Vernacular Urbanism

VERNACULAR URBANISM: Restructuring the image of a city in the globalizing world.

Snehal Sanjay Oswal

This dissertation is submitted in part fulfilment of the regulations for the MA in Urban Design.

Department of Planning Oxford Brookes University 2017.

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“These bodies are perishable, but the dwellers in these are indestructible and impenetrable.’’

-Bhagvad Gita

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Abstract:

This research intends to introduce the term of vernacular urbanism in context to the issues of globalization and loss in

place identity. The aim of the research is to define a frame structure based on the concept of vernacular urbanism, which is further used to analyse a city’s urban fabric. Globalization is promoting homogeneity in identity all over the world, thus making the world feel single entity.

The identity of a city generates from human psyche based on tangible and intangible factors forming a city. In order

to retain or restructure the unique image of any region or city, the best possible place to find the answer would be its local surrounding. The vernacular of a region gives the area its distinctiveness, thus making each city, town, village or region stand out in its own way.

An attempt of deriving vernacular factors affecting a city’s fabric from those affecting the architecture of a city is dis-

played in the research, in conclusion of which a list of relevant factors have been discussed further in this paper.

The research uses a contextually modified version of Sinek’s theory of golden circle in order to evaluate a city against the proposed frame structure of vernacular urbanism. It also discusses and suggests the best possible way of designing with a sensitive outlook towards concepts of place identity, place making and sense of belonging.

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(Word Count: 16,500)

Acknowledgement:

It has been an enriching experience of learning throughout the dissertation completed at Oxford Brookes University.

In this course of learning I would like to thank and express my gratitude to those who have supported me, guided me and motivated me till the end.

I would like to thank my professor and guide, Prof. Regina Lim, for showing immense confidence in me and my topic

and guiding me through this process. This thesis would have not reached this stage without her support.

I would like to thank my parents and sister for believing in me and inspiring me from far land, and trying to keep my

spirits high when I got stuck in my research.

Subhash I would like to thank you for your immense and unending support throughout the paper, right until the last

bit. Thank you for pushing me hard to stretch my limits and for being patient throughout.

Lastly I would like to thank my friends for bearing with me in this intense period of work, and persuading me to try

hard.

-Snehal Sanjay Oswal.

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List of Images Fig 1.1a– Skyline of cities. Source: http://ml.theindiantruth.com/featured/18765, https://zpravy.aktualne.cz/burdz-chalifa-v-dubaji/r~7da3ff7ed8b811e6b13b 002590604f2e/r~13423856d8b511e683bb002590604f2e/?redirected=1507319080, http://www.mathapplets.net/, http://www.ounousa.com/Details/22577 Fig 1.1b– Skyline of identified cities Source: http://ml.theindiantruth.com/featured/18765, https://zpravy.aktualne.cz/burdz-chalifa-v-dubaji/r~7da3f-

f7ed8b811e6b13b002590604f2e/r~13423856d8b511e683bb002590604f2e/?redirected=1507319080, http://www.mathapplets.net/, http://www.ounousa.com/Details/22577

Fig 2.1-Narrow streets of Jaisalmer, Source: http://www.picstoc.com/user/architails/1926334349/1248466523518139121_1926334349 Fig 2.2 -Stepped streets of Santorini, Source: http://luniversdines.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/mediterranean-style.html Fig 2.3 -“Blue City”, Jodhpur, Source: http://dailybraille.co.uk/travel/article-2650888/From-microscopic-New-York-desert-looks-like-Mars-incredible-aerial-photos-Earth-youve-NEVER-seen-before.

Fig 2.4 -Aerial view, Rome, Source: http://ml.theindiantruth.com/featured/18765, https://zpravy.aktualne.cz/burdz-chalifa-v-dubaji/r~7da3ff7ed-

8b811e6b13b002590604f2e/r~13423856d8b511e683bb002590604f2e/?redirected=1507319080, http://www.mathapplets.net/, http://www.ounousa.com/Details/22577

Fig 2.5 -Ghats of Varanasi, Source: https://rashidfaridi.com/2011/05/28/varanasi-an-old-city-of-india-and-an-enigma/ Fig 2.6 -Katas of Pune, Source: Author Fig 2.7 -Cafes of Paris, Source: https://erasmusu.com/en/erasmus-paris/erasmus-experiences/paris-is-burning-79611 Fig 2.8 -Trams of Prague, Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g274707-i204791388-Prague_Bohemia.html Fig 2.9 -Dharavi, Mumbai, Source: http://slideplayer.com/slide/6218458/ Fig 2.10–Example of Land Typology. Source: http://www.nordregio.se/en/Maps/05-Environment-and-energy/Land-Use--Urban- rope/

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Rural-Typology-in-Eu-

Fig 2.11–Example of Land Distribution.Source: https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/london-plan/current-london-plan/london-plan-chapter-four-londons-economy/policy

Fig 2.12–Urban core maps of Lyon and Pittsburgh.Source: https://metrhispanic.com/tag/cadastre/ Fig 2.13–Conceptual of Street Character.Source: http://www.inthecitycanberra.com.au/constitution-avenue-upgrade-work-ow-underway/ Fig 2.14–Street Hierarchy on Griffin Plan.Source: https://www.cityplan.act.gov.au/community-engagement/discussion-papers/transport-and-movement/ discussion-paper-2-transport-and-

Fig 2.15-Types of Street Pattern, Source: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/publications/en/rh-pr/tech/socio75.html Fig 2.16–Street Façade Character.Source: http://wmb-roi.com/collaborations/municipal_public/cleveland-street-cra-facade-design/ Fig 2.17–Public Space Character.Source: https://www.architonic.com/en/story/alyn-griffiths-park-life-the-evolving-approach-to-designing-urban-publicspace/7000669

Fig 2.18–Kevin Lynch’s Image of the City.Source: https://za.pinterest.com/pin/489977634441489207/ Fig 2.19-Walkability in Neighbourhood, Source: Author Fig 3.1-A circuit diagram showing structure of thesis, Source: Author Fig 3.3 -Generic analysis frame structure, Source: Author Fig 3.4 -Hypothetical analysis frame structure, Source: Author Fig 3.6 & 3.9- Research Issue , Source: Author Fig 3.7-Golden Circle as Documentation Tool, Source: Author

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Fig 3.8-Golden Circle as Design Tool, Source: Author Fig 4.1-Character of the City, Source: Author Fig4.2-Skyline of Venice, Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/over-new-of-city-on-body-of-water-67946/ Fig4.7-old alley in san polo, Venice, Source: Author Fig4.8-internal road in san polo, Source: Author Fig4.9-Grand Canal , Source: art gallery, Venice Fig4.10-Image of canals in san polo, Source: Author Fig4.12-grand canal and its edge in Santa croce, Source: Author Fig4.13-Parking in Santa Croce, Source: Author Fig4.14-Bus station of Venice, Source: Author Fig4.15-Train Station in venice, Source: Author Fig4.17-internal street in canneregio, Source: Author Fig4.18 -Aerial view of canneregio, Source: Author Fig4.19-set backs in plots of canneregio, Source: Author Fig4.20-typical plots in old san polo, Source: Author Fig4.21-old grand canal , Source: art gallery, Venice

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Fig4.22-internal canal, Source: Author Fig4.23-abandoned openings from waterway, Source: Author Fig4.25-water ambulance, Source: Author Fig4.26-aerial view of vehicular entry on island, Source: art gallery, Venice Fig4.27-private boats, Source: Author Fig4.28-typical layout in canneregio, Source: Author Fig4.29-internal streets, Source: Author Fig4.30-streets along the edge of water Source: Author Fig4.31-internal courtyards, Source: Author Fig4.32-Old identity of grand canal, Source: art gallery, Venice Fig4.33-vehicular motor way in venice, Source: Author Fig4.34-romanticised gondolas, Source: Author Fig4.35-stone bridge, Source: Author Fig4.36-wooden bridge, Source: Author Fig4.37-metal bridge, Source: Author Fig4.38-internal narrow alleys, Source: Author

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Fig4.39-abandoned waterway entry, Source: Author Fig4.40-internal campo or court, Source: Author Fig4.41-Skyline of Paris, Source: https://www.centerforstudyabroad.com/catholic-university-of-paris/ Fig4.46-old identity of la marais, Source: montmartre art gallery Fig4.47-corner plots, Source: Author Fig4.48-streets in la marais , Source: Author Fig4.50-old image of montmartre, Source: montmartre art gallery Fig4.51-corner plots, Source: Author Fig4.52-tourist spot , Source: Author Fig4.54-aerial view of la defense , Source: Author Fig4.55-axis passing through arc de triomphe , Source: Author Fig4.56-plaza in la defense , Source: Author Fig4.57-typical streets in la marais, Source: Author Fig4.58-internal street, Source: Author Fig4.59-contrasting facade, Source: Author Fig4.60-crossestion of montmartre, Source: montmartre art gallery

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Fig4.61-old image of montmartre, Source: montmartre art gallery Fig4.62-facade along montmartre, Source: Author Fig4.63-market place in montmartre, Source: Author Fig4.64 -schematic presentation of the axis of la defense, Source: Author Fig4.65-street facade in la defense, Source: Author Fig4.56-axis forming character of the street, Source: Author Fig4.67-broad street network of la defense., Source: Author Fig4.68-Skyline of Berlin., Source: Author Fig4.73-Unter den Linden meeting Brandenburg Gate., Source: Author Fig4.74-Active Road median of Unter Den Linden., Source: Author Fig4.75- old image of unter den linden., Source: art gallery Fig4.77-aerial view of kurfurstendamm, Source: wikipedia Fig4.78-View of the area, Source: wikipedia Fig4.79-old image of kufurstendamm, Source: art gallery Fig4.80-schematic diagram representing unter den linden, Source: Author Fig4.81-central pedestrian walkway, Source: Author

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Fig4.82-street facade, Source: Author Fig4.83- neo-renaissance street facade, Source: Author Fig4.84-old image of the church in kurfurstendamm, Source: art gallery Fig4.85-contrasting image of old new , Source: Author Fig4.86-Bell tower addition to the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church., Source: Author Fig4.87-social structure of ho0lzmarkt, Source: Author Fig4.88-schematic plan of the market., Source: Author Fig4.89-street facade., Source: Author Fig4.90-Site elevation from opposite bank of river Spree., Source: Author

Fig5.6 -Parvathi hill in 19th century, Source: http://religion.wikia.com/wiki/Parvati Fig5.7 -Parvathihill–presentdayscenario,Source:http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting /ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=MIRRORNEW&BaseHref=PMIR/2013/06/12&PageLabel=4&EntityId=Ar00400&ViewMode=HTML Fig5.8 -Mula Mutha river old city, Source: http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/dying-rivers-of-pune-part-i-untreated-sewage-garbage-define-mula-mutha-4474556/ Fig5.9 -Mula Mutha river, Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:New-Yerwada-Bridge-Over-Mula-Mutha.jpg

Fig5.10-Mula Mutha river, Source: Author

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Fig5.11 -Fergusson College, Source:Author Fig5.12-Savitribai Phule Pune University, Source:Author Fig5.13-Mandai or a Market Place, Source:Author Fig5.14-Tambat ali – Artisans dwelling, Source: http://mollymhiggins.blogspot.in Fig5.15-Location Map – Mula Mutha river, Source:Author Fig5.16- Google image of Mul-mutha river, Source: https://sandrp.wordpress.com/2017/01/09/drp-news-bulletin-09-jan2017-india-continues-to-witness-decline-in-groundwater-govt-report/ Fig5.17 -Present Day unhygienic condition of Mula Mutha river, Source: https://icare4pune.com/2016/06/10/%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%A6%E 0%A5%80%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%B3%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%98%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%9F%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4% AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE-%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%95/ Fig5.18 -Elevation of the proposed development along the river site, Source: Author Fig5.19 -New Development facing the river, Source: Author Fig5.20-Proposed vernacular mixed use development in monotonous plots of Pune , Source: Author Fig5.21-Bubble diagram showing business sector developing in outskirts of Pune, Source: https://www.proptiger.com/pune/hinjewadi/ bhandari-unnati-1560293 Fig5.22-Aerial view of Hinjewadi., Source: https://www.rvcj.com/10-best-cities-job-india-can-get-annual-package-upto-rs-6-lakhs/ Fig5.23-Scheme in HInjewadi., Source: https://www.proptiger.com/pune/hinjewadi/sree-mangal-aspiria-646529 Fig5.24-Typical Vernacular courtyard of Pune’s Wada., Source: Author

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Fig5.25-Contemporary Usage of courtyards., Source: Author

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List of Maps Fig4.3 -

Old City- San Polo, Venice,

Fig4.4-

Santa Croce mar in connectivity, Venice ,

Fig4.5-

Modern development of Canneregio, Venice,

Fig4.6-

Figure ground for san polo,

Fig4.11-

Figure ground for Santa Croce,

Fig4.16-

Figure ground for Canneregio,

Fig4.24-

plot diagram of Santa Croce,

Fig4.42

Old City- La Marais, Paris,

Fig4.43

Cultural hub- Monmarte, Paris,

Fig4.44

Business District- La Defense, Paris,

Fig4.45

Narrow Plots, Active Streets of La Marais, Paris,

Fig4.49

HIghest point of hill in Monmarte, Paris,

Fig4.53

figure ground for la defense,

Source: Author Source: Author Source: Author

Source: Author Source: Author Source: Author

Source: Author

Source: Author Source: Author Source: Author Source: Author

Source: Author

Source: Author

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Fig4.69

Old City- Unter den Liden,Berlin,

Fig4.70

Kurfustendamm, West Berlin,

Fig4.71

Proposed Development in Holzmarkt, Berlin,

Fig4.72

Boulevard and surrounding area-Unter den Liden, Berlin,

Source: Author

Fig4.76

Boulevard and surrounding area-Kurfustendamm, Berlin,

Source: Author

Fig5.1-

Map of India., Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Western_India.svg

Fig5.2-

Map of Maharastra., Source: http://bhartiyasamachar.com/crow-are-the-karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah/

Source: Author

Source: Author Source: Author

Fig5.3- Map of Pune City., Source: http://www.cultureholidays.com/pune/map.htmFig5.4-old city of Pune, Source:author Fig5.5-

Growth of Pune, Source: author

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Table of Contents

Chapter One : Introduction 3

1.1 Background - Issue addressed

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1.2 Research Questions 10 1.3 Aim of Research 12 1.4 Objectives of the Research 13 1.5 Relevance and Scope of Research 1.6 Limitaions of Research 1.7 Structure of Thesis

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16

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Chapter Two : Premise 21

2.1 Impact of Globalization: Place Identity – Cityscape

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2.2 Role of streets and community towards forming Identity

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2.3 Vernacular Urbanism - Proposed Solution

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2.4 Evolution- as frame a frame-structure

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Chapter Three: Research Methodology

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3.1 Research Methodology 61 3.2 Structure of Thesis 64 3.3 Vernacular Urbanism as a Analysing Tool

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3.4 Case studies 72 3.5 Vernacular Urbanism as a Design Tool

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Chapter Four: Case Studies

78

4.1 Approach 79 4.2 Considerations and limitaions of case study

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Chapter Five: Conclusion 126

5.1 Design Guidlines 126 5.2 Design Demonstration 134

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fig 1.1a

Identify the city?

In today’s globalising world it is almost difficultt for one to identify a city visually unless their name is mentioned. The above shown pictures seem to be bits and pieces of one frame rather than four different cities. Unless..........

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MUMBAI

JOHHANESBURG

CHICAGO

ABU DHABI

fig 1.1b

Unless..........One tries to figure out the ‘name’ of it’s surrounding region on maps or some sign boards.

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Chapter One : Introduction

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Is there still a place for local identity in a globalized age? (Perkins & Thorns,

2011)Â The main focus of this thesis is to address issues originating from globalization and their impact on place identity and human psychology. This thesis attempts to stimulate a new language inspired from vernacular, in amalgamation with modern technologies, thus helping designers to create a positive identity for the cities.

Space is a perception of numerous geometrical figures like distance, di-

rection, shape, volume, and size irrespective of the cultural, social and economic influence. (Gieryn, 2000) In order to imbibe meaning into a space, individuals and groups of communities change the spaces into a place, adding the emotional and cultural aspect, thus humanizing the space (Ujang & Zakariya, 2014).

A place derives its meaning from two major aspects; firstly, the physical

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connotation or the tangible elements of a place and second, the intangible elements which define the spirit of a place.

A place is a result of a physical manifestation of immeasurable factors like,

geographical conditions, functional needs, cultural beliefs, economic structure, political influence and social hierarchy, which in turn creates an impact on human psychology, thus forming a unique identity for the place.

This thesis also investigates the connection between the human psyche

and a particular place (Gieseking & Mangold, 2014). Every person has an image of the places, regions, and cities he has visited or lived. Both, human’s perception of a place and identity of a place, are interlinked and have a mutual impact on each other. Both the factors are co-produced, as an individual or community is identified by the place they live in, how they shape it and in return is shaped by the surroundings, creating narratives from the memories of the places which impacted him (Gieseking & Mangold, 2014)

As a result of rapidly increasing urbanization and population shifting to

cities, there is a drastic change in the demand and function of the upcoming developments. A sudden boom of technology and increasing aspirations of the future generation to create smart cities has resulted in the loss of identity. A loss

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of association or desegregation or detachment due to fast-paced lifestyles has weakened the attachment towards a place.

This paper throws light on how a false notion of “perfect city�, inspired

from the western developed countries, is deteriorating the importance of the locale and vernacular for the developing countries. This further leads to a loss of identity and spirit of a place. Sustaining the meanings and identity of the urban elements and icons (objects, structures, and images) is important because they contribute to self-identity, sense of community and sense of place. (Hidalgo & Hernandez, 2001)

Designers, from across the world, under the influence of urbanization ex-

hibit an impervious and insensitive approach towards place-making and urban design, prioritizing the physical appearance of a space over its spirit, in order to create iconic skylines replicating the western developed countries.

A number of experts and researchers have derived definitions for place

identity, the terms further and sets a context, specific for this research. Vernacular, localness and urbanism (urbanization). Chapter two of this paper discusses the terms further and sets a context, specific for this research.

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1.1 Background - Issue addressed:

Globalization, a widely talked and discussed term amongst people from

various fields of profession, is particularly referred to as a major issue when associated with fields like Urban Design, City Planning, Architecture and Place Identity. Globalization comprises many processes, including the spatial integration of economic activities, a shift in cultural beliefs, migration of people, and disintegration of social structure (Haggag, n.d.). Globalization has been described as a process of standardization, where a globalized language of modernization is circulated across the globe promoting sameness and homogeneity (Eldemery & Mostafa, 2002). Recent years, in particular, have seen conceptualization of a place, forming stereotypes, and debates concerning the process of globalization and its impact on the identity of a place (May, 1996). A number of theoretical literature concerned with globalization and place identity have been documented and listed in the past; without any practical implications of the conclusions obtained.

Globalization is a rapidly growing phenomenon, leaving a scar of the af-

termath on every city and its image in a developing country. Mesmerised by the image of western, developed countries, copy-paste design has become a routine

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for designers of developing countries. This is one of the main reasons why the new cities are ripped of their identities which would have otherwise been evolved from the surrounding locale, responding to the local needs and functions. The present human world represents the age of global capitalism, ubiquitous markets, and global mass media, many scholars have claimed the world transforming into a single entity or one place (Eriksen, 1999). This exaggerated description by the author thus makes an important point of loss in the diversity of identities of places and mechanizing the world with the complete loss of humanity and emotions of a place or city.

Globalization is omnipresent throughout the world right from Sahara des-

ert to fast-moving Japanese cities, and it is inevitable to bypass its effects in this fast-moving world. The highly increasing aspirations of future generations have led to the formation of cities inspired from developed countries rather than what exists around them. The notion of developed and smart cities in present era, unfortunately, is as shallow as iconic buildings and outstanding skylines without understanding the depth and relevance of the locale; also known as vernacular of the place. The concept of globalization has become a fashionable trend followed by all, and as a result, the meaning of place identity has become fuzzy (Eriksen, 1999).

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Globalization has both positive and negative effects on a number of aspects

of development and growth of a city, across a variety of fields and fraternities.

Among the principal outcomes, we argue, is property-led regeneration through large-scale urban redevelopment schemes, new-economy hubs, ubiquitous office towers, cultural quarters, “semiotic districts” and “brand-scapes”, gentrified neighbourhoods and packaged suburban landscapes. (Knox & Pain, 2010) The direct effect of which is seen on the identity and image of the city which every user or visitor would perceive.

As the identity and sense of a city are directly connected to the human

psyche, human wellbeing is another aspect considered, while discussing adverse effects of the phenomenon. With urbanization increasing, it is important to understand how to design changing environments to promote mental wellbeing (Houlden et al., 2017). The identity of a place has its direct impact on culture and social structure of a community and is in return influenced by the same, evolving in a loop.

Conservationists claim globalization to be a threat to the local cultures and

the sanctity of traditional beliefs of the communities, while, on another hand, some theorists are claiming that globalization is replacing concepts like modernity and post-modernity as the central theme of the theory of contemporary

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development (Eldemery & Mostafa, 2002). Globalization, an outcome of advanced technologies and modern developments, theorized as a boon for the human community appears to be a curse for both, self-identity as well as place identity.

This research focuses on developing a sensitive approach for designers in

order to maintain a positive place identity for redevelopment and new developments of cities across the globe.

1.2 Research Questions

The main question addressed by this thesis is derived from the above-

discussed problem; Can designs and strategies inspired by local or vernacular surroundings, along with advanced technologies, be used to enhance the place identity of a city.

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The following questions further assisted in structuring the thesis: 1.

Understanding Vernacular

• What is vernacular and its definition in the context of urban design?

• Is vernacular relevant for present and future development of a city?

• Is vernacular attached to a particular period in time or does it

evolve with time?

2.

Importance of Place Identity

• Is place identity an important factor in present scenario?

• What creates place identity?

• The relevance of present-day designer’s approach towards their

surroundings and place identity?

• Does place identity play an important role in creating self-identity

for today’s generation?

3.

Theoretical Review

• What factors of vernacular and urban design affect place identity?

• What urban morphological layers and design qualities symbolize

place identity for a city?

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•Theories in order to establish a background for the proposed term of

“Vernacular Urbanism”

4.

Analysing Vernacular Urbanism

• What is a relevant theory to analyse a city for its Vernacular?

• What conceptual framework, originating from vernacular urban

ism, help re-structure the image of a city?

