
income-earning employment but also
for its role as part of the social capital
that maintains the social relations
forming the safety net of poor people
in many societies, (World Bank; in
Tackling Social Exclusion: The Role of
Public Transport)
Hypothesis
Public transport is decisive for the inclusion of people in

urban life.
Theoretical backup
Living in a city is not only to occupy a space in it, it is
about the inclusion of people in urban life, and public
transport plays a decisive role.
It is documented that many groups have
disadvantages manifested in their lack of means
for mobility being prevented from the potential
economic development opportunities, access to
city services such as health, recreation, culture
and education as well as affect by long time daily
journeys and to the elderly, physical impeded people
or with learning disabilities (UITP 2007; Ward, G et
al 1997).
Inter-district transport system that connects

centralities and support the creation of new ones.
Analyze the existing transport technologies and
if necessary make adaptations for your particular
case.
Set a standard fare paid by all bus users and a full
fare integration between all modes of transport.
Use special systems for the elderly, impaired users
or with learning disabilities.
(Ward, G et al 1997)
LGO
Transport system must be seen as a fundamental

goal for fulfill the inclusion of people in urban life.
Therefore make the choice of the anchor public
transport system as a practical and affordable
solution according to the specific natural, social and
economic context.
Design a transport system based on structural
axes according to the urban setting. Complete the
system with a hierarchy of feeder or interconnecting
subsystem, and design the way the axes function.
See also
Bicing, Bus stations, City center, Flood proof infrastructure, Infrastructural node as economic attractors, Kids and elders in big cities, Shared spaces,
Train station, Water mobility, Public transport for
the Edge City
121
promenade at Benidorm, Spain that integrates public space with coastal water
defence.
References
IBA-Machbarkeitsstudie. Deichpark Elbinsel. IBA Hamburg GmbH 2011.
Warren E. Walker, Allan Abrahamse, Joseph Bolten, James P. Kahan, Odette van de Riet, Matthijs Kok and
Marjan Den Braber (1994). A Policy Analysis of Dutch River Dike Improvements: Trading off Safety, Cost, and
Environmental Impacts. Operations Research Vol. 42, No. 5 (Sep. - Oct., 1994), pp. 823-836. INFORMS.
Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/171542
Nicholls, Robert J., Dr., Senior Lecturer, Middlesex University, School of Geography
and Environmental Management, Queensway, Enfield, Middlesex EN3 4SF, United
Kingdom (1995). Coastal Megacities and Climate Change. Geodournal 3Z3 369-379 1995 (Nov). Kiuwer
Academic Publishers
122
057
Multifunctional water defence
Hypothesis
Water defense systems should allocate different programs

that help to erase its image of hard border and boost new
solutions for complex urban relations.
Theoretical backup
Water defense systems such as dams, dykes or
surge barriers are always standing by themselves
with no other function but keeping water out of
the protected areas. One reason for this is the sole
engineering technical approach of its own safety
design (IBA-Machbarkeitsstudie 2011) as its been
designed by water boards in different countries e.g.
in The Netherlands and Germany-. Yet since the cost
of its construction and maintenance is so high - the
cost of actual construction, including compensation
for land purchased, building materials, and labor
costs and the cost of maintaining the dikes - (Warren
E. Walkel et al. 1994) they should not be understood
and planned as single use infrastructure. They
should be part of an integral spatial planning
becoming part of the programmatic activities within
the city, sharing costs but also possibilities for
developing new urban and landscape environments.
Water defense systems wont be borders borders
for land uses and safety standards- anymore, but
flexible areas for an uncertain future.
When new or existing water defense systems are
being planned or modified, make sure to allocate
different land uses and programs, along, on, in and
within them. Not only include more infrastructure
uses as roads on the top of dykes, or bridges on the
top of dams, but public space, residential, office,
leisure, retail, agricultural among other functions.
And finally make a set of complementary uses to
increase the interest of the city for these peripheral
areas.
LGO
See also
Inside and outside the dikes, Mixed uses, Mix of landuse, The slope, The promenade, Waterside public
spaces, The water city, Public spaces, Vibrant waterplaces
123
process of community engagement in the regeneration of an industrial area.

References
Cuyahoga River community planning organization n.d. Retrieved 17 March 2012 from http://www.
cuyahogariverrap.org/
Michael Carley, Mike Chapman, Annette Hastings, Karryn Kirk, Raymond Young (2000). Urban regeneration
through partnership: A study in nine urban regions in England, Scotland and Wales. Great Britain: Policy Press.
Michael Walzer (1986). Pleasures and Costs of Urbanity, Dissent, Fall, 1986:470-475
Richard Meegan and Alison Mitchell (May 2001). Its Not Community Round Here, Its
Neighbourhood: Neighbourhood Change and Cohesion in Urban Regeneration Policies. Urban Studies, Vol. 38,
No. 12, 21672194, 2001
PPS-Project for Public Spaces (n.d.). Eleven Principles for Turning Public Spaces Into Civic Places. Retrieved 1
May 2012 from http://www.pps.org/reference/11principles/ ; 9 steps to creating a great waterfront. Retrieved
21 March 2012 from http://www.pps.org/articles/stepstocreatingagreatwaterfront/
Smiley, David J. Sprawl and public space: Redressing the mall 2002 National Endowment for the Arts.
124
058
Identity & regeneration
The most powerful resource in turning

around neighbourhoods should be the
community itself. Community
involvement can take many forms:
formal volunteering; helping a
neighbour; taking part in a community
organisation. It can have the triple
benet of getting things done that need
to be, fostering community links and
building the skills, self-esteem and
networks of those who give their time
(SEU, 1998, p. 68; emphasis added in
Its Not Community Round Here, Its
Neighbourhood)
Hypothesis
When a neighborhood has decayed engage community to

regenerate it in order to gain support and prevent its decay
in short time.
Theoretical backup
Many places have flourished in the past because the
activities taking place are important for the time.
However when those activities change of place
or importance the area decay. Such is the case of
harbors, industrial areas, city centres.
When its time to regenerate an urban or natural
area start by defining a shared community vision,
ideals to strive for; Make different actors society,
academies, ONGs, people from all ages - feel part of
the success and daily users of the new environment.
Nowadays planners realized that people cant just

move to a better place and the regeneration of entire
areas has been taking place in many cities around the
world.
For this purpose bottom up strategies are getting
into use more than years ago. The advantage of these
strategies are that once community is engaged,
different alternatives can arise in an exercise of
democracy. Also the commitment from all actors to
preserve it as they are involved in the regeneration
making it part of their lives (Cuyahoga River
community planning organization; PPS-Project for
Public Spaces; Michael Carley et al. 2000; Richard
Meegan and Alison Mitchell 2001). Moreover by
engaging community the possibility of creating Open
Minded Spaces (Michael Walzer 1986) is high. These
spaces are good for civic life as they are places where
a wide variety of people can coexist, and a wide
variety of functions encourage unexpected activities.
Successful different examples are Granville Island,
Vancouver Canada (industrial district), the ongoing
Cuyahoga River, Ohio United States of America
(former harbor).
LGO
See also
Art in public space, Brandscapes, Coincidences,
Community gardens, Historic building, Kate Mossland (-), Respect the local folklore, Street market,
Shoreline restoration, Pilot projects, Under the
bridge, Urban palimpsest, Decline of Diversity, Cultural heritage monuments.
125
Fontana di Trive nowadays a very lively

lankmark in the city of Rome once was the
endpoint of an aqueduct
References
A. Aal Hashemi ( April 2012) . Water fountains in city. Retrieved 25 April 2012 from http://zibasazi.ir/en/
comments-and-article/item/146-water-fountains-in-city
Byoung-E Yang and Terry J. Brown (1992). A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Preferences for Landscape Styles
and Landscape Elements. Environment and Behavior 1992 24: 471
David Macaulay (1974). CITY: a story of roman planning and construction. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
Serkan zer and Neslihan Demircan (2010). Place of fountains in urban space: A case study in Erzurum city,
Turkey. Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment Vol.8 (3&4): 1188-1192. 2010
126
059
Vibrant water places
Hypothesis
In public space water is an important element that can

attract people and shift the perception of the place.
Theoretical backup
Water as urban landscape element has great

conditions to transform a place into a lively public
space and complete the tapestry of different urban
activities. In cold weather, canals, lagoons or lakes
are used as ice rink for skating during winter while
in summertime or warmer weathers it provides of
an attractive place for many leisure activities such
as sunbathing, swimming or just refreshing.
Whenever its possible the use of water, it should

be an important element in the design of a main
square, park, important streets and even part of the
urban fabric. Important activities of public interest
should be located by canals, lagoons, lakes, ponds
and fountains yet this water elements must remain
for public use and well connected to other areas of
the neighborhood, town, village, district or city.
In addition, water in history has been used to set the

importance of places making it a recognizable sign
that goes with important buildings or places (Tidal
basin, constitutions garden pond and reflecting
pool in Washington D.C., Plaza Espanya Barcelona,
The Opera Building Copenhagen, Fontana de Trevi
Rome).
LGO
See also
Mono functional water defense, Mixed uses, Mix of
landuse, The promenade, Waterside public spaces,
The water city, Private landscape resource, Public
spaces, Swimming in the city, The waterfront.
127
space under a bridge transformed into

public space
References
Jing Su (July 2000). Reclaiming residual space from elevated transport infrastructure: Time, Space and
Activity under Chicago Brown line. Thesis (S.M.) Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Urban
Studies and Planning. Massachusetts Institute of Technology 2005
Ian Bourdain (May 2009). Stimulating senses in the public realm. Archfarm Non-periodical fascicles on
architecture, 12, 3-10.
128
060
Bajo puentes
Hypothesis
The space under the bridge shouldnt be residual space.
Theoretical backup
Bridges are a necessary element of the
infrastructure. However the bigger it is, the space
underneath becomes less attractive to the point
of being residual space in the city. This kind of
residual spaces are not properly maintained and
soon becomes territory for gangs, thieves, garbage
dumps; undesirable places.
Therefore use of the space underneath bridges to
allocate activities that cant afford to use other
proper space, or just when there is no room available.
CSG + LGO
On the other hand there are activities that are

difficult to find room for in constrained cities, such
as public space for young people (skaters, graffiti
artists, performers etc.) or commercial activities
that find expensive to rent a proper commercial
space.
There are examples such in Mexico City where skate
parks are using this residual space to transform
the whole environment. Also due to the growing
offer of services from local authorities, the low
budget and lack of available space in governmental
buildings, many spaces under the bridges were used
for allocate almost ephemeral low budget offices.
After this transformation, not only young people
were benefit, but also pedestrians that have to
cross walking through these spaces. Safety and
cleanliness of the place increased, changing the
image of the under the bridge.
See also
Highway program, Identity & regeneration, Pilot
projects, Public spaces
129
Dock in Dordrecht
References
Schaick, J., Klaasen I. [2011] The Dutch Layers Approach to Spatial Planning and Design: A Fruitful Planning
Tool or a Temporary Phenomenon? , European Planning Studies October 2011, Taylor & Francis
130
061
Tempos in a City
[...] to distinguish three layers in the

spatial organisation of the
Laagland: the layer of the substratum,
the layer of the networks and the
layer of the occupation pattern. These
layersknow different times[...]
(Schaick, J., Klaasen I., 2011)
Hypothesis
In a city where there are various tempos, urban rules for

higher dynamic groups are set by the elements with lower
dynamics.
Theoretical backup
A people may change his position very minute;
buildings could exist for 50 years and infrastructure
may exist for more than 100 years in a city. Where
people stay is regulated by buildings and where
buildings situate is decided by infrastructure
network.Urban rules are set by the elements that
transform slower in the light of the impact of
systems with lower dynamic has longer influence
on built environment.
In design context like Dordrecht where nature
dynamic has strong, slow and long-term influence on
the quality of urban environment and life, respecting
nature topography and dynamic is important for
designing elements in urban environment.
For the situation of Dordrecht city centre, where
under deliberated protection, streets and some
buildings exist longer than surrounding environment,
rules for design should then respect these elements.
Additional measures to improve the spatial quality
should not change the street structure; and human
activities is not supposed to bring damage to
historical buildings. For example, adding a flexible
dock in the river is acceptable, while changing a
part of the street into a dock should be carefully
considered.
MDG
See also
Sedimentation; City as a Part of Nature; City Centre;
Timescapes; Urban Palimpsest; The Slope.
131
Markeroog Project
References
Sediment and Suspended Sediment, http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/earthriverssed.html, accessed online May
29th 2012
Markeroog Project, http://www.west8.nl/projects/sustainable_planning/markeroog/, accessed online May
29th 2012
Sedimentation, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedimentation, accessed online May 29th 2012
132
062
Sedimentation
[...] Sedimentation is the tendency for

particles in suspension to settle out of
the fluid in which they are entrained,
and come to rest against a barrier.
This is due to their motion through the
fluid in response to the forces acting
on them: these forces can be due to
gravity, centrifugal acceleration or
electromagnetism.[...]
(Wikipeida)
Hypothesis
Sedimentation is a method to create landscape, protect

and reshape the land.
Theoretical backup
Sedimentation is a strong high dynamic process. it
could play a positive or a negative role according
to the need of projects. In history the soil brought
by sedimentation is used for urban construction.
Reshaping river bank to avoid sedimentation in
waterway with heavy traffic. It is possible for people
to control the process and amount of sedimentation
with the help of technology. Thus, it is possible to
apply sedimentation as a tool to help shape land.
Sedimentation has also been applied as a method
to create landscape. If open some of the small
dykes and allow water to come into the polder, the
high lands are where new sediments will deposit.
Consciously create small high lands in water may
result in a nature boundary shaped by the sediments.
The sediments can be collected and reused or stay
as they are situated.
MDG
See also
Sedimentation; City as a Part of Nature; Shoreline Restoration; Shaping of the Landscape; Urban
Settlements in Meander Rivers; Water Pressure;
Shapes of the River; the Resilient Delta; Sedimentation in the Flood Plain.
133
Plan of Chaining the Water Project
Plan of Amstelveen Water Scheme Project
References
Tjallingii, S. [2002] Ecology on the edge: Landscape and ecology between town and country. Landscape and
Urban Planning 48, pp 103-119
134
063
City as Part of Nature
[...]Whether we like it or not, nature
works, even in the heart of the city.
The workings of rainwater, climate
and soils, the growth of trees, all these
processes are at work in cities and,
therefore, industrial and urban planning,
and, in fact, both culture and cultivation
is working with nature.[...]
(Tjallingii, S., 2002)
Hypothesis
The functioning of city is part of natural mechanism.
Theoretical backup
Traditionally nature is regarded as an object
antagonistic to urban development. There is no clear
boundary between urban and nature. There are
green areas such as parks or lakes in the city; there
are also villages and estates in rural area. Nature
and urban is not necessarily to be clearly divided.
In the emerging discourse, nature is treated as a
physical process and a rudimentary principle for
both urban and rural development.The functioning
of both city and nature could then be considered as
a unityfollowing a same suit of principle. The flows
of water and traffic can perform mainly as the role
to connect different parts of this unity.
Flows of nature elements are important for both
urban and rural part. Take these flows in the nature
process (water flows) and adapt proper urban
functions to them. In the chainning the water
program, the water flows are connected to fresh
water reservior. In the Amstelveen Water Scheme
Project, the flows of water is applied for dealing with
retention water from heavy strom. This retention is
connected with purification lakes and water service
in the city. Meanwhile this lake helps to improve the
environment of neighbourhoods.
MDG
See also
Tempos in a City; Urban Settlements in Meander
Rivers; The City Cross by a River; Shaping of the
Landscape; Purifying Wetlands; Water Detention;
Soft Interventions for Nature Areas; Shoreline Restoration; Adaptive Public Space; Public Transport
for the Age City; The Water City; Green Network
Green Ways; Shapes of the River.
135
Space Syntax Calculation of Integral map of London
References
McAdams M. [2008] Complex Theory and Urban Planning, Urban Affairs and Urban Policy, Volume IX
136
064
Decline of Diversity
[...]Urban environments are complex.

Urban areas are the environment
for multiple activitiessuch as people
working in offices, shopping, purchasing
services, interacting with friends
andfamily, eating at restaurants,
purchasing and constructing structures
(homes, banks, factories, etc.)[...]
(McAdams M. 2008)
Hypothesis
There is a decline of diversity from city centre to periphery

further to rural area.
Theoretical backup
The diversity of user group has influence on the
diversity of landuse and urban typology. Centre of
a city serves various type of people, has different
functions and services. Correspondingly there
is a complexity in urban pattern. Moving to the
residential area and peripheries, the need of people
is not as complex as that of city centre, spatial
pattern are simpler compare to the centre of a city.
Diversity and complexity should be considered when
developing a certain area. In urban regeneration
projects, when accessibility of an area has been
increased, there will be a increase of need for local
services. Correspondingly, when developing a former
industrial zone or a residerntial area, planner should
be prepared for the coming increase in the diversity
of user groups and requirements.
MDG
See also
Distribution of Landuse; City Centre; Kate-Mossland; The Cluster; Measuring Sprawl; Identity and
Regeneration; Public Transport for the Edge City.
137
The Function Mix Triangle and the Distribution of

Seven Types of Urban Areas within the Triangle.
References
Hoek, J. van den [2008] The MXI (Mixed Use Index). An instrument for antisprawl policy? Proceedings of the
44th ISOCARP congress 2008
138
065
Distribution of Landuse
[...]more and more urban projects

can be considered mixed and the
grain sizes of both housing offices and
amenities are diminishing within those
projects, in order to result in lively and
urban environment[...]
(Hoek, J. van den, 2008)
Hypothesis
Different proportions of the distribution of landuse refer to

differnet types of spatial vitality.
Theoretical backup
The MXI model is introduced to measure various

degree of multi-functionality. Different kinds of
distribution of landuse refer to different user groups
and different urban areas. The mixture of lanuse
represents a diversity of need in a place, which has
a direct relation with the spatial vitality of urban
environment.
Before developing certain area, study the current

functional composition and desired mixture of
landuse would help clarify the need for change in
lanuse. Developing a former harbour area into an
office park need to reduce the proportion of housing
and increase the amount of work opportunities in
the area.
A neighbourhood with higher integration of functions

has more public character than a monofunctional
neighbourhood. The centre of a residential area has
different urban vitality from the centre of office
park. And the atmosphere of city centre is different
from the above two types of urban area. This is
related to the distribution of landuse.
Strategies about landuse should respect the

designed type of urban area and also neighbour
areas. The extention of historical city centre should
has similar functional distribution to the type of
historical city centre.
MDG
See also
Decline of Diversity; Trace of Former Infrastructure;
City Centre; Measuring Sprawl; Public Transport for
the Edge City; Wide Sidewalks; Adding Program to
the Highway; the Public Rooftop; Multifunctional
Water Defense; The Promenade.
139
Hiking on Private Landscape in Sweden
References
Peil T. [2003]Landscape, Law and Justice, Proceedings of Landscape, Law and Justice Conference, http://
tallinn.academia.edu/TiinaPeil/Books/258259/Landscape_Law_and_Justice, accessed online May 29th 2012
140
066
Private Landscape Resource
[...]The presentations include studies
relating to common property, rights
of access for recreation in forest
and mountain landscapes, desired
and preserved landscapes, and the
preservation of cultural heritage[...]
(Peil T., 2003)
Hypothesis
If a hill or a lake belongs to one private propery, the owner

can charge a little bit for sharing the landscape with the
general public.
Theoretical backup
People have right to embrace the nature, while
private property of landscape resource should
also be protected. Under the condition that private
profit being protected and respected, private owner
could share the landscape in a way that the general
public has an access to embrace the landscape.
Open high quality private landscape to the public
with a fair price contribute to improving the quality
of life, it would also help contribute to economic
development.
Recreational activities such as hiking and camping is
a method to share landscape. Create a route to the
river will also allow people to get access to nature.
Certain commercial activities such as sport clubs
are possible for sharing nature.
Owner of land sometimes may block the view of
nature landscape such as river or hill with their
buildings and architectonic constructions. In this
condition, the owner of land can provide an visual
corridor to the landscape under the condition that
his privacy is well protected.
MDG
See also
City as Part of Nature; Water Side Public Space;
Soft Interventions in Nature Areas; the Community
Gardens; Guerilla Gardening; Vibrant Water Space;
Share Spaces; Pocket Parks.
141
Water Way connects Rotterdam Sea Port and Dordrecht
Drechtsteden Divided by the River
References
Meyer H. [1999] City and Port. Transformation of Portcities. London, Barcelona, New York, Rotterdam, Utrecht,
International Books
142
067
Large Scale Infrastructure
Hypothesis
Large-scale infrastructure connects regional environment

and divides local urban environment.
Theoretical backup
Large-scale infrastructure such as highway and
waterway is important in the network connecting
urban environment. For example the waterway
surrounding Dordrecht connects the city with the
rest of Rijnmond Metropolis and the Randstad. At
the same time large-scale infrastructure behaves
as the boundary of local environment, in certain
aspect, when situating at the centre of urban region,
it impedes local development.
In the process of regional planning, where largescale infrastructure plays an important role in
the whole system. The location of large-scale
infrastructure need to be carefully chosen. Both rail
track and waterway serve as public transport, thus
the rail stations and ferry stations should have close
connection to urban environment(e.g. city centre).
Thus in design process, it is important to deal with
both sides of such urban environment. For Highway,
the situation is different. They could behave as the
boundary of different urban functions (e.g. industrial
and residential), or situate at the border of urban
fabric, limiting urban expansion.(e.g. A 15)
MDG
See also
Infrastructure as a Carrier of Culture; Trace of Former Infrastructure; Adding Program to the Highway; Flood Proof Infrastructure; Public Transport
for the Edge City; The City Cross by a River; the Waterfront; Water Mobility; Edges; Urban Settlements
in Meander Rivers; Inside and Outside the Dikes.
143
Track of Berlin Wall
References
Language is a carrier of culture, http://discuss.tigweb.org/thread/8612, accessed online May 29th 2012
144
068
Infrastructure as a Carrier of Culture
Hypothesis
Infrastructure is a type of carrier of culture and history.
Theoretical backup
Infrastructure exist longer and change much
slower than the architectures and antiques. It's
long existing character provides an ability to be
recorded in history and 'record' the memeory of a
place. This track of infrastructure itself is a record
of historical development. Streets, waterway, and
a city gate can all be carrier of specific history and
culture.
In frastructure with such kind of historical and
cultural value should be preserved or transformed
with a respective attitude.
The track o railline in former harbor area could be
kept as a cultural issue reminiscing the industrial
character in history after the new plan may has
changed the entire structure of space.
The track of this infrastructure can exist in different
means. The story of Berlin is told by the design of
brick and signs tracking the trace of the Berlin wall.
MDG
See also
Tempos in a City; Trace of Former Infrastructure;
Large Scale Infrastructure; Train Stations; Historic
Buildings; Rural Network; Add Program to the Highway; Infrastructure Node as a Economic Attractor;
Flood Proof Infrastructure; Culture Heritage Monument.
145
Dordrecht 1881
Dordrecht 1910
Dordrecht 2009
Historical Maps of Dordrecht
References
Dordrecht, Ancient Capital of Holland, http://geerts.com/dordrecht.html, accessed online May 29th 2012
146
069
Trace of Former Infrastructure
Hypothesis
The trace of former infrastructure is an important element

in constructing new urban structure.
Theoretical backup
As the backbone of urban structure, infrastructure
plays an important role in urban development.
Its location and track are carefully chosen and is
important to urban life. Trace of infrasturcture
indicates certain spatial order and hierarchy.
Infrastructure such as streets are also related to
the route of basic electricity, gas, and water pipes.
When new plan launch on certain area, the order of
space will also change.
Functionally and conceptually, former infrastructure
plays an important role in the restructuring of the
area. These former infrastructure may be upgraded
or down-graded in the furture plan, but they are still
in their role as a tool to structur the urban space.
When the change is necessary, the trace of former
infrastructure could be reused in new design or
plan. Respecting the former infrastructure in
design process could also in certain aspect reduce
unnecessary cost.
In Dordrecht, major infrastructure is also related to
high land and safe land (e.g. dykes and streets on
high level). It is important to keep these connection
on the safe level for infrastructure. It is also
important to make sufficient use of the high land
for important nodes such as evacuation station and
hospital.
MDG
See also
Tempos in a City; Infrastructure as a Carrier of Culture; Large Scale Infrastructure; Coincidences; Urban Palimpsest; Shapes of the River; the Passage;
Flood Proof Infrastructure; Culture Heritage Monument; Paths; Edges; Green Network Green Ways.
147
Delft City centre
References
Salingaros, A. N., [2000] Complexity and Urban Coherence, Journal of Urban Design, vol.5 2000, page 291-316
Handy S. L., [1996] Urban Form and Pedestrian Choices: Study of Austin Neighborhoods, Transportation
Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board, volum 1552 1996, page 135-144
148
070
City Centre
[...]the right design will encourage

walking, thereby encouraging
interaction and a greater sense
of community and discouraging
automobile dependence.[...]
(Handy S. L., 1996)
Hypothesis
Static and dynamic groups together create a quality of

space in city centre.
Theoretical backup
There are people who own the place in city centre and
stay there; they are the static group. There are also
people who come visit city centre and go back; they
are the dynamic group. Both groups have different
life styles. The city centre is where this different life
styles meet each other. The dynamic group brings in
new elements to local life, while they get to know
the story of local life.The communication between
both groups create a quality of life.
The city centre should provide places with a quality
for static group and dynamic group to meet. A
square with seats is the best expression of this
communicational space.
Catering places such as bar and cafe are where
people would get together and talk. Events such
as open market in NL is a successful example for
this communication. The event itself is a part of the
culture, it is also where people would gather and
communicate. A seat or cafe in the event is where
communication takes place.
MDG
See also
Tempos in a City; Decline of Diversity; Kids and Elders in Big Cities; Clusters; Share Spaces; Public
Transport for All; Brandscapes; Nodes; Timescapes;
Free Wifi Spots.
149
Open Cafe is a type of Semi-Flowing Space
References
Gehl J. [2003] Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space, The Danish Architectural Press
Hoek, J. van den [2008] The MXI (Mixed Use Index). An instrument for antisprawl policy? Proceedings of the
44th ISOCARP congress 2008
150
071
Semi-Flowing Space
[...] mixed-use urbanity can be seen as

the urban patina after numerous steps
of transformation and redevelopment
resulting in richness and diversity[...]
(Hoek, J. van den, 2008)
Hypothesis
Semi-flowing space separate at the same time connect

static space from dynamic space
Theoretical backup
The function and form of semi-flowing space differ

a lot in different discourses. The definition of static
space and dynamic space differ a lot according to
different scales. A square is static space comparing
with the streets next to it; while, it is a dynamic
space when comparing with the cafe next to it.
This semi-flowing space perform as a type of

boundary of an area that would help improve spatial
quality of both static space and dynamic space.
Functions for people to stay and communicate can
play the role of semi-flowing space. Open cafe is a
good example of it.
Static space ensure the efficiency for people to

concentrated; while dynamic space and semiflowing space are necessary for people to meet and
communicate. The need for separation comes from
functional requirement. Separation is necessary
for guarantee the quality of static space, but visual
communication of different type of space is also not
neglectable. Semi-flowing space plays an important
role in connecting & separating the two parts.
An area between building and street can be

regulated for such semi-flowing space and related
functions. This will influence the arrangement of
space of building on the ground floor. Part of ground
floor of building can be opened to public functions or
even open as semi-flowing space.
MDG
See also
Height/Width Ratio; Transparency; Street Market;
Wide Sidewalks; Urban Porticos; the Passage; Traffic Calming; the Promenade; Paths.
151
Rail Line, High Way and Train Station of Dordrecht
Rail Line
Highway
Train Station
References
Dordrecht, Ancient Capital of Holland, http://geerts.com/dordrecht.html, accessed online May 29th 2012
152
072
Train Station
Hypothesis
Train stations in the Netherlands are situated next to the

border of historical city.
Theoretical backup
This is the result of historical development.
Historical city exist longer than train stations. The
complete integrality of historic city indicates that
there is no space for big constructions such as train
stations. Thus by the time train station start to
appear, they mainly stay next to the historical city,
being a part of the city border. After city has been
expanded, the train station is concluded into the
city; and the location of rail line separates the city.
The major residential area (towns) and city centre in
Dordrecht are separated by rail lines. Train stations
then becomes the entrance to the historical part of
city. Train stations bring people from other place to
the city by public means of transport.
Make fully use of the location of train station and
make it a sub-centre of the city. Services for not just
visitors but also local people can be set surrounding
the train station. It is also a good location for offices
to situate. In zoning plan, the train station can be
posit in the centre of an area, which in development
will make similar spatial patterns on both parts of
the station. Then continuous atmosphere created
by spatial experient and the variety of services
and functions on both sides of the train station will
connect the city divided by rail line.
MDG
The design of train station as a local entrance to

the centre. It is not just a trainstation, it also plays
a role as a connector of different parts of the city.
At the same time, the diversity of user group also
indicate that there is a possibility to develop train
stations into a sub-centre.
See also
Distribution of Landuse; Large Scale Infrastructure; Infrastructure Node as a Economic Attractor;
Public Transport for All; Nodes; Free Wifi Spots.
153
Space With Different Height/Width Ratio
References
Luranraison [1979],Machinami no bigaku(Art of Street),Tokyo: Iwanami Shoten
154
073
Height/Width Ratio
Hypothesis
The Height/Width ratio of pedestrian street is closely

related to type of activities happening on streets.
Theoretical backup
Taking H as the height of street facade, D as the
width between facades. The H/D ratio can express
the character of street space.
H/D higher than 2 would contribute to the character
of a narrow street, which is endowed with the
character of the space of flows. H/D equals 1 could
provide certain activities for stay and rest. This ratio
is related with moderate and comfortable street
space in most situations. H/D lower than 0.5 is close
to the character of square space, which is broad
enough to hold activities like street caf, street
arts, and some small sales places.
Relative height/width ratio can help analyzing
character of the streets and neighbourhoods.
Different H/D along the street will help enrich
spatial experience, and spatial quality. Considering
functions of the buildings along the street and
related activities the Height/width ratio could help
create better public environment. For example,
broaden part of a commercial street with retail
stores will change partly the Width, then create a
space for stay. Lower down the H of facade will also
change the impression of space. Trees in the street
sometimes can perform as facades. They divide the
street into different part, for broad streets, this
division will make street space more friendly.
MDG
See also
Semi-Flowing Space; Transparency; Wide Sidewalks; the Waterfront; Sunny and Shaded; the
Promenade; Urban Porticos; Paths; Trees as Comfort Provider; the Chamfered Corner.
155
Commercial Street in Avignon France
Main Square Delft
References
Luranraison [1979],Machinami no bigaku(Art of Street),Tokyo: Iwanami Shoten
156
074
Transparency in the Street Facade
Hypothesis
Ground floor or second floor of buildings with public

function (retail,commercial, public service) should be
visible from the street.
Theoretical backup
Transparency of the facade towards street plays
an important role in enriching the communication
on both sides of the facade. In areas with public
function such as commercial or office zone, this
improves the quality of street as open space. The
light through transparent facades in the evening
help to improve the quality of street space.
Activities such as window shopping enrich street
experience. Visual information perceived from
windows or glass walls is also an important part of
indoor experience. This, in certain aspect, improves
the liveliness of streets.
Being visible through transparent facades is also
a tool for social control, while helps to guarantee
the safety of street. People feel safe because the
space is being watched. In addition people inside
the buildings are able to contemplate humans
interaction in the public space, driving in the desire
to live that outside-experience. On the other hand,
people from the outside can see something is
happening inside the building. This provokes certain
interaction between the interior and the exterior.
Certain regulation of facade transparency towards
street could be set according to different functions
of areas. In commercial streets, transparent
facades help to improve the quality of street space.
However, in residential area, the transparency
sometimes may cause trouble to privacy of a family.
Transparency of street facade is necessary to all
kinds of streets, but the transparent ratio in areas
with mainly private function(housing) should not be
as much as that of public functions(commercial). In
buildings facing public space make use of windows to
encourage interaction between interior and exterior.
In the ground floor locate a store, cafe, restaurant,
etc. to rise the degree of interaction between insideoutside experiences. Windows in commercial street
can be all transparent; while for the residential
area, part of windows (eye level) should be able to
block the view from street.
MDG & LGO
See also
Height/Width Ratio; Urban Porticos; the Promenade;
Wide Sidewalks; Public Spaces.
157
The Wangs Courtyard in Shanxi China
References
Functional Replacement in Historic Buildings, http://www.verylib.com.cn/detail/8/244/505951.htm, accessed
online May 29th 2012
Yang C. [2007] Protecting Historic Building in Modernisation, http://www.cqvip.com/Read/Read.
aspx?id=24963920, accessed online May 29th 2012
158
075
Historic Building
[...] functional replacement is an

important method to preserve the
historic neighbourhood.[...]
(Yang C., 2007)
Hypothesis
Replace functions of residential buildings with historic

value from to public character will help to protect them.
Theoretical backup
Historic buildings, especially residential buildings
with historic value, can not satisfy the requirement
of high indoor spatial quality. Maintance of such
buildings may also cost a large amount of money.
Compare to private property, public property is
able to collect more power to better protect fragile
historic buildings. Open some of the buildings to
public may also help to rouse a public awareness of
protection.
Museums is one typical way for protection. Many
private houses or estates has been changed to
museums.
Adding commercial function, tourism for example,
also helps to protect. The courtyard of Wang family
in Shanxi Province of China has high historical and
cultural value. It has been switched into a popular
tourism spot. The income of tourism provides budget
to maintain the courtyard; while tourism itself is an
activity to rouse public awareness of protection.
Besides tourism, studio, chamber, club, and retail
may also replace the original functions of historic
buildings.
MDG
See also
Infrastructure as a Carrier of Culture; Urban Palimpsest; the Passage; Identity and Regeneration;
Kate-Mossland; Cultural Heritage Monuments;
Landmarks; Brandscapes; Abandoned Buildings.
159
Chart showing Urban density and transport related energy consumption.
References
Newman, P. and Kenworthy, J. (1999), Sustainability and Cities: Overcoming Automobile Dependence, Island
Press, Washington DC.
160
076
High density cities and transportation
Hypothesis
Higher density cities are more sustainable in terms of

energy use for transportation.
Theoretical backup
The area that a high density city covers per person

is smaller in comparison with low density cities,
which results in shorter distances within the
city and therefore a reduction in energy use for
transportation.
By encouraging walking, cycling and the use of

public transport higher density cities can become
even more sustainable in terms of energy use for
transportation.
Higher densities will have more services available

within walking or cycling distance of someones
home or work, which encourages people to walk or
cycle instead of using the car.
MG
Due to a higher density, a public transport system

will be more economically viable and can run on a
higher frequency, which will make it an even more
competitive alternative for the car.
In high density areas with busy roads and traffic
jams, the time efficiency of cars drop and other
means of transportation become more attractive,
like cycling or public transport. For example in
cities like London or the centre of Amsterdam,
transportation by bike is quicker than by car for
certain distances.
See also
Walking and cycling in the city; Public transport
161
Historical map of Rotterdam 1837
References
Rossi, Aldo (1982), The architecture of the city, MIT Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts / London
162
077
Historical urban context
Hypothesis
To design a building or masterplan in a city it is essential

to understand the historical urban context.
Theoretical backup
Cities have developed over many years starting
from small settlements to complex metropolitan
areas. Each city is shaped in a different way due to
historical and contextual influences and has many
different elements and layers, which all have a
relation with each other in some way. Together
they form the complex system of the city. If an
element in the city changes, this will have a certain
implication on the complex system and therefore it
is crucial to understand the implications of a new
building or area on the structure of the city. An
analysis of the historical urban development will
give an understanding of these elements, layers and
the structure of the city and form the basis for the
design of a building or masterplan to establish the
connection to this city and become part of the city.
By analysing the historical context with all its
different layers and elements the structure of
the city will be understood and can be taken into
account in the design. Examples of these layers
and elements are street patterns, flows of traffic,
public and private space, building shapes, functions
and typologies, materiality, ecological structure.
The importance of each element for the design will
vary depending on the context, circumstances and
the requirements of the design.
MG
See also
Public Space; Urban Palimpsest; Historic building;
Cultural heritage monuments
163
Piazza del Campo, Siena, Italy
References
Meyer, H. (2006), Het ontwerp van de openbare ruimte, SUN.
Mayor of London (2009), Londons Great Outdoors, A Manifesto for Public Space
164
078
Public spaces
Hypothesis
Public spaces should invite people to spend time in them to

bring the city to life.
Theoretical backup
Public spaces are the physical network of the city as

they provide access to buildings or other elements
of the city, which is essential for the existence
of the city. Besides the physical network, public
spaces also form the social and cultural network
of the city. They give inhabitants of the city the
opportunity to meet each other, encourage cultural
and commercial activity and contribute to forming
communities and neighbourhoods, which are the
pillars of social and cultural life in a city.
To strengthen the social and cultural network in

the city public spaces like squares and parks should
invite people to spend time in them by:
A strong social and cultural network in the city

will have a positive influence on the development
of the city. For example a lively city centre will
attract more inhabitants as well as visitors, which
will contribute to the economical development
of the city and enhance the experience of the city.
Buildings and public spaces form the city, people
will bring the city to life.
-
initiating possible activities for certain age
groups
making them feel safe at all times of the day
-
giving them a comfortable size, shape and
proportion
-
making them aesthetically pleasing, for

example by natural vegetation and street
furniture
making them accessible for pedestrians,

bicycles and public transport
establishing connections with surrounding

public spaces and buildings
MG
See also
Mixed use; Walking and cycling in the city; Edges in
the city; Trees in the city; Farming in the city; Adaptive public space; City centre; The promenade; Vibrant water places.
165
Amsterdam city centre with residential units above commercial units.
References
Jacobs, Jane (1961), Death and life of great American cities, Random House, New York.
166
079
Mixed use
Hypothesis
A mixture of uses within a development will enhance the

