Download to read offline
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OVERVIEW OF
7 PRINCIPLES
[1] PRIVACY [2] COMMUNITY
[5] TRANSITION [6] PEDESTRIAN
In residential areas, private or semiprivate areas that
can be personalized provide the residents with a space
to withdraw, and a sense of ownership
Shared outdoor space and the public realm are crucial
to create the desired sense of community livability. The
outdoor space should feel as an extension of the living
room, serve a variety of activities and be the force that
defines the architecture at its borders.
Designing boundaries as “soft edges”, (Gehl, 1987)
can benefit the overall sense of place by serving as an
integrating feature rather than a separating boundary.
A well thought out edge can help blur, overlap and
integrate the different uses and spaces.
The provision of elements design to match the size and
speed at which humans walks will help the space feel
more welcoming. Building and surface details, sense of
enclosure and elements that responds to the residents
needs are some examples.](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/492cb669-e019-431c-9c7f-f308c5b179e6-170118061827/85/Abbud_Capstone_Urban-Design_Toolkit-3-320.jpg)
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[3] COMPLEXITY [4] LEGIBILITY
[7] LIVELINESS
Interesting and complex to look places refer back to
the visual richness of a place. The variety of physical
attributes all contribute to the overall quality of the
public realm and how it is perceived.
Understanding the environment around us is an
integral part of enjoying the space. In a residential a
setting with shared open space, a clear distinction
between public, private and shared space is crucial.
An active space is a livable place. Ensuring the
provision of spaces that support different type of
activities are crucial for a sense of community and
livability. Contributing to the overall use of a space, and
therefore to the making of a “place”.](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/492cb669-e019-431c-9c7f-f308c5b179e6-170118061827/85/Abbud_Capstone_Urban-Design_Toolkit-4-320.jpg)
Abbud_Capstone_Urban-Design_Toolkit
- 2. RESIDENTIAL URBAN DESIGN TOOLKIT 7 PRINCIPLESFOR INCREASING COMMUNITY LIVABILITY IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING DESIGN CAPSTONE PROJECT FOR NORTHEAST DENVER HOUSING CENTER BY JESUS FERNANDO ABBUD
- 3. 18 OVERVIEW OF 7 PRINCIPLES [1]PRIVACY [2] COMMUNITY [5] TRANSITION [6] PEDESTRIAN In residential areas, private or semiprivate areas that can be personalized provide the residents with a space to withdraw, and a sense of ownership Shared outdoor space and the public realm are crucial to create the desired sense of community livability. The outdoor space should feel as an extension of the living room, serve a variety of activities and be the force that defines the architecture at its borders. Designing boundaries as “soft edges”, (Gehl, 1987) can benefit the overall sense of place by serving as an integrating feature rather than a separating boundary. A well thought out edge can help blur, overlap and integrate the different uses and spaces. The provision of elements design to match the size and speed at which humans walks will help the space feel more welcoming. Building and surface details, sense of enclosure and elements that responds to the residents needs are some examples.
- 4. 19 [3] COMPLEXITY [4]LEGIBILITY [7] LIVELINESS Interesting and complex to look places refer back to the visual richness of a place. The variety of physical attributes all contribute to the overall quality of the public realm and how it is perceived. Understanding the environment around us is an integral part of enjoying the space. In a residential a setting with shared open space, a clear distinction between public, private and shared space is crucial. An active space is a livable place. Ensuring the provision of spaces that support different type of activities are crucial for a sense of community and livability. Contributing to the overall use of a space, and therefore to the making of a “place”.
