ELECTIVE

ASSIGNMENT-1

By-
Ipsita Dash 220marchla004
Solai Surya 220marchla002
What is Urbanism ?

Urbanism refers to the study and design of urban areas, focusing on the planning,
development, and management of cities and towns. It involves understanding the
social, economic, cultural, and environmental aspects that shape urban spaces.
Urbanists seek to create sustainable, functional, and livable environments through
considerations like architecture, transportation, land use, and community engagement.
What is Landscape Urbanism ?
Landscape urbanism is an approach to urban design that emphasizes the role of
landscape as a fundamental organizing element in shaping cities and urban spaces. It
challenges traditional notions of city planning by placing a strong focus on the
ecological, social, and cultural aspects of a site.
In landscape urbanism, the design process often starts by analyzing the existing
natural and built environment, with a keen awareness of the interconnected systems at
play. Rather than relying solely on architectural or infrastructural solutions, landscape
urbanism seeks to integrate green spaces, water systems, and other ecological
features into the urban fabric.
The approach often involves flexible and adaptable design strategies, allowing for the
dynamic evolution of urban spaces over time. By recognizing the complexity and
interdependence of various elements within a city, landscape urbanism aims to create
more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments.
Theories of Landscape Urbanism-
Landscape urbanism is an approach to urban design that emphasizes the integration of
landscape ecology and urbanism. Some theories within landscape urbanism include:
1. Ecological Infrastructure: This theory views urban landscapes as interconnected
ecological systems, emphasizing the importance of green infrastructure, such as parks,
green roofs, and urban forests, to support biodiversity, manage stormwater, and
improve air quality.

Source- Archdaily © KCID

2. Spatial Justice: This theory focuses on addressing social inequalities and injustices
through the design and planning of urban landscapes. It emphasizes equitable access
to resources, amenities, and opportunities for all residents, regardless of
socioeconomic status or background.

Source- © The University of

Texas at Austin 2024
3. Adaptive Urbanism: This theory proposes flexible and adaptable urban designs that can
respond to changing social, economic, and environmental conditions over time. It
advocates for design strategies that promote resilience and sustainability.

Post-Industrial Landscapes - China Source- Urban Design Lab

© Ankur Jyoti Dutta
4. Post-industrial Landscapes: This theory explores the transformation of former
industrial sites and brownfields into productive and sustainable landscapes. It seeks to
reclaim and repurpose abandoned or underutilized land for recreational, ecological,
and economic purposes.

Post-Industrial Landscapes - China

Source- Landscape.IS.Hankin
5. Emergent Urbanism: This theory emphasizes bottom-up, participatory approaches to
urban design and planning, where local communities actively engage in shaping their
built environment. It values spontaneous and self-organizing processes that emerge
from the interactions of diverse stakeholders.