livelihood of the area.
Theoretical backup
Historically cities and neighbourhoods have
developed as mixed use environments as walking
was the most important means of transportation
which made it essential to have different uses
close to each other. This changed as a result of the
industrialisation period when living and working
started to separate for health reasons and this
was even further stimulated by the introduction
of the car and the modernist movement at the
beginning of the 20th century. Separation of uses,
which result in purely residential or commercial
areas, are seen as monotone and repetitive and
are often the reason why areas are experienced as
uncomfortable or unsafe at certain times of the day,
for example a shopping street after closing time.
At the end of the 20th century most industries
have drastically reduced pollution, therefore the
need for separation of uses is no longer valid and
neighbourhoods can become livelier again by a
variety of uses.
-
it will contribute to local activity in
neighbourhoods, like local shops or restaurants,
which have the benefit of having customers living
around them, while residents have the benefit of
having shops or restaurant within walking distance.
-
mixed uses will create a variation and
diversity in the townscape in comparison to purely
residential or commercial areas, which will enhance
the experience of the area.
In areas where there is demand for other uses
than residential (usually higher density areas),
it is key create lively environments by mixing
residential developments with other communal and
commercial uses, like offices, shops, restaurants
and public buildings.
MG
A mixture of uses within an area will enhance the

livelihood of the area as:
-
areas will be actively used throughout the
day and night by different groups of people, for
example workers during the day and residents
during the evenings and weekends.
See also
Public spaces; Edges in the city; Public transport;
Typology variation in neighbourhoods
167
Two different communal residential entrances of Piraeus in Amsterdam by Christian Rapp.
References
Slessor, Catherine (2002), Contemporary doorways: Architectural Entrances, Transitions and Thresholds,
Mitchell Beazley
168
080
Building entrances
Hypothesis
Entrances are an invitation to enter the building.
Theoretical backup
The entrance of the building is an important reference

point of the building as it will have to guide visitors
and occupants into the building. Emphasizing the
entrance will contribute to the readability of the
building and guide visitors naturally to the entrance.
It is for example much more difficult to understand
a building if the entrance is not clear.
The design of entrances should be considered

carefully in the design of the building and relate to the
identity of the building. For example by emphasizing
them in different ways by using a different material,
positioning the entrance in a different plane than the
faade, using a double height space or involving the
landscape around it (for example Versailles uses the
landscape to introduce the entrance extensively).
The design of the entrance will have an impact on

the expectations people have when they enter the
building and therefore it is important to consider
the identity of the building and its occupant.
For example the use of individual entrances to
residential buildings is preferred above communal
entrances, so that people can identify themselves
with their front door and it feels like coming home.
Communal entrances of larger residential buildings
are important reference points for occupants and
visitors as it will form the first and only expectations
of home from the outside and should therefore be
designed carefully.
MG
See also
Public Spaces; Mixed use; Materiality; Detailing;
Edges of the city
169
The Great Court of the British Museum in London.
References
Andersen, Marilyne; MIT Daylighting Lab; Available at http://daylighting.mit.edu (visited 05/06/2012).
170
081
Natural lighting
Hypothesis
The use of natural lighting in buildings can enhance

experience of the space.
Theoretical backup
Light allows us to experience architecture as
it provides us with the means to reveal spaces
and volumes. Natural light has the benefit above
artificial light that is has a proven positive impact
on peoples mood, health and productivity. Natural
light is part of our biological needs and therefore
people are naturally drawn towards places with
lots of natural light. This effect can be used to
enhance the experience of spaces by directing the
natural light into the space and therefore draw
peoples attention towards the lit area. Compared
to artificial light, natural light will create a much
livelier setting due to the changes of the weather,
the season and the time of the day. Another positive
benefit is that natural lighting can reduce the use of
artificial lighting and is therefore more sustainable.
When designing a building the quality and levels of
natural light within the building will be influenced
by:
-
The shape of the building. For example a
shallow floorplan will have shorter distances to the
windows and therefore higher lighting levels than a
deeper floorplans.
-
The orientation of the building and the type
of spaces. For example an artists studio will benefit
from north light and east light is generally desirable
in bedrooms.
-
The size, position and orientation of the
windows in relation to the inside space. For example
a rooflight has a different effect on the space than a
window in the wall.
The amount of daylight will need to be controlled to
avoid too much glare and balance the heat gain and
loss of the building.
MG
See also
Materiality
171
The use of different materials
References
Weston, Richard (2003), Materials, Form and Architecture, Laurence King Publishing, London.
172
082
Materiality
Hypothesis
The use of exposed materials like timber, brick, concrete,

stone or steel in buildings will create richness in colours,
shapes and textures and enhance the experience of the
building/space.
Theoretical backup
Each material has its own colour, texture, shape and

technical qualities; together they form the unique
character of a material. By exposing the material
these qualities will become part of the visual,
tactonical and acoustical experience of the building
or space. Which materials are used and how they
are used will have an impact on the character of the
building or space and can therefore strengthen the
concept of the design. For example timber with its
natural colour differences will give a space a warm
character and exposed steel has a more industrial
character.
The different qualities of each material should be

valued and used to strengthen the concept of the
design and form the character of the building or
space. A combination of materials can also enhance
each other, but should be carefully selected.
MG
See also
Building Entrances; Natural lighting; Detailing.
173
Detail of a stairwell
References
Weston, Richard (2003), Materials, Form and Architecture, Laurence King Publishing, London.
174
083
Detailing
Hypothesis
Architecture is in the details of the building.
Theoretical backup
A well designed detail should have the following
characteristics:
-
Functional; there should be no compromises
to the functionality of a detail, for example the
external envelop should be waterproof and a door
should be able to open.
The architectural idea on the scale of the building
should be translated into the details, in this way it
will support and even strengthen the architectural
idea.
MG
-
Constructional; you should be able to build it
without too many difficulties.
-
Sustainable; the lifetime of the detail should
be maximized and the use of sustainable materials
considered.
-
Aesthetical; the appearance and impact of
the detail on the overall building should be taken
into account. For example the relation of certain
elements to each other should be considered.
By concealing, exposing or emphasizing certain
elements of the building a certain language of the
building will be formed. A concealed or exposed
rainwater pipe will give a completely different
appearance to the faade of the building.
See also
Materiality
175
Oxford Circus in London before and after the new pedestrian crossing (2010).
References
Gehl, Jan (2010), Cities for people, Island press, page 10.
176
084
Hypothesis
Improving conditions for pedestrians and cyclists will

bring the city to life.
Theoretical backup
The invasion of cars into the city has contributed to
the gradual breakdown of the opportunities of city
space to function as a meeting place, as for example
shown in cities in the South of the US like Houston.
When transportation is mostly by car it prevents
people to meet spontaneously and be invited to
become part of the public space.
Create pedestrian and cyclist friendly environments,
like for example widened pavements, cycle
lanes and car-free areas. This will attract more
pedestrians and cyclists and invite people to be part
of activities in the city. Car free areas will stimulate
other activities to flourish which contribute to a
lively public realm, like promenades.
When the conditions for pedestrians and cyclists

improve, more people will start walking and cycling
(as proven in Copenhagen). When more people
are walking or cycling the feeling of security will
increase and attract even more people, as people
will naturally seek other peoples presence. In this
way public space will start to flourish and create a
lively place.
MG
See also
High density and transportation; Public spaces; Bike
sharing program.
177
A shopping street in Leeds, England.
References
178
085
Edges of the city
Hypothesis
Open and active edges in the city will contribute to a lively

urban space.
Theoretical backup
The edges of the city, in particular the lower floors
of buildings, define the urban space of the city as
they are the key elements you see and experience
when moving through the city. This is where people
enter and leave buildings and where inside and
outside space meets each other. Open and active
edges with many entrances and large windows
provide an interesting view for people passing by,
who are more likely to slow down and stop and will
therefore have an opportunity to interact with the
inside of the buildings or the urban space around
them. This will contribute to contact between people
and a lively urban space. Closed and inactive edges
stimulate people to walk faster, prevent people to
interact with the inside of the buildings and reduce
the opportunities to initiate activities in the urban
space. For example a study in the shopping streets
of Copenhagen (2003) shows that the activity level
in front of active facades is seven times greater
than in front of passive facades. This increase of
activities was not just related to shopping, but also
included people talking on the phone or tying their
shoe laces.
To initiate open and active edges the design of the
faades is crucial. Lots of entrances and large
windows will create places where the inside and the
outside space meet each other, create connections
and initiate activities. It will also enhance the
attractiveness of the facades and give pedestrians
something interesting to look at.
MG
See also
Public Spaces; Mixed use; Building entrances; Human scale; The window towards public space.
179
Market in Brick Lane, London.
References
Gehl, Jan (2010), Cities for people, Island press, page 195 & 198.
180
086
Human scale
Hypothesis
Designing on a human scale is critical to create a great

living environment for people.
Theoretical backup
There are different scales on which designers have

to operate. Roughly there are three scale levels, the
larger scale of the city, which is the city as it is seen
from an aerial view showing functions and traffic
connections. The middle scale is showing how
buildings and city spaces are organised. And last but
least the small scale, which is the scale at which
people experience the city, the city at eye level.
By starting the design with the small scale and

working up through the scales will allow designers
to use the people in the city as a starting point and
not the functions and traffic connections of the city.
Ideally the different scales should continuously be
treated at the same time, so that they all get equal
attention in the design
The small scale is often neglected by designers with

cities like Braslia or Dubai as a result, where the
city looks great from above, but walking through
the city as a pedestrian the public spaces are too
large and uninviting for people to actually use them.
MG
See also
Edges of the city, Urban furniture distribution
181
Earls court station in London.
References
182
087
Public transport
Hypothesis
A public transport system will create activity spots within

the city.
Theoretical backup
A public transport system will draw people towards
a certain spot like a metro station and create flows
of movement by people walking towards this spot
which will intensify as you get closer to the spot.
This spot and its direct environment will become an
interesting area for public and commercial activities
as many potential customers will pass by or wait
for other people to meet. For example in London you
will see that the flow of pedestrians increases the
closer you get to an underground station as well
as the level of activity as the number of shops and
places to drink and eat increases. Compared to cities
where the main means of transportation is by car
there will be more opportunities for activity spots
due to increased pedestrian activity around public
transport nodes. Although cars have a similar flow
of movement around for example large intersections
they usually dont engage with city life in the way
pedestrians do when they interact with each other.
Except for the drive-in restaurant.
A well used public transport system will intensify
pedestrian traffic around public transport nodes
and create an opportunity for public and commercial
activities to take place.
MG
See also
Public space; Mixed use; Infrastructure as an economic attractor; Train stations; Transport for all.
183
Beestenmarkt in Delft
References
The City of New York and Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg (2007), Plan NYC: A Greener, Greater New York.
184
088
Trees in the city
Hypothesis
Trees enhance public space in an aesthetic and

sustainable way.
Theoretical backup
Trees in the city have many advantages besides the
fact that they are aesthetically pleasing elements,
like for example providing shade in the summer
months, cooling and cleansing the polluted air of
the city and creating a feeling of recreation. Trees
can define and shape public spaces, for example
trees along boulevards which underline the linear
sequence or trees in a public square which break up
the space as at the Beestenmarkt in Delft.
Designing and planting trees in public spaces are
an effective way to enhance public spaces and
contribute to the sustainability of the city.
MG
Due to their ability to absorb carbon dioxide trees

contribute to the sustainability of the city. For this
reason New York City is planting one million new
trees in public spaces across the city
See also
Public spaces; Green roof; Farming in the city; Trees
as comfort providers
185
An extensive green roof in the city
References
Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRFC), http://www.greenroofs.org/index.php/about-green-roofs/green-roofbenefits (visited 04/06/2012)
186
089
Green roofs
Hypothesis
Green roofs improve the sustainability and aesthetics of

the urban landscape.
Theoretical backup
Besides the benefits of green roofs to individual
buildings, like for example improving the aesthetics
of the building and the insulation value of the
building, green roofs have even greater benefits for
the city itself:
-
Green roofs improve the aesthetics of the
urban roofscape and could create a recreational
outdoor space or a place for agriculture in the city
when using an intensive green roof.
-
Green roofs absorb rainwater and form a
buffer for the drainage system of the city, which
will reduce the required capacity of the system.
They also act as a natural filter for rainwater which
happens to run off.
The benefits of green roofs on the scale of the city
should be considered when designing or refurbishing
roofs of buildings. The disadvantages of green roofs
like higher initial costs and the higher maintenance
costs should be easily outweighed by the long term
benefits for the building itself, like increasing the
life expectancy of roof membrane and reducing the
demands for heating and cooling of the buildings due
to the higher insulation value and additional mass of
the building and the benefits for the sustainability
of the city itself.
MG
-
Plants are able to cool cities in hot summer
days and reduce the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect
through their daily dew and evaporation cycle. Green
roofs are also forming a good alternative for the
black rooftops, which create the hottest surfaces
of the city.
-
Green roofs improve the air quality as the
plants on the roof capture airborne pollutants and
filter noxious gases.
-
Green roofs increase biodiversity in the city
by their variety of plants and creating a habitat for
wildlife in the city like insects and birds.
See also
Farming in the city, The slope
187
A roof farm in New York City
References
*Steel, C. (2009), Hungry City How food shapes our lives, Vintage Publishing
**Smit, J. (2001), Urban Agriculture: Food, Jobs and sustainable cities, The Urban Agriculture Network, Inc.
Chapter 1, page 6.
188
090
Farming in the city
Hypothesis
By introducing farming into cities again, the city will