- 5. 20 HOW TO USETHE TOOLKIT PURPOSE This toolkit is part of a Capstone Project submitted in partial satisfaction of the requirements for the degree of Master of Urban and Regional Planning, College of Architecture and Planning, University of Colorado Denver on 05/12/2016. The project was made for Northeast Denver Housing Center (NDHC), an affordable housing non-profit in Denver, CO. NDHC is looking to develop a high, transit oriented development (TOD) affordable housing project in Stapleton. Current design concepts for the site see a possibility for the space between the buildings and between the street and the buildings to become more than an afterthought. Current practices are becoming more aware of the importance of the public realm, yet shared outdoor space in residential development is often an afterthought. Consequently, producing ill-shaped, unused spaces that detract, rather than contribute to livability of the community and the overall public realm. The purpose of this project is to look into which urban design principles and qualities can help improve the shared outdoors space and public realm for this project with the ultimate goal of increasing the community livability. Understanding there is no single urban design principle or intervention that will acomplish this goal, but rather a combination of different principles; this project provides a toolkit of 7 urban design principles and their respective interventions, focusing on residential urban design. This project, and its toolkit, hopes to serve as a framework during the concept development phase to help compare different urban design solutions and their respective value added and cost. Hopefully placing shared open space and the public realm as an organizing feature of the overall design process. Therefore, fulfilling what the purpose of urban IMPORTANCE The discussion around affordable housing in the Denver metro area is becoming increasingly urgent as the population grows and home ownership and rental prices continue to increase.While the demand for affordable housing units continues to grow, some of the barriers like reduction in federal, state and local funding sources, expensive and complex regulations, and negative perceptions of affordable housing continue to increase. Not enough attention is given to the role design plays in the development process and how it can benefit the project and hopefully facilitate the development of high-quality, decent affordable housing. While NDHC continues to address the need of quality affordable housing for the growing population of the Denver metro area with the development of this site. This capstone project seeks to support their efforts by looking into urban design low cost strategies that can add value to the project and the neighborhood as a whole. Since the value that design brings is often subjective and difficult to measure. The development of the toolkit seeks to fulfil the need to be able to measure and communicate the value design brings into a project in comparison to the cost.
- 6. 21 STEP STEP STEP 2322 IncreasIng communIty lIvabIlIty throughurban DesIgn why Is It ImportantInterventIons PRIVACY ADDING 1.1 Private Front Garden/ Yard 1.2 Private Articulated Entrance 1.3 Personalization opportunity 1.4 Privacy Screening 1.5 Informal Surveillance 1.6 Balcony Overlook In residential areas, private or semiprivate areas that can be personalized provide the residents with a space to withdraw, and a sense of ownership • Private open space provide a functional, sym- bolical and physiological purpose and benefits (Alexander, C. 1977) • The garden needs a certain degree of privacy, yet also wants some kind of connection to the street and entrance. (C. Alexander, 546). • Private entrances and footpath from the sidewalk to the door are closely associated with images of home (Cooper, 75). • Each subunit should have some elements of uniqueness to create a sense of place and identity (Cooper, 57) • Inclusion or addition of private open space has distinct payoffs in increased resident satisfaction and lower maintenance costs (Cooper, 67) • Visual privacy is more important that auditory privacy (Cooper,99) • Residents generally prefer to see outside with- out letting outsiders see into their whole space (Cooper, 99) • Use planting to enhance the privacy of ground-lev- el dwellings • Make sure that at least part of the space is not overlooked from next door (Bently, 68) 2524 PRIVACY PRIVACY PRIVACY PRIVACY PRIVACY PRIVACY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMPLEXITY COMPLEXITY COMPLEXITY COMPLEXITY COMPLEXITY COMPLEXITY LEGIBILITY LEGIBILITY LEGIBILITY LEGIBILITY LEGIBILITY LEGIBILITY TRANSITION TRANSITION TRANSITION TRANSITION TRANSITION TRANSITION PEDESTRIAN PEDESTRIAN PEDESTRIAN PEDESTRIAN PEDESTRIAN PEDESTRIAN LIVELINESS LIVELINESS LIVELINESS LIVELINESS LIVELINESS LIVELINESS A clear distinction of the front entrance creates a strong images of home. This can be achieved with ornamentation, grade changes or with a clear strong