•What factors of vernacular and urban design can form a fram struc

ture to create a positive identity for a city?

• Is the frame structure immortal in time and relevant in future?

1.3 Aim of the Research

The aim of the research is to understand the role of vernacular in retain-

ing, re-structuring, re-imagining and reforming image of a city, by establishing a new language of contemporary vernacular urbanism inspired from the tradition-

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al design strategies combined with future aspirations of city making.

1.4 Objectives of the Research Objectives of the research are classified as follows:

• To understand the importance of place identity and its impact on human

race and its development.

• To establish an approach for the designers, in order to create positive

identities for new cities.

• To define factors and parameters which help identify vernacular of a

city, termed as vernacular urbanism in the paper through review of the

literature.

• To create an evaluative frame-structure, that can help explain and un-

derstand the factors of vernacular urbanism of a city.

• To apply the proposed frame-structure on the case studies, in order to

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explain and analyse vernacular urbanism for the chosen cities and fur-

ther evaluate its impact on the image of the city.

• To propose a set of theoretical and urban design recommendations that

could be adapted to create a better and positive place identity based on

the evaluations made for the case studies.

• To imply the derived urban design strategies on the city of Pune in or-

der to enhance its image.

• To test and comment on the immortality of the proposed frame-struc-

ture for further use in future.

1.5 Relevance and Scope of the Research

With the rapid shift of population to urban cities and ever-increasing ur-

banization across the globe, the issue of loss of identity is reaching its alarming peak and needs the attention of the upcoming designers before the world becomes monotonous and losses its diversity. The intention of this research is to propose a set of guidelines for practitioners, academicians, and students to de-

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velop a sensitive approach towards designing our cities.

This research tries to attain a flexible frame-structure which could be

implied on any city across the globe, at the same time is very specific as per the changing aspects and character of a city. This thus forms the ground-work for designers to build future ideas and design principles. Along with practitioners, this is a sensitive approach of creating cities, for students and academicians to explore further. This work of thesis can also be a base work for the concerned political body to establish their planning policies for the city.

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1.6 Limitations of the Research

This paper addresses the issue of loss of identity due to globaliza-

tion, whereas there are a number of negative after-effects of globalization faced by the world. Thus this paper doesn’t consider all the aspects influenced by globalization and addresses a part of it which has a counter effect on the image of a place.

Also, no two cities are similar and diversity is the keyword, a wide range of

cases needs to be examined and analysed running parallel to each other with numerous permutations and combinations of factors affecting vernacular urbanism of a city. This thesis reaches the stage of establishing a generic frame-structure which can be further detailed to suit a particular city.

1.7 Structure of Thesis

The thesis is organized into five chapters, which respond to the research

questions and fulfil the objectives of this research. This part explains every chapter in brief and summarizes the contents of every chapter in the general structure of the research.

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1.7.1 Chapter Two: Premise

Understanding the terms forming the background of the thesis. This chap-

ter will introduce the terms used in the research and establish definitions for the terms in context to this research.

The definitions established will further be backed with theoretical explora-

tions and literature reviews. This chapter defines vernacular and urbanism and their pertinence to current and future generations. With increasing ambitions of a new generation of the human breed, interpretation of these terms has to change with time. This chapter establishes the factors of vernacular and their effects on urban morphological elements which combined together form vernacular urbanism.

This chapter will also introduce the term vernacular urbanism and recom-

mend a rationale for the frame-structure, derived from an extensive literature review; as a lot has been researched and written about the individual terms since past. This chapter concludes that design strategies for maintaining place identity for a city can be derived from vernacular urbanism. It is also argued that place identity for a city has tangible aspects and intangible aspects.

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1.7.2 Chapter Three: Research Methodology

This chapter chalks out the research methodology for documenting, an-

alysing and further application of the case studies and research strategies. A discussion of research methods, including the theories used for documenting and analysing the chosen case studies, as outlined in this chapter. It also describes the definitions and terminologies concluded in the previous chapter and their application for formulating a frame structure which will be applied in chapter four and five.

1.7.3 Chapter Four: Case studies – Paris - Venice – Berlin This chapter discusses aptness of the chosen case studies based on the literature review from chapter two and further disintegrates the frame structure for detailed analysis of the cases documented. The cities chosen are documented based on the theory discussed in chapter three. As the European urban fabric and its image are appreciated by many researchers and scholars, the cities are chosen from the European continent. This chapter focuses on deriving factors of vernacular urbanism for each of the city using the conceptual framework established in chapter two and further comment on its consequences on place

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identity and human psychology with changing time and functional needs.

This chapter focuses on understanding the shift in place identity over a

period of time and evolution of vernacular factors which affect a city’s development. This chapter concludes by deriving tangible and intangible factors which eventually lead to forming an image of the city. These factors are further used to formulate a generic frame structure for future implications.

1.7.4 Chapter Five: Conclusions

This chapter is further divided into three sections based on the outcomes

derived from the research.

• A conscious approach is proposed for today’s designers in order to cre-

ate places and cities with positive place identity and its impact on self-

identity in order to improve user’s mental well-being.

• A frame-structure is proposed in the second part of conclusions, de-

rived from the elaborate literature review in chapter two. This frame

structure is used to analyze any documented city based on the theory

specified in chapter three. This frame-structure is further used to demon-

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strate its implication in the third section of this chapter.

• One of the objectives to be fulfilled is to demonstrate the implication of

the frame structure, derived from the thesis, on a city from developing

country. The frame structure is demonstarted on city from the develop-

ing country of India.

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Chapter Two : Premise

21

This chapter introduces the reader with the definitions in context to this

research, thus defining the terms used in framing and constructing the paper.

The interpretations of the terms used in this research are further aided with suitable literature review.

2.1 Impact of Globalization: Place Identity – Cityscape

The major impact of globalization is directly and majorly seen over a city’s

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identity. The drastic movement of the world towards a monotonous and identical built environment will have a direct impact on human psyche. Societal structure will disintegrate, leaving people deprived of cultural and social connect. Place identity forms the focal concept in the field of environmental psychology and offers the theory of identities forming a relation to their surrounding local environment. Place identity forms over a person’s self-identity, and the knowledge and emotion originating from a person’s everyday experiences of the physical environment (Gieseking & Mangold, 2014).

As discussed earlier in the paper, the basic difference between a space and

place being the addition of the emotional and psychological factor to the space forms place, thus giving rise to terms like place identity, place attachment, place dependence and sense of place. All these terms are more or less inter-related and point on one common thing, which is well-being of human psyche. Human psychology further affects a person’s physical health; social connects with people and built environment around and self-satisfaction with one’s lifestyle (Anton & Lawrence, 2014). Presence or absence of place attachment and identity leads to positive and negative impact on human mental health, which is one of the alarming issues in today’s world.

Though the connections between the above stated factors evolving from a

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place have till date not been proven to be predicting same or different phenomena, the common thing binding them is the emotional connect to the physical environment (Lewicka, 2008). As said by a famous spiritual leader, Sadhguru, that even if humans are growing intellectually, emotions rule humans. They are the strongest aspect of human life. The current generation claims to be intellectual, but their intellect is not as intense as their emotions. Emotions are the major aspect of being human.

The word identity has two meanings to it; one is sameness or continuity to

something and the other is distinctiveness or uniqueness. When discussing the term place identity one has to incorporate design strategies which offer both continuity and uniqueness (Lewicka, 2008). Place identity having two polar opinions could be explained to be in continuity to its past and history, which in turn makes it unique from other parts of the world.

Place identity being a versatile concept a number of notions on place-hu-

man psychology are built based on this factor. This paper refers to the bond between the two in context of humans built environment and cities. This idea of place identity helps one understand where and why people feel at home, and why displacement or change in environmental conditions, forced or voluntary can be disturbing for the humans (Gieseking et al., 2014).

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Identity of a place is a subjective phenomenon, with every place having

numerous hidden identities when talked about through particular narratives and perspectives.

Architectural historian, Dolores Hayden in her book The Power of Place,

reveals the racial, class discriminated and gender-biased opinions of place. She throws light on how privileged people bury the truth of incidents happening in the past creating a clear political image amidst the general public. The social shift caused due to racism and caste discrimination in 19th century has been infused in the formation of places; thus creating a drift in the unity of a city’s identity.

For example, china towns were created in many of the European cities, in order to segregate the Chinese population from rest of the city.

Place identity also changes with change in the natural or man-made phys-

ical surrounding. Destruction of an iconic structure forming the memory or loss of a natural feature due to increasing sprawl and migration also cause a sudden change in humans perspective for a place (Butina-Watson & Bentley, 2007).

Due to Globalization, designers have forgotten to look back, and instead of

designing being inspired from the local context, they have indulged into automobile dominant world of cities. The cities created today are generic places and

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have no reference to the location of the city and historical importance of the city. The new cities formed are focused on the commercial and economical needs rather than the needs of people (Artibise, 2010). Acculturation, homogenization and assimilation are few of the many challenges faced by identity due to globalization.

2.5 Role of streets and community towards forming Identity

Identity as discussed above can be divided into several headings based on

the scale of its subject, namely, self-identity, place identity and global identity. In context to this research, focus is laid on place identity. As the three derivations of identity are coproduced and generate in a mutual congregation of each other, the other two derivatives are also affected with the changing place identity.

Streets and community neighborhoods from the major components of a

city and are first point of contact for any visitor or resident outside his private space. Thus this research relies on these elements and derives its inferences and conclusions from the street character and community living.

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2.3 Vernacular Urbanism - Proposed Solution

Vernacular urbanism being a new approach to urban design is in current

discussions amongst scholars, researchers, intellectuals, academicians and practitioners. Most cities in past and present derive their basic character from the surrounding locale context, may it be cities designed by big names like Burnham’s Chicago or may it be developed by the local authority as is the case for a large number of cities. Vernacular urbanism is an antithesis to the current general practices of urbanism. Vernacular urbanism is purely local to its surrounding context, has a meaning for both the users and visitors, has a sense of belonging for the residents, is rooted in its history and has a unique character for every city (Artibise, 2010).

As quoted by Octavio Paz, ‘to be truly modern, we must first reconcile

ourselves with the past’, one should know his past and traditional roots well before taking his step towards future and related success. When one talk’s about vernacular urbanism it’s not about copy pasting the traditional facades from the past, nor does it refer to the old-fashioned techniques of urbanism which fail to optimise their efficiency in the present era. Vernacular urbanism is about consolidating old with the new, learning from the traditional roots of past and implying them based on the current situations and demands. This would be true even in

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future when the present for our generation would be a tale from the past for the forthcoming future generations.

Vernacular Urbanism relates an individual to its community and answers

questions like, who we are? And why we are the way we are? It helps generate a sense of belonging and ownership of the surrounding amongst the citizens.

Community living and an individual’s behaviour in the particular community are determined by the pre-set cultural beliefs and traditional customs. Thus culture is the pivotal factor around which vernacular urbanism can be generated (Rivas, n.d.). As said by the late historian Christopher Lasch, vernacular urbanism helps us understand and realise about, ‘our basic disposition to the world around us’.

A number of debates have been witnessed regarding this topic, with acute

polarity in the opinions. A few researchers claim vernacular urbanism to be funky, eclectic, anarchic and free from ideas of the past usually generating from cultural or social authorities (Kennicott, 2013). A few studies have also observed straight-forward reactions towards the increasing sprawl being ugly and nothing can be done for its betterment.

This paper is in agreement to the former outlook towards vernacular ur-

banism and tries to further explore the term as a design tool for improved image of the neighbourhoods and cities.

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The theory of new Urbanism is used as a reference point to develop the theory of Vernacular Urbanism in this thesis.

Theory of new urbanism

New urbanism is a theory of this generation evolved in 21st century to

create and design better neighbourhoods and cities for people to live in. it is an umbrella term which incorporates ‘neo-traditional development ‘ and ‘traditional neighbourhood design’. The theory strongly believes in building an environment with strong sense of community (Talen, 1999). Despite of having a number of critical oppositions, the theory remains resilient, practical and a well-thought alternative to generic practices in the market (Ellis, 2002).

The principles of new urbanism are based on the planning strategies fol-

lowed over the past decades and include walkable blocks, pedestrian friendly streets, residential blocks in proximity to commercial blocks and inviting public places. The theory suggests planning of a city to human scale.

The principles considered under the theory are as follows:

• Walkability, where the streets are designed prioritizing the pedestrians.

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The streets are made active in order to generate ease and feeling of

safety amongst the users.

• Connectivity, focuses on well planned street grid networks, well

developed hierarchy of streets and thoughtfully designed pedestrian walk

ways in order to assist the locals.

• Mixed-use and diverse land use, thus keeps the adjoining streets and

public places active all-round the clock. It also offers a good mix of people

across diverse age, culture, income levels and social background.

• Mixed Housing, in continuation to the above point also leads to an oppor

tunity to introduce diversity in house size, shape and cost thus promoting

equality.

• Quality architecture, focusing on the built environment and its effects

on the natural elements. This also talks about comfort, aesthetics, sense

of place and community living within the built environment.

• Traditional neighbourhood structure, demonstrating application of the

basic design principles from the past to suit the new and modern require

ments of the generation.

• Increased density, smart transportation, sustainability and quality of life

also form a part of the above mentioned theory (Haas, 2012).

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This paper focuses on achieving an improved lifestyle for the present cit-

izens and the forthcoming future generation by developing modern neighbourhoods grounded in the roots of the past, thus making them culturally , socially and aesthetically sound for human psychological well-being.

To further understand the above discussed concept of Vernacular Urban-

ism, the two terms used, Vernacular and Urbanism are further disintegrated for a detailed understanding of the concieved concept.

2.1 Vernacular

Vernacular when associated with design, can be defined as, ‘the architec-

tural language of the people, with its ethnic, regional and local dialects’ (Oliver, 1927)

“Vernacular” a term often associated with architecture has been discussed

for a long time as a sustainable solution for rapidly globalizing architecture across the world. Vernacular is best defined as a language originating from the local surroundings, which includes the geographical context, climate of the

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region, terrain of the area, locally available material, cultural beliefs of the community, traditional customs followed by the community, daily lifestyle of the people and, social, economic and political structure of the community. Unfortunately, there has been a disregard for vernacular across the world, leading to ‘loss in identity and cultural vibrancy’ (Zilliacus, 2017).

Vernacular architecture originated when mankind was forced to make

use of the natural resources around him, and provide him shelter and comfort which is responsive to the climate, a shield from the elements. It is a pure reaction to an individual person’s or society’s building needs and has allowed a man, even before the architect, to construct shelter according to his circumstance.

Such simple traditions have long been regarded as unworthy, and have been replaced by half-digested, largely inappropriate architectural values. (Edwards, 2011) In this era, of advanced technology and rapid growth of economic capital, the traditional knowledge of vernacular architecture is merely a tale from the past (Edwards, 2011); Where vernacular is often considered as old-fashioned and something which does not fit into the “modern” image of the current generation.

This phenomenon was described as “a global pandemic of generic buildings” in the recent Architectural Review (Zilliacus, 2017).

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Urban design and a well-designed cityscape is an integral part of a coun-

try’s culture just as much is the language, art, literature, and music, the design being the most visual component which portrays the culture of a city. This is known as the ‘genius loci’ of the city or the spirit of a city, which creates a specific identity for the city (Sojkowski, 2015). Genius loci, also known as ‘spirit of place’, is a sense of authenticity for a community residing in a particular location.

Principles of genius loci are fundamentally important for the profession of urban design in order to create socially and culturally integrated communities and cities (Tomich, 2002).

In order to maintain the spirit of a place, the proposed designs should be

in response to the context they are located. Contextualism is a principle of design which incorporates the wider context of the natural or local surrounding while designing. Kenneth Frampton defines critical regionalism as a design specific to the design, which seeks universality. According to him, the design should adopt modern design technologies critically for its progressive qualities as well as considering the design values and responses from the contextual references. Theory of critical regionalism seeks to respond to the lack of meaning in modern cities by contextual references to create a sense of belonging for the place (Frampton,

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2007).

Vernacular helps one to re-establish oneself back to the part they belong

to in the world and pushes one to think in the purest form of survival. With the increasing impacts of globalization, in order to maintain the identity of a place, it becomes necessary to adapt to context-responsive urban design. Not much is talked about vernacular in context to urban design. Observing the positive and successful outcomes in the field of architecture, this paper attempts to use this concept in designing the cities, in order to re-establish the lost identity, culture, social structure and meaning of a place.

Inferences

The theories discussed above have been coined in context to the architec-

ture of a place rather than urban design, where the building should respond to its local surroundings by the scholars. An attempt to create a definition in reference to urban design and city formation is made in this thesis. Vernacular for a city relates more to the community or neighbourhood living cumulatively rather than an individual’s response to the city. No doubt a communities response is the culmination of every individual forming it, vernacular in context to the city is more about a neighbourhood’s response to community residing and vice versa.