become a healthier, greener and more sustainable living
environment.
Theoretical backup
Due to the industrial revolution the current food
supply chain has been disconnected from the city
and its inhabitants. Efficient transport systems and
preserving methods have allowed food production to
be situated far outside the city and often out of the
country, with the result that the food supply chain
has become invisible for people is being controlled
by large multinational companies. Although this
current food supply chain with its intensive farming
is cost effective, it also produces a lot of waste,
pollution, resources, diseases and health issues like
pesticides and overuse of antibiotics.*
Neglected external spaces, roofs and empty
buildings can become part of the city again by using
them for growing our own food. This will re-create
the connection between the inhabitants of the city
and their food and improve the environment of the
city by creating more green areas.
MG
These disadvantages could be overcome by

establishing a local small scale self-reliant food
production chain in the city managed by inhabitants.
This will not only result in a reduction in resources
for transportation, distribution and preservation, but
also avoid the negative effects of intensive farming
and establishing a healthier environment and making
the food supply chain visible and controllable again.
Urban agriculture will also have a positive impact
on the city itself. It will dispose much of a cities
organic solid and liquid waste by transforming them
in a resource for agriculture. It will contribute
to improving the urban soil, water, air, and living
environment while closing the urban open-loop
ecological system of resources in, wastes out.**
See also
Green roofs, Communal gardens
189
The Ruins of Detroit
References
Lefebvre H., 1968, Dialectical materialism, in Sabin Bieri, Contested spaces: Squatting and the construction
of the urban in Swiss Cities, Geogournal ed. 58, 2003, Kluver Academiv Publishers, Netherlands, p. 2072015.
Angus, I., 2001. Emergent publics: an essay on social movements and democracy. Winnipeg: Arbeiter Ring.
Mouffe, C., 1992. Democratic citizenship and the political community. In: C. Mouffe, Dimensions of radical
democracy: pluralism, citizenship, community. London: Verson.
190
091
Abandoned Buildings
Beyond the mere idea of integration

and heterogeneity, an urban setting
implies the possibility of
innovative projects aimed at
overcoming so-called alienated
living- spaces. (Lefebvre,1968)
Hypothesis
Abandoned Buildings should be given to people or groups

of people that can use them either for housing, for cultural
or for social uses.
Theoretical backup
Abandoned Buildings are empty buildings that fell
into disrepair and eventual abandonment, losing
their prior use. These buildings can be old mansions,
housing estates, hotels, landmarks constructed for
uses of commerce like beacon of power resulting
in failure. Many abandoned buildings have been
squatted from people for a variety of reasons such
as housing, protest, poverty or recreation.
Abandoned Buildings under squatting or legally
given to groups of people get refurbished and
acquire a new use from the people who use them.
Most of the times these people are homeless
people, artists or social servers, organizations
and volunteers helping weaker social categories
of the population.
This perspective of citizenship emphasizes the

active, historical, and contested dimensions of
democracy, where questions of inclusion have
the potential to open spaces for radically altering
political identities and practices
(Mouffe 1992, Angus 2001).
OB
See also
Historic Buildings, Trace of Former Infrastructure.
191
Carthagene, Spain
References
Sennett R. (1992) The Fall of Public Man, New York, Norton
192
092
Art in the public Space
The communicational meaning of

public space tends to modify itself in
new
urbanterritories.
The nature of messages and the
appropriation of public space, place the
question of the meaning. In a graffiti we
can recognize the attributes of space as
a gesture to signal, as to leave a mark
of individuality.
(Richard Sennet, 1992)
Hypothesis
Once placed in the public space, art should be perceived

and work in the space that is emerged and deal with the
local in commitment to freedom and identity. It cannot be
moved or sold as happens in galleries.
Theoretical backup
Public art in general sense, is the art placed in public

space.
The social dimension of art makes it popular and
communicative. In many cities
Motives given to artists or street artists to

produce art in contact with the loci and the
public- in the public space.
Public art has been accepted from the majority of

the society and people did not
Feel that something imposed in their space without
taking into account their needs. Example of that are
the paints in the Favela Morro Da Providencia, Rio de
Janeiro from JR artistphotographer.
OB
See also
Color in Public Space; Identity and regeneration.
193
Bike Station
References
Bicing in Barcelona, https://www.bicing.cat
Mitchell J. William, Sustainable Urban Mobility through Light Electric Vehicles, Ecological Ubanism, Harvard
University, Germany, Lars Mller Publishers, p.383
MIT Media Laboratory,2008, Mobility on Demand Future Transport in Cities, Massachusetts, MIT, p.12
194
093
Bike Sharing Program
The Bicycle is an extraordinary elegant

and efficient vehicle type with a tiny
footprintThe problem with bicycles on
urban streets and roads exists because
this thoroughfares are predominantly
occupied by much larger, heavier, faster
vehicles.(William J. Mitchell)
Hypothesis
Cities should introduce Bike Sharing Programs as modes

of public transport using a large-scale public bicycle
sharing system.
Theoretical backup
A Bike Sharing Program provides a bicycle sharing
system- Utility Cycling, which enables convenient
point-to-point travel within urban areas and extent
availability to those who cannot or don t want to use
their own vehicles.
Large scale systems racks of bicycles VlibParis,
VlovLyon, Bicing in Barcelona and Bixing in Montreal,
are spread around the city such as potential users
can borrow a bicycle from one destination and
drop it off to the rank near the next destination of
their preference. (MIT Media Laboratory)
The bike- sharing programs run by Municipalities.
have several social, economic and environmental
benefits. Cycling, when implemented, provided a
sustainable public transport system by improving
the quality of life and public health of the citizens,
It can also reduce traffic congestion, air pollution
and improve road traffic safety.
Pick up and drop off points should be evenly spaced,

at intervals determined by comfortable walking
distance, and varied in size according to surround
population density.
OB
See also
Public Transport for all, Pilot Projects, The promenade.
195
Atlantic Wall
References
Ricoeur P. ,1961, Universal Civilization and National Cultures, History and Truth, Illinois, Northwestern
University Press,), p. 276.
Konstadinides A.,1972 - Vessels for Life or The problem of a genuine architecture, Agra Publications, Greece
196
094
Cultural Heritages Monuments
Every culture cannot sustain and absorb

the shock of modern civilization. There is
the paradox: how to become modern and
to return to sources; how to revive an old,
dormant civilization and take part in
universal civilization. . . .
(Paul Ricoeur 1961)
Hypothesis
The Cultural Heritage s monuments should be preserved

as livable and invaluable testimonies of our historical
memory. The need for protection, preservation,
development is imperative in the contemporary globalized
Theoretical backup
Cultural Heritages Monuments are monuments /

artifacts bearing the stamp of history, interwoven
with the neighboring buildings, with the natural or
near-urban environment, a pot of life that can
be whether a simple house/entity or an ensemble,
a residential complex, a city, a theater, a church,
a fortress, a landscape, created in a historical
moment expressing the dominant style. Since their
construction became bodies of memory (embodied
collective/mineralized memory) according to their
uses (function and meaning) in the passage of time
and their historical, economic, social and cultural
transformations. (Konstadinides Aris, 1972)
Possibilities for the protection of historical

buildings that coexist harmoniously with the
urban fabric in a sustainable balance of past
and future, old and modern, time and space to
achieve harmony adapted to the demands of
modern life. In order to achieve an aesthetic and
historical continuity we have to know in advance
the purpose and objective of the intervention that
will be determined by the new or the old use of the
monuments.
Nazi s Atlantic Wall constitutes an historical

landmark of the Cultural Heritage renovated for
educational purposes.
OB
See also
Urban Palimpsests, Urban Porticos, Historical Buildings, Infrastructure as Carrier of Culture, Trace of
Former Infrastructure, Identity and regeneration,
Trace of former infrastructure.
197
Sternschanze, Hamburg, Germany
References
Sassen S., 1997, Ethnicity and Space in the Global City: A New Frontier ?, Barcelona, Ciutat i immigraci City and immigration, (Urbanitats 2)
Lynch, K., 1960, The Image of the City, 19th ed., Massachusetts: The MIT Press, p. 47
198
095
Districts
Politically it is of central importance to be

able to document the economic viability
of the working-class uses of 14th Street
and the desirability of social and income
diversity. Gentrification and offices are
not the only viable and desirable options
for these types of districts. Workingclass uses of the street, from shops,
to warehousing, meat packing, and
manufacturing, are viable whether in New
York City, London, Frankfurt, or any of
todays major cities.
(Sassen Saskia, 1997)
Hypothesis
Districts have their own internal quality which is

consisted by natural features such as symbols, types
and construction structures, land uses, the residents, the
degree of preservation and the topography.
Theoretical backup
According to Lynch districts are areas with

perceived internal homogeneity- Districts are the
medium-to-large sections of the city, conceived
of as having two-dimensional extent, which the
observer mentally enters inside of, and which are
recognizable as having some common, identifying
character. Always identifiable from the inside, they
are also used for exterior reference If visible from
the outside. Most people structure their city to some
extent in this way. (Kevin Lynch,1960)
Forms of organization of the city in sub-entities

with an inner quality and inner diversity.
E.g.- center, midtown, its in-town residential areas,

organized industrial areas, train yards, suburbs,
college campuses etc.
OB
See also
Street Markets, The cluster, Measuring sprawl.
199
Tel Aviv Seashore
References
Haken H., Portugali J., 2003, The face of the city is its formation, Journal of Environmental Psychology, ed.
23, p.396
200
096
Edges
Quite generally, broken symmetries may

help our orientation. This is particularly
true for seashores, such as in Tel- Aviv
that constitute a boundary line for the
city and also helps our orientation with
respect to direction.
(Herman Haken, Juval Portugali, 2003)
Hypothesis
Edges are linear elements that the observer does not

perceive as axes but as the borders or boundaries between
two kinds of zones, linear breaks in continuity.
Theoretical backup
According to Lynch edges are the dividing lines
between districts. They are lateral references
rather than coordinate axes.. These edge elements,
although probably not as dominant as paths, are
for many people important organizing features,
particularly in the role of holding together
generalized areas, as in the outline of a city by water
or wall. (Kevin Lynch,1960)
As edges we can consider the barriers that
separate one area from another but also the
seams or boundaries where two regions or two
spaces are joined with each other.
E.g.- shores, railroad cuts, edges of development,

walls...
OB
See also
Urban Settlements in Meander Rivers, Waterside
Public Space, Add Program to the highway, Measuring sprawl, Large Scale Infrastructure, Trace of
Former Infrastructure, The city crossed by a River,
The waterfront, The promenade.
201
London s Landmarks
References
Burdett R., 2005, Changing Values, Public life and urban spaces, London, Urban Age Conference Publications,
LSE
202
097
Landmarks
The simple act of reuniting one side of

Trafalgar Square to the National Gallery,
and opening a grand staircase to the
north, has redefined the sense of both
enclosure and permeability to one of
Londons iconic urban landmarks. Today,
tourists and Londoners alike use the space
as a stage-set of theatre and reality.
(Burdett Richard 2005)
Hypothesis
The landmarks are material elements that their scale

varies from different distances and their form is
characterized by uniqueness.
Theoretical backup
According to Lynch a landmark is a point of
reference- Type of point-reference, in which the
observer does not enter in, is external. They are
usually self-referenced defined physical objects.
Buildings that are distinguished from all other
buildings and can be easily memorized and
recognized.
(Kevin Lynch,1960)
E.g.- building, sign, store, or mountain