Source- SCENARIO JOURNAL

- Christopher Gray
Parameters of Landscape Urbanism-
The parameters of landscape urbanism encompass various elements that shape the design
and development of urban landscapes. Some key parameters include:
1. Ecological Connectivity: Emphasizes the integration of natural systems and
biodiversity into urban areas, promoting connectivity between green spaces,
waterways, and wildlife habitats.
2. Multifunctionality: Encourages the design of landscapes that serve multiple purposes,
such as providing recreational opportunities, managing stormwater, enhancing
biodiversity, and improving air quality.
3. Adaptive Design: Advocates for flexible and adaptable design strategies that can
accommodate changing social, economic, and environmental conditions over time.
4. Social Equity: Focuses on creating inclusive and accessible urban environments that
address social inequalities and promote social cohesion and well-being among diverse
communities.
5. Sustainable Infrastructure: Promotes the use of green infrastructure, such as green
roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, to manage stormwater, mitigate urban
heat island effects, and reduce energy consumption.
6. Place-making: Emphasizes the importance of creating unique and memorable places
within the urban landscape that foster a sense of identity, belonging, and cultural
expression.
7. Community Engagement: Encourages participatory planning and design processes
that involve local residents, stakeholders, and communities in decision-making and
implementation efforts.
8. Resilience: Addresses the capacity of urban landscapes to withstand and recover from
environmental shocks and stresses, such as natural disasters, climate change, and
socio-economic disruptions.
Elements of Landscape Urbanism-
1. Green Infrastructure: Integrating natural elements like parks, greenways, urban
forests, and wetlands into the urban fabric to manage stormwater, improve air
quality, and provide recreational spaces.
2. Transitional Spaces: Creating zones of transition between different urban uses or
environments, such as ecotones, buffer zones, and green corridors, to enhance
biodiversity and connectivity.
3. Mixed-Use Development: Designing neighborhoods and districts with a mix of
residential, commercial, and recreational amenities to promote walkability, reduce
reliance on cars, and foster social interaction.
4. Urban Agriculture: Incorporating urban farming, community gardens, and edible
landscapes into the urban fabric to promote food security, education, and
community engagement.
5. Blue-Green Infrastructure: Integrating water features like ponds, lakes, rivers, and
water-sensitive design elements such as bioswales and rain gardens to manage
stormwater, enhance water quality, and create recreational opportunities.
6. Social Spaces: Designing public plazas, squares, promenades, and gathering spaces
that encourage social interaction, cultural exchange, and civic engagement.
7. Adaptive Reuse: Repurposing vacant or underutilized land, buildings, and
infrastructure for new uses, such as adaptive reuse of industrial sites for parks, art
galleries, or mixed-use developments.
8. Ecological Restoration: Restoring degraded or disturbed landscapes to their natural
state through habitat rehabilitation, reforestation, and native plantings to enhance
biodiversity and ecosystem services.
9. Smart Growth Principles: Incorporating principles of compact development, transit-
oriented design, and infill development to minimize urban sprawl, reduce carbon
emissions, and preserve natural areas.
10. Public Art and Cultural Landscapes: Integrating art installations, murals, sculptures,
and cultural landmarks into the urban landscape to celebrate local identity, heritage,
and creativity.
Urban Landscape v/s Landscape Urbanism-
Landscape Urbanism: Landscape urbanism is a contemporary approach to urban
design that places a significant emphasis on the pivotal role of landscape elements in
shaping and organizing cities. This approach goes beyond traditional urban planning
by integrating ecological, social, and cultural considerations into the design process.
Landscape urbanism recognizes the interconnectedness of natural systems and
human activities within urban environments. It often prioritizes green spaces, water
features, and other landscape components to create more sustainable, resilient, and
visually appealing cities. This approach is characterized by its flexibility and
adaptability, acknowledging the dynamic nature of urban spaces and the need for
responsive design strategies.
Urban Landscape: On the other hand, the term "urban landscape" refers to the visual
and spatial aspects of the physical environment within a city or town. It encompasses
the various elements that constitute the urban fabric, including buildings, streets,
parks, and other features. Urban landscape design involves the aesthetic and
functional arrangement of these elements to create a cohesive and harmonious urban
experience. The perception of the urban landscape is crucial, considering how people
interact with and experience the cityscape. Urban landscape design often addresses
the challenges of urbanization, seeking to strike a balance between functionality,
aesthetics, and the well-being of the inhabitants. While landscape urbanism is a
specific design philosophy, urban landscape encompasses the broader physical and
perceptual dimensions of the urban environment
Examples of Landscape
Urbanism-
1.Parc de la Villette
Location- It is the third-largest park in Paris, 55.5 hectares (137 acres) in area.

Source- Parc de la Villette by Bernard

Tschumi
1.Parc de la Villette
1. Multifunctional Design: The park serves multiple purposes, including recreation,
cultural events, and ecological conservation.
2. Ecological Connectivity: The park promotes biodiversity and ecological connectivity by
incorporating diverse habitats and green corridors, enhancing the urban ecosystem.
3. Community Participation: The design process involved extensive community
engagement, ensuring that the park reflects the needs and aspirations of local
residents and stakeholders.

