The module aims to provide students with a practical understanding of the definitions, concepts and roles of urban design. It aims to develop student’s understanding of the established and emerging theories surrounding the discipline. It also looks at the range of principles which are used to underpin urban design guidance and practice. It aims to provide students with an understanding of emerging trends and best practice in urban design in Ireland and abroad.
The module aims to familiarise students with the range of urban design practice, such as evaluations, concepts, plans and briefs. Students will learn how to develop and apply a framework process which can facilitate the making or remaking of a place.
Through project-work students will explore the essential physical ingredients of vibrant, sustainable and inclusive neighbourhoods and cities. Students will apply spatial and urban design skills at a masterplanning level, encompassing varying scales. This module exposes the learner to the creative aspects of design solutions in a given urban context, with a particular focus on the masterplanning process.
The syllabus includes the following elements:
- The definitions, concepts and principles of urban design and good placemaking;
- The main theories of urban design;
- The historical development of urban design and masterplans;
- The role of urban design in spatial planning;
- Processes for developing an urban design framework.
- The techniques and practice of urban design and masterplanning – analysis and evaluation;
- The techniques and practice of urban design and masterplanning – urban design concepts and framework plans;
- The techniques and practice of urban design and masterplanning – guidance and briefs;
- Irish and international case studies;
- Urban design and masterplanning in Ireland and site visit;
- Current, emerging and future directions for urban design and masterplanning in Ireland;
- Designing within density, development management and climate adaptive guidelines;
- Computer Aided Design (CAD); and
- Masterplanning design skills including the translation of a planning brief into a three dimensional urban form (Modelmaking, both digital and physical)
Studio-based learning, workshops and classroom discussion/seminars, interspersed with case studies and site visits to reinforce key themes.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |