Urban Design 201 Session: Part 1

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• How to identify practices in urban design that affect walkability, the perception of safety, and economic vitality
• Specific urban-design details for both the public and private realm and their contextual metrics for success
• How to assess and identify opportunities for community improvement to promote walkability and vibrancy

MORE SESSION DETAILS

This session is the first of two separate sessions held over two consecutive days. Part lecture, part laboratory, this session will include three critical hands-on components. First, we’ll explore the timeless principles of urban design from unique perspectives. We’ll cover urban design through history, the long-term trends guiding the preferences towards urbanism, the nuts-and-bolts of designing great places – from the block and the building to the curb and the patio – and, finally, public-policy implications that promote or discourage great urban design. After the session concludes, participates will be encouraged to visit a local neighborhood on their own and use the newfound lessons to identify examples of where urban design has hit the target and where it has missed the mark. After you have had a chance to tour the neighborhood, attend the second session to participate in an exercise applying the urban-design techniques discussed in this first session and explore and learn some quick drawing techniques. Whether you are new to design or are looking to adapt the latest techniques, this two-part session will deliver an abundance of practical and thought-provoking information and skills that you can bring back to your community.