Introduction to Urban Morphology

1. URBAN
MORPHOLOGY
By: Eskinder Negussie and Nurahmed Mensur

2. Content
 What is urban morphology
 Types of urban morphology
 gridiron
 Radial
 Clustered
 linear
 networked
 conclusion

3. Urban Morphology
 Urban morphology is the study of the physical form and shape of urban environments,
including their layout, design, and evolution over time.
 Form Refers to “type”
 Shape Refers to “physical condition or surface of something”

4. Urban Morphology
 It is a multidisciplinary field that draws on
urban planning, architecture, geography,
history, and other disciplines to
understand how cities are shaped by
various factors such as social,
economic, cultural, and political
influences.
Istanbul, Türkiye

5. Urban Morphology
Urban morphology analyzes the
spatial patterns of cities,
including the distribution of
buildings, streets, public
spaces, and transportation
systems, as well as the
relationship between the built
environment and the natural
environment. Mumbai, India

6. Urban Morphology
It also examines how urban form
affects social and economic
outcomes, such as accessibility,
livability, and sustainability.

7. TYPES OF URBAN MORPHOLOGY

8. Types of urban morphology
1. Gridiron
Gridiron: This type of urban morphology is
characterized by a regular grid pattern of
streets and blocks, often seen in cities that
were planned or designed in advance.
New York city

9. Types of urban morphology
2. Organic
Organic: This type of urban morphology is
characterized by an irregular street pattern
that has developed over time, often
following the natural topography of the
land.
Example: Barcelona city

10. Types of urban morphology
3. Radial
Radial: This type of urban morphology is
characterized by a central point from which
streets radiate outwards like spokes on a
wheel, often seen in cities that were
designed around a central landmark or
feature.
Example: Paris city

11. Types of urban morphology
4. Linear
Linear: This type of urban morphology is
characterized by a long, narrow shape with
development along a single axis, such as a
river or highway.
Example: Los Angeles city, USA

12. Types of urban morphology
5. Clustered
Clustered: This type of urban morphology is
characterized by buildings and structures
grouped closely together, often seen in
historic city centers or areas with limited
space for expansion.
Example Venice city, Italy

13. Types of urban morphology
6. Networked
Networked: This type of urban morphology
is characterized by a complex network of
streets and paths that connect different
areas and neighborhoods within the city.
Example Tokyo city, Japan

14. Conclusion
Overall, the study of urban morphology is essential to understanding the
development and function of cities, and to designing urban environments
that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

15. THANK YOU!!