MORPHOLOGICAL MAPPING

This course offers an introduction to the field of urban morphological analysis, and a range of mapping techniques relevant to urban design. This also entails analysis of the forces that produce urban morphology and the forms of spatial practice that are integral to it. The focus of the course is on examining how various techniques of urban mapping can creatively contribute to different urban design and planning concepts, approaches, and outcomes. The course uses the Elizabeth Street corridor (from Flinders Street Station to the Victoria Market) in central Melbourne as a laboratory for exploring these themes. This is an urban transect that slices through a range of morphological conditions, densities, spatial practices, experiences and transformational prospects. Each student visits this site on a weekly basis throughout the semester, mapping different layers of data. It is understood that not all students will commence this class with the necessary mapping skills; however, it is expected that students will be familiar with Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, or can become so within the first two weeks. Additional tutoring is provided for those who need it so that all students are able to produce basic morphological maps for presentation in digital format. Students are not assessed on graphic or IT skills during this initial phase, but the acquisition and deployment of these skills will be required for the rest of the semester.