path leading to the entrance. The orientation of buildings, entry placement, window and interior layout of the buildings in relation to the shared open space is crucial. A space surrounded by buildings benefits the sense of safety and community. Personalization and unique identity are especially important win multi-unit developments with similar units. Small details can make a big difference. For example the front entrance is a good place to allow for each unit to be personalize. In the case of multi-story buildings and especially when there are balconies present, careful attention should be place on creating private first floor spaces that are not overlooked by nearby balconies. The front garden or yard creates a sense of responsibility and ownership. It provides a space for activities to happen as well as an activity to be observed. In addition it represents a space that can be personalized and to showcase identity. Privacy screening can be achieved through a variety of ways. Planting and fences that have some openings are preferable than solid screening to allow views into the outside of the space. 1.1 PRIVATE FRONT GARDEN/YARD 1.2 PRIVATE ARTICULATED ENTRANCE 1.3 PERSONALIZATION OPPORTUNITY 1.4 PRIVACY SCREENING 1.5 INFORMAL SURVEILLANCE 1.6 BALCONY OVERLOOK Side Garden Planting Color Window Placement Windows/Doors Overhead screen Planters/Flowers Fence w/ opening Grade change Wall trellis Protected by Wall Trellis Screen Ornamentation Entry along path Entrance Division Fenced Grade difference Path Mailbox PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR PR CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX CX LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE LE TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR TR PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE PE LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI LI 1.1 PRIVATE FRONT GARDEN/YARD 2.1 ACTIVE BUILDING FRONTS 3.1 CONTRASTING FLOOR SURFACES 4.1 HIERARCHY OF SPACE 2.2 SMALL COMMON AREAS 3.2 VARIED MATERIAL & ARRANGEMENT 4.2 FRONT & BACK SEPARATION 1.2 PRIVATE ARTICULATED ENTRANCE 2.3 LINK TO CONTEXT 3.3 HORIZONTAL/VERTICAL 1.3 PERSONALIZATION OPPORTUNITY 2.4 VISIBLE ENTRY 3.4 COLOR 1.4 PRIVACY SCREENING 2.5 CLEAR ACCESS TO COMMON SPACE 3.5 FACADE ARTICULATION 1.5 INFORMAL SURVEILLANCE 1.6 BALCONY OVERLOOK 2.6 SITE ENTRY DELINEATION 3.6 DETAIL/VISUAL RIDDLES 5.1 EDGE TREATMENT ACTIVITIES OF THE GROUND 5.2 FAMILY OF ENTRANCES 6.1 DESIGNED FOOTPATH SYSTEM “HOME BASE” AREA 5.3 ENTRANCE TRANSITION CHILDREN ON THE LANDSCAPE 4.3 PUBLIC/PRIVATE DELINEATION 6.2 YARD AMENITIES OUTDOOR SEATING ENVIRONMENT 4.4 DISTINCT THEME 5.4 STREET ENGAGEMENT 6.3 GROUND SHAPING SPACES FOR CONTACT ACTIVITIES 6.4 SPACE ENCLOSURE SHARED STREETS 4.5 NODES COMMUNITY COMPLEXITY LEGIBILITY TRANSITION PEDESTRIAN LIVELINESS PRIVACY PRIVACYCOMMUNITYCOMPLEXITYLEGIBILITYTRANSITIONPEDESTRIANLIVELINESS CONCEPT NAME: TOTAL: Concept # 1 10 11 6 13 8 11 6 22 1 2 3 GET FAMILIAR WITH THE PRINCIPLE OVERVIEW READ THROUGH THE DIFFERENT INTERVENTIONS USE SCORESHEET TO COMPARE THE VALUE ADDED AND COST BETWEEN DIFFERENT ITERATIONS Principle name and logo. list of interventions Intervention name and description Value added (Principles that thouches on) and cost estimate (High-Mid-Low) Principles each intervention touches on an cost estimate Interventions grouped by the 7 principlesSteps 1. Select at least one intervention per principle and makr the box to the left of its name 2. Highlight or circle selected intervention rows 3. Count to the number of times each principle was touched upon and the total number of dollar signs 4. Repeat process with another design concept and compare overall value added and cost Total times each principle was used and total cost estimate per iteration Application examples what experts say about this principle
- 7. 22 Increasing community livability throughUrban Design why is it importantinterventions PRIVACY ADDING 1.1 Private Front Garden/ Yard 1.2 Private Articulated Entrance 1.3 Personalization opportunity 1.4 Privacy Screening 1.5 Informal Surveillance 1.6 Balcony Overlook In residential areas, private or semiprivate areas that can be personalized provide the residents with a space to withdraw, and a sense of ownership • Private open space provide a functional, sym- bolical and physiological purpose and benefits (Alexander, C. 1977) • The garden needs a certain degree of privacy, yet also wants some kind of connection to the street and entrance. (C. Alexander, 546). • Private entrances and footpath from the sidewalk to the door are closely associated with images of home (Cooper, 75). • Each subunit should have some elements of uniqueness to create a sense of place and identity (Cooper, 57) • Inclusion or addition of private open space has distinct payoffs in increased resident satisfaction and lower maintenance costs (Cooper, 67) • Visual privacy is more important that auditory privacy (Cooper,99) • Residents generally prefer to see outside with- out letting outsiders see into their whole space (Cooper, 99) • Use planting to enhance the privacy of ground-lev- el dwellings • Make sure that at least part of the space is not overlooked from next door (Bently, 68)