The landmarks become more easily identifiable if
they have a clear form; if they contrast with their
background; and if there is some prominence of
spatial location.
Their use involves the singling out of one element
from a host of possibilities.
Some landmarks are distant ones, typically seen
from many angles and distances, over the tops of
smaller elements, and used as radial references.
OB
See also
Brandscapes, Urban Palimpsests, Urban Portigos,
Vertical references, Pilot Projects, Historic Buildings.
203
Waterloo Station, London
References
204
098
Nodes
The transition from one transportation

channel to another seems to
mark the transition between major
structural units. (Kevin Lynch,1960)
Hypothesis
Nodes are strategic focal points, meeting points,

connecting roads and points of concentration of certain
features.
The nodes besides point- elements can also be areas or
Theoretical backup
According to Lynch Nodes are points, the strategic

spots in a city into which an observer can enter, and
which are the intensive foci to and from which he is
traveling. They may be primarily junctions, places of
a break in transportation, a crossing or convergence
of paths, moments of shift from one structure to
another. Or the nodes may be simply concentrations,
which gam their Importance from being the
condensation of some use or physical character,
as a street-corner hangout or an enclosed square.
Some of these concentration nodes are the focus
and epitome of a district, over which their influence
radiates and of which they stand as a symbol. They
may be called cores. Many nodes, of course, partake
of the nature of both junctions and concentrations.
(Kevin Lynch,1960)
The scale of observation plays an important role. At

national or international level the entire city can be
regarded as a node.
E.g.- primary junctions, places of a break in

transportation, a crossing or convergence of paths,
moments of shift from one structure to another.
OB
See also
Traffic Calming, The Cluster, Public Transport for
the Edge Cities, City Center, Train Station .
205
The Highline, New York
References
Dauenhauer, Bernard and Pellauer, David, Paul Ricoeur, The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Summer
2011 Edition), Edward N. Zalta (ed.),
206
099
Paths
The space of experience is made up

of past natural or cultural events that
a person remembers or is influenced
by in the present. It is the past now
made present and thus it serves as the
point of departure for a new decision or
action. The horizon of expectation, on
the other hand, is the unfolding of the
array of projects that one can now
undertake, of paths that one can now
begin to explore on the basis of this
space of experience.
(Paul Ricoeur)
Hypothesis
The paths are channels through which the observer moves

occasionally, out of habit or dynamically. All elements of
the urban environment are arranged in relation to these
axes but their importance varies according to the degree of
intimacy with the city.
Theoretical backup
According to Lynch, paths are familiar routes the

channels along which the observer customarily,
occasionally, or potentially moves. They may be
streets, walkways, transit lines, canals, railroads.
For many people, these are the predominant
elements in their image. People observe the city
while moving through it, and along these paths the
other environmental elements are arranged and
related. (Kevin Lynch,1960)
E.g.-streets,
railroads
walkways,
transit
lines,
Important links between two different conditions

so that the element of surprise could operate.
canals,
OB
See also
Wide Sidewalks, Add Program to the Highway, Passage, Promenade, Height/Width Ratio, Trace of Former Infrastructure, Semi-flowing space.
207
Pocket Park in
References
Blake A., Pocket Parks,
ULR:http://depts.washington.edu/open2100/pdf/2_OpenSpaceTypes/Open_Space_Types/pocket_parks.pdf
Newcomb T., 30 July 2011, Chasing Pavement: Why cities are big in pocket parks,
TIMES magazine.
Roger J., Nov 200, Small Spaces Make a Difference Landscape Australia 1999, v.21, n.4 (84), p.292-294
Seymour W., 1969, Small Urban Spaces. The Philosophy, Design, Sociology and Politics of Vest- Pocket Parks
and Other Small Urban Open Spaces. New York University Press: New York.
208
100
Pocket Parks
Their presence should be felt

everywhere throughout the area on
the way to work, on the way home, as
well as during the lunch hour. If such
a system of parks is to succeed, there
must be proximity, as well as profusion
one such park for each square block.
(Whitney North Seymour 1969).
Hypothesis
Pocket parks should provide greenery, a place to sit

outdoors, and sometimes a childrens playground for the
people of the neighborhood.
Theoretical backup
A pocket park is a small park accessible to the
general public. Pocket parks can be urban, suburban
or rural, and can be on public or private land. They
may also be created as a component of the public
space requirement of large building projects.
Philadelphia was one of the first cities to begin
developing pocket parks within its neighborhoods.
These were constructed on the site of vacant or
abandoned lots that had become eyesores and were
located in low-income areas that needed local open
space in addition to the limited facilities already
available. These parks involved the community
in their design and construction and had a specific
focus on childrens play areas.
Pocket parks an operate as bioclimatic enclaves in
the urban tissue and simultaneously as intermediate
social spaces especially in areas with high density.
Pocket parks are frequently created on a single
vacant building lot or on small, irregular pieces of
land.(Newcomb ,2011)
Many pocket parks are the result of community

groups, private entities or foundations reclaiming
these spaces for the benefit of the local
neighborhood.
OB
(Jasprizza Roger, 2000)
See also
Kids and Elders in Big Cities, Sunny and Shaded, Water Detention, Public Rooftops, Private Landscape
Resources.
209
The Finger plan-1947 in the inner city of Copenhagen
References
Portaliou E., 30 Apr 2007,Urban Redesign in Athens and the Region of Attica, Monumenta Magazine.
Schwartz M., 2010, Ecological Urbanism and the Landscape, Ecological Ubanism, Harvard University, Germany,
Lars Mller Publishers, p.524
210
101
Green networks/Greenways
As architects, learning to design with

green in mind is core to what we do as
a profession. (Martha Schwartz)
Hypothesis
Green should penetrate cities like green fingers, to

inundate and fill the open spaces so that the open surfaces
do not be isolated and fragmented.
Theoretical backup
Green spaces operated as functional components
in the historic city as well as in the modern city.
(Eleni Portaliou, 2007)
Within the cities there are many fragmented and
neglected areas as parks, squares and urban voids.
These spaces along with the open spaces on the
plots of the blocks in conjunction with existing
roads and sidewalks can be unified green spaces.
An example is the Finger plan-1947 in the inner city
of Copenhagen.
Nature should operate as an integrated network
with the urban and suburban environment with
greennetworks to connect the different functions
of the city. Then, the quality of life within the city
will be improved- by changing the thermal comfort
and urban microclimate- creating opportunities
for recreation and the enrichment of the urban
biodiversity.
OB
See also
Rural Network, Natives Plans Gardens, Purifying
Wetlands, Water Detention, Green Interventions in
Natural Areas, Passage, Promenade, City as part of
Nature, Trace of Former Infrastructure.
211
References
The Associated Press (21 Nov 2006). In Europe, less is more when it comes to road signs, International
Herald Tribune.
Simon Jenkins (29 Feb 2008). Rip out the traffic lights and railings. Our streets are better without them ,
The Guardian.
212
102
Shared Spaces
User behavior becomes influenced

and controlled by natural human
interactions rather than by artificial
regulation. (Associated Press,2006)
Hypothesis
Streets that allocate distinct spaces to the different modes

of transport can be transformed into Shared Spaces.
Theoretical backup
A major characteristic of a shared space is the
absence of traditional road markings, signs, traffic
signals and the distinction between road and
pavement.
Conventional road priority management systems
and devices such as kerbs, lines, signs and signals
could be replaced with an integrated, peopleoriented understanding of public space, such
as walking, cycling, shopping and driving, all as
integrated activities.
Opportunities for safety, economic vitality
community severance and reduction of congestion
can be effectively tackled in streets and other public
spaces if they are designed and managed to allow
traffic to be fully integrated with the human activity
and not separated from it.
The shared space philosophy distinguishes

between the fine-meshed slow network of the
Street hierarchy, and its larger-meshed fast
network. The slow network, which is the subject
of the shared space philosophy, is characterized as
the street network which make public space vital
and accessibleThe fast or supra traffic network,
which allows traffic to reach destinations quickly,
and which is designed using traditional traffic
engineering methodologies, is essential if the slow
network is to function properly.
OB
See also
Wide Sidewalks, Add Program to Highways, Traffic
Calming, Promenade, Public Transport for all, Pilot
Projects.
213
Free Wi-Fi in Bryant Park
References
Hampton K., Livio O., Sessions L. The Social Life of Wireless Urban Spaces Internet Use, Social Networks, and
the Public Realm, Mobile 2.0: Beyond Voice? Pre-conference workshop at the International Communication
Association (ICA) Conference Chicago, Illinois 20 21 May 2009
214
103
Free Wi-Fi in parks
Although urban public spaces are

not a public realm for wi-fi users, the
activities in which they engage do
contribute to broader participation in
the public sphere.
(Hampton, Livio, Sessions 2009)
Hypothesis
Free Wi Fi spots should be placed in central parks and

operate as projection of peoples working environment.
Theoretical backup
Free Wi Fi in public spaces like parks can increase
the daily attendance of visitors and contribute to
the social life of the neighborhood. With the free
Wi FI access, these parks can also be transformed
into places of concentration for young people or
into open-air libraries especially if they are close to
Universities or Public Libraries.
Along with other facilities like kiosks wi fi spots
can be transformed to condensers of the urban life.
Municipalities in charge to install Wi Fi spots, can
offerfree wireless access in central parks.
Bryant Park and Union Square are two large public

parks with free wifi access provided by NYC
Municipality.
OB
See also
Pilot Projects, Train Station, City Center.
215
Community Garden in Brooklyn
References
American Community Garden Association (2007). What is a community garden? Retrieved on 2007-11-01
from http://www.communitygarden.org/learn/.
Hannah, A.K.; & Oh, P. (2000). Rethinking Urban Poverty: A look at Community Gardens. Bulletin of Science,
Technology and & Society.
Wright R., 1922, Truly Rural, Berkeley Community Gardening Collaborative.
216
104
Community Gardens
A garden is a public service and having

one a public duty. It is a mans
contribution to the community.
(Richardson Wright, 1922)
Hypothesis
In urban areas the green spaces can be gardened

collectively by a group of people under public community
programs.
Theoretical backup
Community gardens provide fresh products and
plants from urban agriculture as well as satisfying
labor, improvement of the sense of community
in the neighborhoods, ecological awareness
and connection to the environment. (American
Community Garden Association 2007).
Possibilities for the creation of gathering places for
the neighborhood with food production cherished.
Also, provision of access to gardening to those
who otherwise could not have a garden, such as the
elderly, the immigrants or the homeless. (Hannah
A.K., Oh P. 2000).
These areas, the community gardens, are publicly

functioning in terms of ownership, access, and
management, as well as typically owned by local
governments or from non-profit associations.
Community Gardens also combat two forms of
alienation that plague modern urban life, by bringing
urban gardeners closer in touch with the source
of their food, and by breaking down isolation by
creating a social community.
OB
See also
Color in Public Space, Native Plans Gardens, Water
Detention, the Public Rooftop, private Landscape
Resources.
217
Guerillas Grdening Intervention
References
Paddison, R. and Sharp, J., 2003, Towards democratic public spaces paper presented at
Nothing Special? The potential of neighborhood space Urban Design Group conference,
The Lighthouse, Glasgow 21-22 October 2003,
http://web.ges.gla.ac.uk/Online_Papers/rpaddison001.pdf last accessed 12/9/2007
Reynolds R., 2008,in Mooallem J., June 8 2008, Guerrilla Gardening, New York Times magazine.
Wickham-Crowley TP., (1987) ,The rise (and sometimes fall) of guerrilla movements in Latin
America in Sociological Forum 2, 473-499
Zanetti O., 2007, Guerrilla Gardening Geographers and Gardeners, Actors and Networks: Reconsidering Urban
Public Space, p.56
218
105
Guerilla Gardening
Public space should not only be public

in the sense of accessibility but also in
conception and design. What are the
mechanisms for this? Spaces for the
people
should be democratic not just in their
physical presence and openness but
also in the
decision-making processes underlying
the creation and management of them.
(Paddison and Sharp 2003)
Hypothesis
Neglected urban space, which tends to be devoid of natural

landscapes, is gardened by urban activists who reclaim
land in order to cultivate plants in the open spaces of the
city.
Theoretical backup
Guerilla Gardening is the cultivation of someone

elses land without permission.(Richard Reynolds)
Guerilla Gardening is political gardening, a form
of nonviolent direct action, primarily practiced
by environmentalists. It is related to land rights,
land reform and permaculture. Activists squat an
abandoned piece of land, which they do not own in
order to grow crops or plants. In addition, Guerilla
gardeners promote reconsidering land ownership
and land reform.
Guerilla gardening has implications in reclaiming

land from perceive neglected or misuse and give a
new use on it.
Guerilla Gardeners occupy space in which there is a

political vacuum: the untended public spaces of the
modern city. In contrast to the ordered spaces of
Public City Guerilla Gardening can be summarized
as any voluntary, and potentially illicit, gardening
in space which can in some way be deemed public,
over which the gardeners hold no direct or explicit
ownership. (Zanetti 2007)
Like authentic guerrillas for whom ungovernable
rural areas were their strongholds (WickhamCrowley 1987), Guerilla Gardeners make their mark
in spaces out of reach of the authorities, generally
the untended, derelict areas of inner cities. Such
spaces were inevitably located largely in places of
low economic development.
OB
See also
Color in Public Space, Native Plans Gardens, Private
Landscape Resources.
219
220
OB
Olga Balaoura
During this course we were asked to produce a set of

urban rules translated into patrons. Therefore, each of
us organized a set of patrons according to each specific
interest, memories and reflection over space according
to design knowledge, practice or observation. Finally, all
of the patrons should be able to operate as a common
language, a manual for all users. This language should
also have a vocabulary filtered by different individuals
and a grammar- the patron field- as a linking language
for all patrons.
The purpose of this project was to make a logical and
practical case for any user in order, he or she, to get
oriented over the structure of the city. These patrons
became an interesting inter-play between different
representations and mentalities, an encouraging dialogue
between urbanists that I would personally call creative
cartography derived from the multidimensional
experience of the space. Although these representations
have been analyzed with different approaches, there
were three linking elements guiding their definition:
identity, structure and meaning.
As well as the city is a field of different memories,
experiences and approaches in the designing process; we
can also observe, in general, different kinds of patrons.
Patrons specific and patrons abstract, patrons that have
been referred to a regional scale and patrons referred to
user- behavior, patrons that search for bottom- up and
patrons for top- down definitions or practices. There were
patrons related to water, as water was a central element
in our designing and research process this semester and
patrons more urban related to the organization of a
city. There were patrons related to the historic city and
its monuments and contemporary patrons as actions
of people. Also patrons more technical adopting formal
rules for the construction of the city and patrons more
critical depicting urban transformations.
In fact, the process of constructing patrons, produce
a definition, search for theoretical backup and for
examples already implemented, makes this research
interesting both for personal and collective production.
It works as a learning tool not only as a final product,
a typical pattern formula, but as a data- set always in
progress.
It will be really interesting, this book of patrons, not to be
published once but to function as an open book, an open
source where urbanists but also users could add new
ideas.
Hence, an interactive patron-field providing urban
information and rules could improve both the users and
the architects experience.
221
222
CF
Claudiu Forgaci
We gradually understood the qualities of the patterns

during our Theory course. Lets have a closer look at the
qualities, particularities and shortcomings encountered
during the process.
At the beginning of the course we had a general confusion
about what a pattern (or patron) is. Maybe our previous
understanding of a pattern as a visually identifiable,
consistent arrangement of shapes distracted us from
grasping the more particular definition of Christopher
Alexander. Also, our parallel study in the Technology
course might have prevented us from clearly spotting the
difference between a design rule and a pattern.
When writing our first patterns, we aim to influence
the final spatial outcome of our design: the physical
shape of a river, the proportions of a street, a quality
of the pavement. Yet, in my opinion, it is more to the
potential of patrons than just directly guiding spatial
outcomes. They can also address issues of the design
process, point out abstract frameworks or stimulate the
designers cognition, thus have an indirect, yet significant
influence on the quality of a design. Therefore I propose
a set of three abstract, scaleless patterns (Coincidences,
Paradoxes, Cause and effect?) which I consider to be
important to the way we approach our designs.
It is interesting how a designer may be recognized by
simply looking at his/her patterns. This means that
patterns are not only subjective, as stated above, but
they are also imprinted with the character of their author.
Just by looking at the seven sets of patterns made by our
team members, we can spot this as a quality. I will not
differentiate the patterns among the authors, but rather
point out the ones that I found the most interesting for
each person: Carlos explores the potential of integrating
natural processes into urban areas by proposing the
Native plants garden, Purifying wetlands, Sunny and
shaded, Water detention and Soft interventions for
nature areas; Jesus describes surprising phenomena and
singularities with his last patterns The single factor, The
invaders and Sun instincts; with Measuring sprawl, The
public rooftop and Public transport for all, Lenin seems
to be concerned with the effects of sprawl, density and
local urban interventions; Tempos in a city, Decline of
diversity, Distribution of land use, Semi-flowing space
and Large scale infrastructure clearly illustrate Meng
Dis fascination with urban dynamics and infrastructure;
Monique takes a broader position and investigates general
urban issues such as Public spaces, Mixed use and Public
transport, but also looks to very tactile details, such
as Building entrances and Materiality; Olga keeps her
patterns in the realm of public space awareness and
shared spaces with Pocket Parks, Community gardens,
and Guerrilla gardening.
There is no pattern that I would regard as useless or

incomprehensible. However, some patterns are maybe
too general (Sedimentation, Public space, Detailing),
some might seem too abstract (Cause and effect,
Paradoxes, Coincidences), some could have been merged
(Sedimentation and Sedimentation in the floodplain;
Public transport for all and Public transport; Vertical
references and Landmarks; etc.). These shouldnt be
seen as defects of our collection, but rather as a lack of
optimization.
The final pattern field and, in our case, the pattern book
marks the end of our process. But what is its purpose?
Can others design by following its guidelines? Is it a book
that worth buying? I wouldnt declare it a guidebook. For
me it is rather a field of ideas that might be consulted
by designers dealing with the same issues. However, the
more people work on it, the broader the result is, and,
consequently, the book becomes more reliable to guide.
Individual subjectivity is reduced by the involvement
of different approaches. On the other hand, individual
pattern fields are highly introspective, therefore I see no
point in being followed by someone else.
Overall, the method of recording, visualizing and
structuring ideas with patterns was eye-opening for me.
So far, my fascination with complexity theories of cities
has been translated only in abstract assumptions or
questions. Working with patterns made me more aware
of the fact that complexity is not something to deal with
only by means of theoretical explorations. I will definitely
continue writing, drawing and using patterns. I dont
know whether the outcome will lead me to something
clear, but at least I will end up with an easily compiled
personal collection.
223
224
JGE
Jesus Garate Esain
Introduction
During the 2012 spring semester of the TU Delft EMU
program, we have been experimenting on the creation of
patterns following the Christopher Alexander principles.
The design of the present book is the result of group
debates about the most particular ones.
The patterns
Each of the patterns are understood as a real axiom that
tries to explain certain aspects of the society first and
more in detail the urban landscape in particular. Since
Alexander first wrote there have been many authors
have used this technic for defining specific aspects of
their environment.
The aim of the patterns is to achieve a global knowledge
about certain aspects of the society. Patterns are not
independent or universal. Each person may have different
interpretation of reality. According to that, we could say
that this is the beginning of a never ending publication.
We can find different categories of patterns. In the
present book, we can find some of them that try to
identify the relation between the water and natural
processes with the creation of human settlements first
and cities later. Others deal with the human behaviour
and the public space or the character of the cities.
Finally, the patterns can be used as a tool for creating
basic design rules that dont necessarily have to be
written but that will be applied by the designers as design
principles.
Randomness
In my opinion, randomness is one of the most interesting
aspects of the book. Although they are presented on a
fix structure, the arrangement within the book tries to
enhance this characteristic they are aim to describing
the global knowledge so neither beginning nor end can
be identified.
The pattern book is in principle a compilation of random
ideas of 7 urbanism students with very different
backgrounds, experiences and nationalities: Spanish,
Romanian, Greek, Mexican, Chinese and Dutch. Each of
us had total freedom for proposing 15 ideas or theories
that were the result of our interpretation of our interests
about the city and human behaviour.
We can find several similarities on the patterns since
we are influenced by the delta-water urbanism, main
topic of the master we are part of. Few patterns were
rejected depending on their interest or lack of theoretical
background. At the same time, other patterns were
merged since they had similar basics and a more complete
meaning together.
Creation of patterns
Each pattern arises from different ideas or analysis of
the urban environment. Once they achieve a sufficient
consistency, we tried to confirm and complete them with
proven theories and references.
The Pattern Field
The pattern field is a map representation of a certain part
of reality. It has the ability to position each idea within a
conceptual framework.
However, I found it difficult to estimate its scientific
value because of the method applied. Each person
positioned its patterns trying to be objective. The position
of previous patterns influenced on the new ones. In my
opinion, a non-necessary complex equation could have
solved the human behaviour factor and enhance once
again the randomness I mentioned already. Each pattern
could have an applied code (X,Y) that would position it on
the map.
Although it is apparently a complex system, there are
simple connections: pre and post pattern. Patterns cant
be isolated. They are connected to other ideas and have
the ability to produce new ones. At the same time, the
structure of the pattern field can be as complex as the
study want. It could have multiple shapes: circular,
axial The creation of a 3d pattern field would also show
more interpretations.
Conclusion
Although there was there was a desired unclear
organization during the initial part of the course, it has
demonstrated being an interesting self-organizative
experiment. Few ideas that started just as axioms
could be transformed into possible theories that can be
interpreted individually or as part of a whole within the
Pattern Field.
The patterns that I have suggested in the book are the
result of my personal experiences after having lived in
different cities. My personal interest is focused on finding
the common elements that make them successful
in order to be able to create new designs that would
transfer them from one city to other.
The continuation of the study individually would result
into a personal design agenda, a personal vademecum,
summary of our human, life, urban, architectonic and
many other interests.
225
226
LGO
Lenin Garcia Ortiz
During this spring semester 2012 in Theory assignment

we, E.M.U. students, had the task to write a small book
based on urbanism, landscape and architecture patterns.
Since the beginning, personally, I had two ways to
approach the search for patterns: first by looking around
in my daily environment, second, by thinking in my past
environment.
By looking around the daily environment and thinking
in the past, I started to look for answers to certain
phenomena I was particularly attracted or concerned.
Soon I spoke with some colleagues about the task,
and their procedure was the same: connecting our daily
experience to the search for answers.
Under our daily experience a very strong and influential
factor was the current task for the Studio assignment,
related to water. Because of this in the end there are a
lot of patterns related to water. In addition during the
process of writing a pattern, it is required to understand
the specific topic that is going to be written about,
therefore research, in the sense of gathering information
to learn about a topic, is a very important part of the
process. On the other hand there are very different
patterns and some dont have anything to do with
others because each of us have different concerns and
fascinations, for example: some patterns were really
abstract and I would say with a philosophical approach
such as paradoxes and coincidence, while others were
very practical. This shows that the patterns are not only
a tool for design but also a tool for learning and to reflect
about a topic.
Moreover, by talking about patterns we talk about a model
or original considered worthy of imitation, which makes
me think that making patterns could be a tool for Design
research since the goal of design research is to combine,
coordinate, and simplify the findings of experiments by
developing generalizing concepts (Glanville 1999). This
is that the analysis of existing designs (considered as
previous experiments) represent knowledge that can be
generalized in concepts or principles which can be used
in the process of design as foundation or theoretical
models (Klaasen, I. 2007).
The last two paragraphs shows that the patterns are
a tool to connect the theoretical stand of a researcher
and the practical approach of a designer in order to
produce designs that are diverse and express the
personal ideals and aesthetic expression of the designer
yet are outcomes based on scientific research and
therefore can be repeated and applied with certain
degree of predictability. Moreover by writing patterns the
knowledge contained in existing designs can be recorded
and disseminated, otherwise the problem of design
disciplines that is making just by experience will be a
vicious circle for professionals of design.
In one way a book of patterns can be understood as a guide

book for the designer but also can be used as an organizer
of ideas. A book of patterns is structured in the way that
each pattern works together with another group of
patterns. In this way by writing one pattern the designer
is able to organize his or her ideas in groups and then can
assemble them in a coherent design. Also by organizing
the groups of patterns the designer is dissecting the
problem in its parts and this can help to design or trace
the route in order to produce the outcome. On the other
hand the researcher is able to recognize the threads
resulting from the very first topic and furthermore can
recognize missing or defective fields of knowledge within
the research.
I can think about two more fields of implementation for
the patterns. These fields lay on the relation with the
user.
The first is about using the patterns as a tool for
recognizing the needs and interests of community. The
patterns could be used as a tool for read and interpret
results in participatory planning. As I already said,
patterns can be organized in sets of patterns because
there is a thread that links them. In this sense when
different actors come with different sets of needs or
concerns, the planner can use the same logic and create
patterns about these needs and concerns. By organizing
it in sets of patterns a common vision for the majority can
be presented and the different concerns linked to each
other.
The second implementation is using the patterns for
interaction design. Since patterns state what is a right
solution (proved in the more practical patterns) for
a certain problem then users could have an array of
possible solutions to choose from.
Conclusion
A book of patterns is more than a reference for good
design. It is a tool to organize the process of design or
research; it is a tool to connect the realm of theory and
the one of practice. In addition it is a tool for interaction
design since the patterns define sets of characteristics
that can be chosen from. Furthermore it is a tool for
participatory design since the designer can identify all
different patterns presented by the different actors
involved.
A book of patterns can be seen as restrictive but it is a
tool for a better integration of knowledge (theoretical
and practical) and the own expression of the designer.
References:
Glanville, R. (1999) Researching Design and Designing
Research. Design Issues: Vol. 15 No. 2 Summer 1999.
Klaasen, I. 2007. A scientific approach to urban and
regional design: research by design. In: J. Design
Research, Vol. 5 No. 4, 2007.
227
228
MG
Monique Gorisse
Writing patterns
For me as a practising architect it was an interesting
adventure to write patterns instead of designing buildings.
In a way writing patterns is similar to designing buildings,
in both cases you are working towards a goal; what is
the essence of this building or this pattern? And in both
cases you will need to do research to make sure your
building or pattern works. Usually a design assignment
has requirements and a context, which you can use as
a starting point of the design. But what is the starting
point of a pattern? A pattern is a tool to communicate
design ideas between the author and other designers. In
order to make sure that a pattern can be used by other
designers who will have a different design assignment,
the pattern must be generalized to a certain extent. So
what are my design ideas and how can these ideas be
used by other designer with a different requirements and
a different context?
Writing patterns is a good way to evaluate your personal
design ideas. What are important aspects when designing
a building or space? And how can you catch the essence
of this idea in a couple of sentences, in a way that it is
useful for other designers as well? Writing patterns also
gives you an opportunity to research interesting subjects
to develop the idea further and come across new ideas,
which can be translated into more patterns. In this way
you can keep on expanding the set of patterns. By writing
patterns they became a valuable communication tool
for myself as well, next time I will start designing I will
have a set of patterns to use.
We have been working on the patterns with a group of
designers from different parts of the world, each with
their own background, experience and fascinations.
This provides an opportunity to cross-fertilize certain
ideas and exchange patterns. The process of exchanging
patterns is similar to a brainstorming session; someone
has an idea which is an inspiration for the next person and
so on. Exchanging patterns also shows that patterns are
subjective, patterns with similar subjects can have a very
different implementation and will result in a different
approach to the design. There are for example several
patterns about Public Space and they all argue how to
improve the public space, but the practical implications
are very different and vary from introducing art into the
public space to widening pavements for pedestrians. This
creates an interesting dimension to The Pattern Book, as
there are different solutions to a similar problem and this
gives other designers the opportunity to choose which
solution is most suitable in their situation.
Organising patterns
The Pattern Book compiles all the patterns and is
currently organised by author with references to
related patterns. Initially this seemed a random way
of organising patterns, but when reading the book you
will notice that each author who has its own recurring
subjects which he or she focuses on, which explains the
views of this designer, how this designer would approach