Source-© Tout pour plaire Source- © Bernard Tschumi Architects

1.Parc de la Villette
1. Integration of Nature and Culture: It seamlessly blends natural elements like green
spaces and water features with cultural landmarks, art installations, and performance
venues.
2. Cultural Landscapes: The park's design celebrates the cultural heritage and creativity
of Paris, incorporating architectural landmarks, art installations, and performance
spaces that showcase the city's identity.

Source- © William Beaucardet

1.Parc de la Villette
1. Adaptive Reuse: It repurposed a former industrial site, demonstrating the adaptive
reuse of urban spaces to create vibrant and sustainable landscapes.
2. Innovative Design Elements: It features innovative design elements, such as flexible
programming spaces, interactive exhibits, and dynamic landscapes, enhancing the
visitor experience and promoting creativity.

Source- © alamy
Source- Archdaily
Olympic Sculpture Park
Location- The Olympic Sculpture Park, created and operated by the Seattle Art Museum, is a
public park with modern and contemporary sculpture in downtown Seattle, Washington,
United States.

Source- ©landscapeperformance
Olympic Sculpture Park
1. Integration of Art and Nature: The park seamlessly integrates large-scale sculptures and
artworks with natural landscapes, blurring the boundaries between art and nature.
2. Ecological Restoration: It incorporates sustainable design principles, such as native
plantings, habitat restoration, and stormwater management systems, to enhance
ecological resilience and promote biodiversity along the urban waterfront.
3. Adaptive Reuse of Urban Space: Olympic Sculpture Park transformed a former industrial
site into a dynamic public space, demonstrating the adaptive reuse of urban land for
artistic, recreational, and ecological purposes.
Before After

Source- ©landscapeperformance
Olympic Sculpture Park
1. Public Access and Engagement: The park provides public access to the waterfront,
creating opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and cultural enrichment for residents
and visitors alike.
2. Community Connectivity: It connects adjacent neighborhoods and urban areas through
pedestrian pathways, bike lanes, and public transit, fostering social interaction, mobility,
and accessibility.
3. Educational Programming: The park offers educational programs, guided tours, and
interpretive signage that engage visitors in learning about art, ecology, and urban
history, promoting environmental stewardship and cultural appreciation.

Source- Emily Adams Source- © Seattle Yoga Newst

1. Waterfront Revitalization: Olympic Sculpture Park contributes to the revitalization
of the urban waterfront, enhancing public access, recreational opportunities, and
economic development along the shoreline.
2. Sustainable Design Practices: It incorporates sustainable design features, such as
green roofs, permeable surfaces, and energy-efficient lighting, to minimize
environmental impact and reduce carbon emissions.

Source- © Kelly Minner

.

Source- Archdaily
Millennium Park, Chicago
Location- Millennium Park is a portion of the 319-acre (129.1 ha) Grant Park, known as the
"front lawn" of downtown Chicago.

Source- © westend61
1. Integration of Art and Nature: The park seamlessly blends art installations,
architecture, and green spaces, creating a dynamic and visually appealing urban
landscape.
2. Green Infrastructure: The park incorporates sustainable design elements such as green
roofs, permeable paving, and native plantings, contributing to stormwater
management, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.
3. Iconic Landmarks: Millennium Park features iconic landmarks such as the Cloud Gate
sculpture (also known as "The Bean"), the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the Crown
Fountain, which have become symbols of the city and attract visitors from around the
world.

Source- ©Choose Chicago

1. Public Engagement and Programming: Millennium Park offers a wide range of cultural
events, performances, and educational programs that engage residents and visitors,
fostering community involvement and cultural enrichment.
2. Accessible Design: The park is designed to be accessible to people of all ages and
abilities, with ADA-compliant pathways, seating areas, and amenities, ensuring
inclusivity and equal access for everyone.

Source- ©Choose Chicago

6. Urban Connectivity: Millennium Park serves as a central hub connecting various
neighborhoods, attractions, and transportation networks in downtown Chicago,
promoting walkability, transit use, and social interaction.
7. Adaptive Reuse: The park transformed a former rail yard and parking lot into a vibrant
urban oasis, demonstrating the adaptive reuse of underutilized urban land for
recreational, cultural, and ecological purposes.
8. Economic Impact: Millennium Park has had a significant economic impact on the city,
attracting tourists, supporting local businesses, and driving real estate development in
the surrounding area.

Source- ©Choose Chicago

Source- Archdaily
High Line Park (New York
City, USA)
The High Line is a 1.45-mile-long
(2.33 km) elevated linear park,
greenway, and rail trail created on a
former New York Central Railroad spur
on the west side of Manhattan in New
York City

Source- ©Diller Scofidio + Renfro

1. Integration of Nature and Design: The park seamlessly integrates naturalistic planting
beds, grasslands, and wildflowers with innovative design features such as seating areas,
art installations, and viewing platforms, blending nature with urban amenities.
2. Ecological Restoration: The High Line incorporates sustainable design practices such as
native plantings, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems, enhancing biodiversity,
and providing habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife within a dense urban
environment.

Source- © Iwan Baan

1. Adaptive Reuse: The High Line repurposed a historic elevated railway line into a linear
park, demonstrating the adaptive reuse of urban infrastructure to create a unique public
space.
2. Community Engagement: The park was developed in collaboration with local residents,
stakeholders, and community organizations, reflecting the needs and aspirations of the
surrounding neighborhoods and fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the
community.

Source- © Iwan Baan

5. Public Access and Connectivity: The
High Line provides public access to a
formerly inaccessible industrial
structure, offering pedestrian
pathways, gathering spaces, and
panoramic views of the city skyline,
while also connecting adjacent
neighborhoods and destinations along
its route.
6. Preservation of Heritage: The park
preserves and celebrates the industrial
heritage of the West Side Rail Line,
incorporating historic elements such
as railway tracks, steel beams, and
industrial artifacts into its design,
while also reimagining its future as a
vibrant public space.

Source- ©Diller Scofidio + Renfro

Source- CN Traveler
Restoration of Cheonggyecheon River
Is a 10.9-kilometre-long (6.8 mi) stream and public space in downtown Seoul,
South Korea.
1. Urban Revitalization: The restoration of Cheonggyecheon River involved the removal
of an elevated highway and the restoration of the natural stream, transforming a
neglected urban area into a vibrant public space.
2. Integration of Nature: The project reintroduced natural elements such as flowing
water, aquatic habitats, and vegetation into the urban fabric, enhancing biodiversity
and creating a cooler microclimate in the city center.
3. Sustainable Design Practices: The restoration project employed sustainable design
principles such as water conservation, green infrastructure, and energy-efficient
lighting, reducing the environmental impact and enhancing the ecological resilience
of the river ecosystem.
1. Connectivity and Accessibility: The restored river corridor provides pedestrian
walkways, bridges, and public spaces that connect different neighborhoods and
landmarks, promoting walkability, social interaction, and access to nature.
2. Cultural Heritage Preservation: The project incorporated elements of the area's
historical and cultural heritage, including traditional Korean architecture, public art,
and interpretive signage, celebrating the river's significance in Seoul's history and
identity.
1. Economic Development: The restoration of Cheonggyecheon River has catalyzed
economic development and investment in the surrounding area, attracting tourists,
supporting local businesses, and revitalizing nearby neighborhoods.
2. Flood Control and Water Management*: The project implemented measures for flood
control and water management, including the construction of retention ponds, weirs,
and floodgates, mitigating the risk of flooding and improving water quality
downstream.
Source- Goodanthropoceces