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- 9. 24 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS A clear distinctionof the front entrance creates a strong images of home. This can be achieved with ornamentation, grade changes or with a clear strong path leading to the entrance. Personalization and unique identity are especially important win multi-unit developments with similar units. Small details can make a big difference. For example the front entrance is a good place to allow for each unit to be personalize. The front garden or yard creates a sense of responsibility and ownership. It provides a space for activities to happen as well as an activity to be observed. In addition it represents a space that can be personalized and to showcase identity. 1.1 PRIVATE FRONT GARDEN/YARD 1.2 PRIVATE ARTICULATED ENTRANCE 1.3 PERSONALIZATION OPPORTUNITY Side Garden Color Windows/Doors Planters/Flowers Grade change Wall trellis Protected by Wall Ornamentation Entrance Fenced Path Mailbox
- 10. 25 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS The orientation ofbuildings, entry placement, window and interior layout of the buildings in relation to the shared open space is crucial. A space surrounded by buildings benefits the sense of safety and community. In the case of multi-story buildings and especially when there are balconies present, careful attention should be place on creating private first floor spaces that are not overlooked by nearby balconies. Privacy screening can be achieved through a variety of ways. Planting and fences that have some openings are preferable than solid screening to allow views into the outside of the space. 1.4 PRIVACY SCREENING 1.5 INFORMAL SURVEILLANCE 1.6 BALCONY OVERLOOK Planting Window Placement Overhead screen Fence w/ opening Trellis Screen Entry along path Division Grade difference
- 11. 26 Increasing community livability throughUrban Design why is it importantinterventions COMMUNITY ADDING 2.1 Active Building Fronts 2.2 Small Common Areas at Heart 2.3 Context Inclusion 2.4 Visible Main Entrance 2.5 Visual/Functional Acess to Shared Space 2.6 Site Entry Delineation Shared outdoor space and the public realm are crucial to create the desired sense of community livability. The outdoor space should feel as an extension of the living room, serve a variety of activities and be the force that defines the architecture at its borders. • To increase robustness, the edge between buildings and public space must be designed to enable a range of indoor private activities to co- exist in close physical proximity with a range of outdoor public activities. (Bently, 69) • Without common land no social system can sur- vive (C. Alexander, 337). • There is a need for smaller and more private kinds of common land shared by few families (C. Alexan- der, 337). • Exterior space should be the force that gives definition to the architecture at its borders, estab- lishing the walls of the outdoor room (Trancik, R. 1986) • Placing the main entrance is perhaps the single most important step you take during the evolution of a building plan (C. Alexander, 541) • When entering via a narrowed-down access point, outsiders are unlikely to mistake the interior space for a neighborhood park or public playground and likely to perceive it as a semi-private territory
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- 13. 28 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS As Christopher Alexandersays “common land is the heart and soul of any cluster”. Small spaces should be close to a path, or the intersection of paths, In addition, it should have clear definition as a special place Making sure the overall project fits into the context is important not only for project acceptance within the neighborhood. But to do its part and contribute towards the overall public realm. Providing spaces such as porches, balconies, or even places to sit outside can help activate the outdoor space. Even elements that denote activity, such as paths or furniture contribute even when the activity is not taking place 2.1 ACTIVE BUILDING FRONTS 2.2 SMALL COMMON AREAS AT THE HEART 2.3 CONTEXT INCLUSION Balcony Next to path Feature repetition Small area to sit Defined area Porch Outdoor room smaller spaces Links Many entrances
- 14. 29 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS Ensuring windows lookat a variety of activity and scenery, making it convenient to take things outside, or even having some storage, can contribute to the use of outdoor space. The clear distinction between the public realm and a shared open space by delineation narrow entry points can help mark the space as semi-private. Therefore encouraging resident use of the space. Ensuring that the building entrance is visible from the nearest public path and the entrance placement are important factor especially for visitors. Higher levels, clear address number, or special markers can help. 2.4 VISIBLE MAIN ENTRANCE 2.5 CLEAR FUNCTIONAL ACCESS TO SHARED SPACE SITE ENTRY DELINEATION Address on path Storage Low wall Entry Markers Leading Path View from window Overhead Portal Entry Points
- 15. 30 Increasing community livability throughUrban Design why is it importantinterventions COMPLEXITY ADDING 3.1 Contrasting Floor Surfaces 3.2 Varied Material and Arrangement 3.3 Horizontal/Vertical Projections 3.4 Color 3.5 Facade Articulation 3.6 Detail Visual Riddles Interesting and complex to look places refer back to the visual richness of a place. The variety of physical attributes all contribute to the overall quality of the public realm and how it is perceived. • Complexity is related to the number noticeable differences to which a viewer is exposed per unit time (Ewing, R. 2009. p. 79) • A place has high imageability when specific physical elements and their arrangement capture attention, evoke feelings, and create a lasting impression. (Ewing, R. 2013. p. 5) • A series of connected, medium sized spaces of varying shape and appearance is more suitable than one large or several identical spaces (Cooper, 124). • A building cannot be a human building unless it is a complex of still smaller buildings or smaller parts which manifest its own internal social facts (C. Alexander, 469). • Horizontal projections are important when people are walking parallel to the building. Vertical pro- jections increase the richness from further away. (Bently,93) • Treatment of details is a crucial factor in usability of outdoor spaces. When carefully detail, outdoor spaces stand a good change of being functional and popular. (Gehl, J 1987. p. 130)
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- 17. 32 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS Varying the typeof material, its texture, position or ar- rangement can help create more visually rich places. This is especially important on the street facing facades in order to contribute to the overall public realm. Horizontal projections are more effective for slow moving and close audiences. Vertical Projections are intended to be seen by fast moving further away audiences. Both type of projections are more important on street facing facades. Variety of floor surfaces, can be an easy to implement inter- vention that provides great flexibility. In addition to adding complexity it can also serve legibility and a pedestrian scale to the place. 3.1 CONTRASTING FLOOR SURFACES 3.2 VARIED MATERIAL AND ARRANGEMENT 3.3 HORIZONTAL/VERTICAL PROJECTIONS Concrete scoring different materials Horizontal Pavers different color Floor separation Concrete color Material layout Vertical Different surfaces Other use
- 18. 33 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS The articulation ofthe facade adds to the visual richness of the place. It also creates niches sometimes preferred as places to personalize, stand, sit and observe. As Jan Gehl states “one is partially present and may withdraw if needed” The purpose of ornamentation and detail remains the same throughout time. As Christopher Alexander explains “to make the world more whole by knitting it together”. It should be carefully designed to fill a gap. Color can be a simple, yet effective way of adding visual richness. Color can be applied on a variety of ways in order to achieve different results that include, a distinct theme, personalization, and delineation. 3.4 COLOR 3.5 FACADE ARTICULATION 3.6 DETAIL/VISUAL RIDDLES Floor Inside fence Personalization Awning entry point articulation Outside Corners Art
- 19. 34 Increasing community livability throughUrban Design why is it importantinterventions LEGIBILITY ADDING 4.1 Hierarchy of Space 4.2 Front and Back Separation 4.3 Public/Private Delineation 4.4 Distinct Theme 4.5 Nodes Understanding the environment around us is an integral part of enjoying the space. In a residential a setting with shared open space, a clear distinction between public, private and shared space is crucial. • Main outdoor spaces can be refine by making certain that every psace always has a view out into some other larger ore, and that all the spaces work together to form hierarchies (C. Alexander, 558) • If the front is given over to the street life, then the back can be reserved for quite.(Alexander, C.) • Most people feel a deep need to know where their domain ends and another begins (Cooper, 29) • People need and identifiable spatial unit to belong to (C. Alexander, 81) • What is needed is a framework which is just enough defined so that people naturally tend to stop there. (C. Alexander, 349). • Space relation problems can be avoid if a hier- archical development from public to private are envisioned (Cooper, 39) • A small space can also help generate a node, by its mere existence, provided that is correctly place along the intersection of the paths which people use most often (C. Alexander, 311).