a design and what elements are important. Examples of
these subjects are Landscape (CRSG), Water (CF), Public
Space (JGE&LGO), infrastructure (MDG), Buildings
(MG), Cities (OB).
This gave me the idea of organising the patterns by
subject instead of by author and also to apply this to the
patternfield, which is currently organised by scale and
the level of abstractness. Reading The Pattern Book is
actually similar to reading a newspaper. You wont read
the newspaper from A to Z like a book, but you will
scan the headlines and images and decide on that basis
which articles you will read depending on your interests.
Organising The Pattern Book in subjects will be similar
to the different sections of a newspaper, for example
Economy or Sport. Within a subject all patterns are
relating to each other by default and between subjects
there are specific relations between the patterns or
between patterns and subjects, which encourages you to
start reading about other subjects.
Advantages of organising the patterns by subject are:
- Relations between patterns become clearer as patterns
within a subject automatically relate to each
other. Relations between patterns of other subjects will
be specifically shown in the patternfield.
- Patterns from different authors with the same subject
will be clustered, in that way you can compare
the patterns and choose which one is most relevant in
your situation.
- As a designer you will work at different scales and
integrate all scales into your design, for example
when designing a public space you will have to think
about the connecting public spaces in the city as
well as the trees within the public space. By clustering
patterns relating to different scales but similar
subjects encourages designers to work at different scale
levels simultaneously.
Disadvantages of organising the patterns by subject are:
- Some patterns will be difficult to catch in a subject.
They could either be a minor subject on their own
or if appropriate included in the subject where they have
most relations with.
Patterns: a method or an inspiration?
Christopher Alexander invented patterns in his book
A Pattern Language to provide a structured method of
describing good design practices to allow ordinary people
to design their own houses, streets and communities.
This idea came from the observation that most of
the wonderful places of the world were not made by
architects but by people. (ref Alexander, C)
It is questionable if Alexanders Pattern Language is the
right method for people to create their own environments
as each place has its own complex design problems and
it is impossible to anticipate all these problems within
a method. It is also questionable if a common problem
always needs the same solution or that creativity can
also solve these problems, create wonderful places and
add diversity to the built environment.
If this Pattern Language is fulfilling the intended goal
or not, most of the patterns described in the book are
actually a very inspiring way of thinking about the built
environment and it does inspire lots of people, designers
and architects to contribute to building this dream of a
world full of wonderful places. With this idea in mind The
Pattern Book was created and will form a collection of
potentially great ideas for people or designers and can
be used as an inspiration for anyone to start writing
patterns.
References:
- Alexander, Christopher ( 1977), A Pattern Language,
Oxford University Press, New York
- Reviews of A Pattern Language by C. Alexander
available at www.amazon.co.uk (visited 02/07/2012)
229
230
MDG
Meng Di Guo
of thinking. This in my opinion is a part about complexity:

the complexity of different actors. The way we work on
the pattern field is a model of multi-actor design setting.
The patterns together provide a lot of unorganized
information. The information was organized by connecting
the patterns. It is one way to organize information, but
it has to be further analysed and divided to see detailed
information. The amount of the connections is so big that
it does not show information directly. I would prefer to
conclude the pattern field as a chaotic structure. This
structure reveals that there is more information to be
explored, which makes the pattern field intriguing, and
attracts people to explore more about the patterns.
I didnt really realize what the patterns are about at the

very beginning. The beginning of selecting a pattern is a
testing process; and the origin of patterns varies a lot.
The first four patterns I tried to make did take some
effort. And I would say I spent more time figuring out
whether a hypothesis could be regarded a pattern or not
than the patterns themselves. The patterns came into my
mind from every detail of daily life: travelling experience,
books and papers, lectures, information online, talk with
other people, and experience in design etc. This is the
first part that reveals the complexity. There could be a
thousand hypotheses, but not all of them can be regarded
as a pattern.Later after starting to make more patterns,
this was no longer a problem.
Then the new challenges came for making new patterns
and enrich the content of each pattern: looking for
theoretical backup and providing practical implications.
Looking for theoretical references reflects to a process
of actively searching papers and books to read instead
of passively accepting a reading list from the professor.
For some patterns collected from reading, lecture and
courses it is not difficult to find references, but for
others such as inspiration or experience from daily life it
is not that easy. This part for me is an active form of the
traditional definition of theory course. The difference
is that I was searching for papers to read for a clear
purpose, or to say for solving a problem. I can directly
implicate my theoretical backup in the patterns book
and link it with practical implications after reading. In
the traditional type of theory class, there is no such
practical motive. This different motive of reading makes
the process of enriching the theoretical knowledge
interesting because I was the one to decide the topics
of patterns.
The practical implication is another important part that
needs consideration as long as the patterns are built for
use. The practical implication is closely connected to the
technology course (urban rules), is also a standard to
evaluate and test the hypothesis. Some topics express
common or interesting phenomenon but do not directly
influence the practical process. For these patterns
I have to choose to give up the topic or to think about
another hypothesis to express the same idea. Some
abstract patterns can be divided into more concrete ones;
similarly, some very practical patterns can also reflect
back to the abstract and context ones. I would say the
implications are not just for guiding design practice, but
also for assisting the process of working
The most interesting part of the entire process of working
is the communication on the patterns, making connections
and producing a pattern field. By communicating with the
others about patterns and reading more patterns, it is
not hard to find a tendency or preference in the process
231
232
CRSG
Carlos Rafael
Salinas Gonzalez
During this semester I had the opportunity to research on

different patterns that could be applied to urban design
or landscape projects. At the same time, I also had the
opportunity to share them with my classmates as well
as reading the ones they produced.
Both their patterns and mines had a big influence from
the design task we were working on at that moment, a
project in the island of Dordrecht facing the challenges
and opportunities that water safety management poses
for urban areas. That can be easily noticeable since
several of the patterns we came up with, had a direct or
indirect relation with water related phenomena.
As common elements in our patterns it is possible to
identify the way in which we approach water, generally
not as a problem but a as design element that could
enhance the qualities of a place and that represents big
potential as attractor and recreational factor.
Reflecting about my patterns, I think that during this
work I had the opportunity to explore some issues that
interest me. The patterns I made could be classified in
three big topics: environmental issues, the qualities of
public space and urban synergies.
Firstly, I am interested in environmental issues such as
ecology services proved by wetlands or the use of native
plants for instance as way in which the relation between
nature and city could be re-establish, taking advantage
of the relevant role that nature and ecosystems could
play as part of the metabolic system of the city. On the
one hand the natural flows and ecosystems in which the
city is submerged could help to purify and treat some of
the negative outcomes of urban population and on the
other hand this natural ecosystems inside and outside
the city could be also relevant elements that provide
urbanities with interesting phenomena that could provide
diversity of events and inspiration to city living an even
some resources that could be incorporated into the urban
economy, for instance in case of urban agriculture.
In the second issue, related with the qualities of public
space, one of my main interests is related on how design
could enhance and support the activities currently
happening in an area as well as how design can integrate
different elements and artefacts from the sites past
in order to use them in a way they could still maintain
a meaning, be source of understanding and inspiration
on designing a place and how they can contribute to
strengthen the qualities of a site.
Finally, one my interests is related with the way urban
activities support each other and how certain activities
present specific locations, infrastructure and critical
mass needs. In that sense, a research I would like to
explore for future works is about which urban measures
could be applied to positively influence in optimizing the

functioning of different clusters of existing activities or
even how, to take advantage of existing conditions that
could give rise to the appearance of new urban synergies.
One of the most important learning I obtained on
working with patterns is how can I take advantage of
them not only as principles for design but also as way for
recording information and deepening in a specific subject
in a non-linear way. In that regard, elaborating patterns
could become an observation tool for systematically
registering different aspects or findings we have in our
daily life or during research trips. In that way, recurrent
characteristics or combination can be first registered
as hypothesis and later they can compared with other
examples and complemented with more detail research
that will allow not also to remember a fact but also to find
theoretical and practical support to our observations. In
that sense, I think that patterns have a great potential as
learning tools to turn on our mind and really pay attention
to what happens around us, besides representing a way
to sharpen our critical stance towards reality.
Patterns could be useful also when doing research for
designing a specific project. In that way, as part of the
observation a designer makes, one can come up with a set
a patterns reflecting the phenomena happening in a site.
Those patterns could be registered and later used not
only by the designer but also for other professionals or
designers working in the area, corroborating or opposing
to observations in them. This patterns could be also
applied by authorities or residents in a certain area for
mitigating some of the problems that where described in
the patterns.
In relation with the usefulness of creating a text in
this way, I believe that one of the strongholds of such
a method is the diversity of points of view and topics. As
disadvantages of that same diversity, the depth and the
way the issues are presented vary considerably. However,
having access to the patterns made by others could be
a mind broadening experience and part of a learning
process. Personally, I think it is worthwhile both to
enter in touch with others patterns but is also relevant
to the develop our owns, because by doing so, one can
reflect seriously on a topic, question it and internalize
the knowledge and ideas obtained and developed in a
stronger way.
Finally, in my opinion, working with patterns opens a
wide array of possibilities for generating and sharing
knowledge, learning from past and present patterns or
ideas that implemented in a creative way could open new
doors and paths for understanding the way in which the
cities live and the way in which that life transforms and
could be enhanced.
233

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1

European Postgrate Masters in Urbanism

Patterns are concise. There are two reasons for

When designing, we often build up a complicated

Patterns are interconnected. The pattern field

Cause and effect?

High density and

Green networks greenways

The city crossed by

The water city

063 City centre

Kids and elders in

Dikes are not s

Tempos in the city

The resilient delta

Inside and outside

ect the local

Free WiFi in parks

Sunny and shaded

Art in public space

Trees in the city

Farming in the city

The public rooftop

Edges of the city

Public transport for

The single factor

The historic centre of Split, Croatia.

...It is well to have, not only what men

The experience of an urban space could be enriched

A garden designed with native flowers

Natures vegetation forms a fragile

Using native species of plants and trees in landscape and

A sidewalk in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Streets and their sidewalks, the main

Wide sidewalks are more comfortable and allow a wider

Wetlands for water treatment in Beijings Olympic Park

Natural processes can be used to filter water in order to

Public swimming pool in the port of Copenhague, Denmark.

When water is clean in a city river or harbour, a wide range

Santo Domingo Square in Oaxaca, Mexico.

An urban space should have diversity of enviroments, and

Integration of bioswales in a landscape design

Implementing landscaping strategies like bioswales and

Coastal promenade in Zadar, Croatia.

Facilitating access to water elements in a city could create

Artificial structures in wild park lands

Natural areas can be used by humans in a way its activities

Spaces underneath a highway in Koog aan de Zaan, The Netherlands.

Infrastructure should be porous and include functions as

A covered walkway in Bologna, Italy.

Pedestrian flows and pedestrian comfort could be

The Eiffel Tower, a relevant vertical reference in Paris, France.

Vertical references could be relevant wayfinding objects in

A passage in Stockholm, Sweden.

Passages introduce diversity of atmospheres and open

Traffic calming in Johnson City, Tennessee , USA.

If the speed of cars is reduced inside neighborhoods, the

Agricultural cluster in Westland, The Netherlands.

It is being concentrated which

Activity clusters take advantage of agglomeration

it is common to find specific fast-food restaurants,

The waterfront of Dordrecht

[] the waterfront becomes the stage

The waterfront is the most central and dense part of the