SustainablePlacemakingUrban form as a basis for meeting the challenge of Climate Change

1. IdentityA distinct character

2. Safe and pleasant spacesClear distinction between public and private space

3. Sense of welcomeLively public space & the ability to make strangers feel welcome

4. Ease of movementConvenient access

5. AdaptabilityThe capacity to adapt to change

6. Good use of resourcesA mix of uses

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Urban form gives shape to places….it is the physical expression of the qualities

What is form?

ASPECT OF FORMUrban structure

[THE ESSENTIAL DIAGRAM OF A PLACE]Spatial distributions, networks, layout principles

ASPECT OF FORMAccessibility

[THE RELATIVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR MOBILITY]Distribution, integration and frequency of modal choices, strategic and local accessibility

ASPECT OF FORMDensity + Mix

[THE QUANTUM, TYPE + INTER-RELATIONSHIP OF LAND USES]Type, distribution, intensity, mix, vertical or horizontal layering

ASPECT OF FORM Height + Massing

[THE SIZE AND SHAPE OF BUILDINGS IN RELATION TO OTHER DEVELOPMENT]landmarks, vistas and views, building shoulder height, setbacks, shadow projections, blanket height

ASPECT OF FORM Streetscape + Landscape

[THE DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT OF THE PUBLIC SPACES]

Strategic landscape, green infrastructure, green networks, local open spaces, public spaces

ASPECT OF PERFORMANCESustainability

[THE RELATIVE PERFORMANCE AGAINST USE OF ASSETS, DECISIONMAKING, LIVABILITY AND WASTE]

Define this type of measure on a place specific basis

Trade offs

Fix the must haves. These are the ‘non negotiables’, the FEW things that must happen in a particular way to make the idea work

Identify the discretionary variables and the quality ranges. This is best achieved through PERFORMANCE CRITERIA. Assess incentives and adaptability

Balance must haves and discretionary variables on the basis of your vision: start with this question ‘what kind of place are we trying to create’…..and test everything against the answer.