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- 21. 36 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS The distinction andprovision for spaces that serve as the front and the back can help increase the overall activity of the site. Different activities might require a different more privacy and a different type of space. This is one of the most important interventions. Especially in multifamily projects that engage the street. The clear distinction of what is public, private and shared might direct the amount of activities that happen outside. Having different spaces clearly identified and understanding the relationship between them can help the circulation and movement throughout the space. 4.1 HIERARCHY OF SPACE 4.2 FRONT AND BACK SEPARATION 4.3 PUBLIC/PRIVATE DELINEATION Connected spaces Back area - quiet Markers internal spaces Planting Big/Small spaces Front area - Life Fencing surface
- 22. 37 PRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESS The provision ofnodes and places for stationary activities should be encouraged. The intersections of paths, or along the paths is a good place for their location. Even though monotony is avoided and personalization is encouraged, the sense of belonging to a greater whole is an important factor in creating community. 4.4 DISTINCT THEME 4.5 NODES Windows Nodes next to path Object Rythms Horz/Vert Rythms Path cuts node
- 23. 38 Increasing community livability throughUrban Design why is it importantinterventions TRANSITION ADDING 5.1 Edge Treatment 5.2 Family of Entrances 5.3 Entrance Transition 5.4 Street Engagement Designing boundaries as “soft edges”, (Gehl, 1987) can benefit the overall sense of place by serving as an integrating feature rather than a separating boundary. A well thought out edge can help blur, overlap and integrate the different uses and spaces. • Because of the diversity of the activites, there is a need for a space which has a subtle balance of being defined and yet not too defined, so that any activity can develop freely. (C. Alexander, 349). • Semiprivate front yard in the transitional zone are an important place for stationary activities. (Gehl, J, 1987. p. 189) • It is not accident that so many of the patterns in this pattern language concern the importance of the boundaries (C. Alexander, 1148). • Provide a series of transition filter for pedestrians passing from public spaces to the private domain of the dwelling (Cooper, 78) • If the transition is too abrupt there is no feeling of arrival (C. Alexander, 549) • Path-Portal-Place: Edward White’s (1999) take on the sense of arrival and its different components. • The entrance itself should be design so it is as easy to pass through as possible, both functionally and psychologically (Gehl, 185) • The old front porch in traditional American society solved this problem perfectly (C. Alexander, 665)
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- 25. 40 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS Having several entrancestogether will make the edge more permeable. The entrance itself denotes activity. In addition, spaces right outside the entrances that encourage activities to be brought outside should be provided. The entrance itself is a transition between the public and the private realm. The experience leading up to the entrance is important as well. Edward White highlights path-portal-place as importance components of the sense of arrival. Mentioned several times throughout the research, the importance edges cannot be overstated. Edges become the places where uses, and activities overlap. The space should support an encourage a variety of activities 5.1 EDGE TREATMENT 5.2 FAMILY OF ENTRANCES 5.3 ENTRANCE TRANSITION Overlap Own Path Change in direction Activity at edge Gate Layers Low fence Shared Path Change in elev.
