Introduction to Urban Design

Introduction to Urban Design

• Urban design focuses on the design and development of cities
• Cities are defined as a group of people and permanent structures in a limited geographic area, organised to facilitate the exchange of goods and services between residents and the outside world.
• The diversity of cities depends on their complex functions.

What is a City?

• Liveable
• Accessible
• Sustainable
• Affordable
• Equitable
• Smart

Classifications of Cities

• Highly Urbanized City (HUC):

  • Minimum population of 200,000
  • Annual income of PHP 50 Million and above

• Component City:

  • Population and income are below those of a HUC

• Urban Area:

  • Includes all cities and municipalities with a population density of at least 1,000 people per square kilometer.
  • Characterised by street patterns or networks.

• Local Government Code of the Philippines (R.A.7160):

  • Annual minimum income of 20 Million annually
  • At least 10,000 hectares (100sq.km.) in land area
  • Minimum population of 150,000

Functions of the City

• Economic:

  • A basic and ongoing function
  • Cities act as producers and marketplaces
  • Strategic locations are crucial for the exchange of goods.

• Defense & Protection:

  • A historical function
  • Now, arguably, obsolete
  • Historically, cities were built to withstand sieges and attacks from migrating tribes or enemies.

• Worship & Government:

  • A core function throughout history
  • Cities were built around temples, shrines and pyramids
  • Medieval cathedrals were the centres of cities, later replaced by Renaissance palaces and castles.

• Transportation:

  • Significantly affects the location of cities, as they depend on geography
  • Modern transportation enables people to live in larger, more spread-out cities

• Education & Culture:

  • Cities are seats of academies and scholarship
  • A continuing function
  • They are educators due to the variety of people, ideas, and jobs
  • They reflect cultural pride through ancient theatres, religious festivals, and the "city beautiful" concept.

• Housing:

  • The largest and simplest function
  • Housing functions have shifted from inner city areas to outlying regions.

Explore the fundamentals of urban design and its significance in shaping cities. This quiz covers various classifications of cities, their essential characteristics, and the role of local government in urban development. Understand how urban design contributes to creating liveable, sustainable, and accessible urban spaces.