- 26. 41 PRIVACY COMMUNITY COMPLEXITY LEGIBILITY TRANSITION PEDESTRIAN LIVELINESS Recently, many buildingsfacing the street do not address the street properly, detracting from the overall public realm. Making sure there is activity, complexity, and legibility will help this edge become more active. 5.4 STREET ENGAGEMENT2nd floor Use of Public realm Orientation
- 27. 42 Increasing community livability throughUrban Design why is it importantinterventions PEDESTRIAN VIEW ADDING 6.1 Designed Footpath System 6.2 Yard Amenities 6.3 Ground Shaping 6.4 Space Enclosure The provision of elements design to match the size and speed at which humans walks will help the space feel more welcoming. Building and surface details, sense of enclosure and elements that responds to the residents needs are some examples. • Street trees can moderate the scale of tall build- ings and wide streets (Ewing, 2013). • Human scale can also be defined by human speed (Ewing, 2013). • Different types of space (Gehl, 1987): • Public distance: >12 feet • Social distance: 4.5-12 feet • Personal distance: 1.5-4.5 feet • Intimate distance: 0-1.5 feet • Triangulation and something to look and talk about are important factors (Whyte, H. W.). • Niches are popular places in which to stand, offering an attractive semipublic semiprivate situation (Gehl, 153) • Outdoor spaces are defined and shaped by ver- tical elements, which interrupt viewers’ lines of sight. (Ewing, 2013) • An outdoor space is positive when it has a distinct and definite shape (Alexander, C)
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- 29. 44 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS The provision ofamenities within the yard might help res- idents make use of the space. Amenities such as a grill or hangout are, pedestrian lighting, and storage are some examples. The variety on ground surfaces and terrains can help provide a variety of spaces for activities to happen. In addition, the use of the landscape can also help define different areas. Careful design should be placed on the design of the path system and what is around it. The path should be place close enough to the private realm without intruding on the privacy. 6.1 DESIGNED FOOTPATH SYSTEM 6.2 YARD AMENITIES 6.3 GROUND SHAPING things to look at Lighting Enclosed Well designed path Grill Ground integrationStorm water design
- 30. 45 PRIVACY COMMUNITY COMPLEXITY LEGIBILITY TRANSITION PEDESTRIAN LIVELINESS The enclosure ofa place relates the height-width proportion of a space. Outdoor spaces should strive to be positive spaces by having some sense of enclosure and definition. 6.4 SPACE ENCLOSURELandscape Arch elements Buildings
- 31. 46 Increasing community livability throughUrban Design why is it importantinterventions LIVELINESS ADDING 7.1 Activities of the Ground 7.2 “Home Base” Area 7.3 Children on the Landscape 7.4 Outdoor Seating 7.5 Space for Contact Activities 7.6 Shared Streets An active space is a livable place. Ensuring the provision of spaces that support different type of activities are crucial for a sense of community and livability. Contributing to the overall use of a space, and therefore to the making of a “place”. • Three tyepes of activities: Necesary activities, optional activities, and social activities. (Gehl, J. 1987) • Three types of residential activities: Process activity, physical activity, and transitional activity (Zhang, 2009) • For the purpose of having a place where hanging out and being “out” in public. For this reason it is necessary to distinguish one part of the common land and to define it with a little more elaboration (C. Alexander, 349). • Low fences at the street side provide clear de- lineation of the semiprivate zones towards the street, as well as good places to stand for a chat. (Gehl, J 1987) • The most popular places to sit can be found at the edges of open spaces, where the sitter’s back is protected, the view unobstruted (Gehl, J. 1987. p.156). • Children are rarely engaged for long in any one activity. They like secluded places to hide in, and they like to explore the natural world (Cooper,
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- 33. 48 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS Sometimes, having aspecific are defined or different from the rest of the space can help denote special nature of that space. Leaving the area customizable for the residents to imprint their own identity can help create more ownership. The provision of spaces for children to play close to the units are crucial. Having the ability to look out the window and see the kids is not only beneficial for the adults. They kids when they see other kids playing are enticed to go outside. It is important to provide spaces that extend the activities outside. However, in order for those spaces to be use more, sometimes a slight elevation can help delimitate the space and therefore, increase its use. 7.1 ACTIVITIES OF THE GROUND 7.2 “HOME BASE” AREA 7.3 CHILDREN ON THE LANDSCAPE Balconies Outdoor gather Formal Play Elevated porch Outdoor Play Informal play
- 34. 49 PRIVACYPRIVACYPRIVACY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY COMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITYCOMPLEXITY LEGIBILITYLEGIBILITYLEGIBILITY TRANSITIONTRANSITIONTRANSITION PEDESTRIANPEDESTRIANPEDESTRIAN LIVELINESSLIVELINESSLIVELINESS Providing spaces thatallow for contact, or physical activities will increase the sense of community. Having common areas and well defined areas will help residents meet each other. The use of the streets as something more than just for cars will help extend the overall outdoor space and the variety of uses it can support. Subtle delimitation teqniques can help the street become more than just an empty alley A variety of seating opportunities, and the quality of the seating environment is important. People will sit where there is a place to sit. (Whyte). A protected back and something to look at will increase its use. 7.4 OUTDOOR SEATING 7.5 SPACES FOR CONTACT ACTIVITIES 7.6 SHARED STREETS Primary seating Common areas Bollards Common mailbox Hard play surfaces Secondary seating Fences Pavers as markers back doors