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This thesis does not propose a copy paste of traditional facades and mate-

rial cladding, similarly also opposes the copy paste of prototyped image of modernization. In this thesis, vernacular is a subtle amalgamation of principles and factors, from both modern technologies and traditional design strategies, which will add positive value to the identity of a city.

Thus with the change in context the factors of vernacular and their defi-

nitions are modified to best suit a cities formation, with a base derived from the theory of vernacular architecture. Factors discussed below are further classified into tangible and intangible factors, based on their physical and psychological presence in formulating place identity. The factors considered to derive the analytical frame-structure are as follows: Tangible factors Geographical Factors

Every city has specific physical characters which are naturally present in

the region. These characters are definite and present in the region, unlike other factors, before any man-made interventions took place. These characters do not

35

represent any communal or social thoughts and beliefs and have a great impact on how a place or city will evolve.

Despite the natural characteristics of a region being so rigid and unpreju-

diced, humans from current generation under the name of modern technologies have attempted to modify these characters to suit their demands. The geographical factors can be further subdivided into following factors:

Climatic Conditions

• The climate of a city or country varies based on its location and even-

tually affects the way a city is designed. The macroclimate of the region has a direct effect on the strategies one would propose for the region.

Unfortunately, the new version of modernization has lead people to chal lenge the climatic conditions to meet their aspirations.

Example – Due to high temperatures and harsh sunlight streets in the

city of Jaisalmer, India are designed to be narrow and compact, in order fig 2.1

to mutually shade the streets for the users. The narrow streets also house roadside stalls thus creating a shaded market for the citizens.

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Topographical Features

•The topographical terrain is a major factor which instigates the pattern

of streets and buildings for a city. The quality of the terrain also plays a major role in deciding the style of a cities construction and evolution. The upcoming constructions, supported by the newly developed building technologies have bypassed the challenges put forward by the terrain and managed to create a contrasting image from that which would have otherwise been developed due to the terrain conditions.

Example – Streets in Santorini, Greece, are stepped due to its topograph-

ical conditions. Santorini is a coastal city with a mountainous terrain and thus fig 2.2

has houses along a stepped street. The users have compromised on the usage of vehicular transport and adapted to the pedestrian streets going up and down along the built structures.

Material Availability

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As vernacular is also defined as localness, availability of material in close surroundings becomes an integral part of the frame structure defining vernacular. Building material does not directly impact the elements of a city, but, it gives a character to its façade which in turn forms an image of the city. As the supply of natural local materials cannot reach the demand of the modern day construction, technology a vital role in introducing suitable materials complimenting the geographical factors and image of the city.

Example – City of Jodhpur in India also known as the ‘blue city’ got its

name from the blue stone available in its close vicinity. All the built structures in the city have used the blue stone available thus giving the city an image of blue fig 2.3

facades. Though in recent years due to unavailability of the stone the citizens have painted the walls blue in order to maintain the name of the city, as it is a major tourist attraction and mode of economy for the city.

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Intangible Factors

1.

Cultural Factors

Culture refers to characteristic patterns of attitudes, values, beliefs, and behaviors shared by members of a society or population, as stated in the compendium held by Council of Europe on cultural policies and trends in 2017.

Culture forms an important dimension of a city’s identity and is the backbone of the functioning of a community residing in those cities. Culture is a way in which any individual lives, thinks and behaves and is an integral part of an individual’s and community’s lifestyle (Compendium: Cultural Policies and Trends, 2017).

Culture governs the way people behave in and around places, thus indi-

rectly affecting the development pattern of any place or a city. Despite of having a very incorporeal impact on the image of the city, culture forms one of the major elements defining the theory of place identity and place-making. This can be further sub-categorized into following factors:

• Historical Background

The urban fabric with its traditional, ideological and cultural structure established in different layers of history, is one of the main element of

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cultural memory (Akkurt, 2012). The image is the character of a place which is perceived by humans as scrutinized by their psyche. Humans psyche develops a picture influenced from the past and events narrated by the ancestral generations. Thus past and historical events coined with an area have a prominent impact on place-making and its identity.

Example – City of Rome, the focal point of former Roman Empire, is marked with a historical image of structures and character from the ancient past. The fig 2.4

time-worn, long-lived essence of history is prominently present in the modern city of Rome, thus taking the visitors and users into the antediluvian era of its past.

• Traditional Customs and Beliefs

Community bonds or comes together over the common traditions, customs and beliefs they share. It also derives its identity collectively and individually based on its impalpable characters such as religious practices, tradition,

40

faith, and rituals followed. In an urban setup, though these factors remain indefinable to a human eye, they have a great impression on the image of that place.

Example – Varanasi is known for its spiritual character, which the city ac-

quires from the sacred river of the Ganges and the rituals and traditions offered along with its banks. The customs and beliefs followed by the community residing in the city form the foundation for Varanasi’s image.

fig 2.5

• Daily Life-Style

Globalization has affected an individual’s daily life-style in many ways, which in turn has created a continuous drift in local place identity. An individual’s daily routine creates a particular connect or bond with the place, thus linking the place with day to day chores. Despite the world appears to be very small due to the modern techniques of communicating, the experience of attachment to the local surroundings remains one of the anchors for human’s association to the place, thus making human’s lifestyle an important aspect of creating place identity. Place identity of a city in reference to the everyday life, is mostly associated with the urban street elements defined by the citizens rather than any pre-intended layer of urban fabric.

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Example – Every city has a particular element of street furniture which

forms a prominent image icon for the city, and is usually designated in the local language of the region. “Kattas” of Pune, as called in the local dialect, are the iconic meeting places for young and old generations for an evening cup of tea; “Cafes” along the pedestrian pathways in Paris, form a vital point of cultural exfig 2.6

change amongst the Parisians and also a place for people to observe their co-citizens; “Trams” in Prague, an ubiquitous element of commute in every citizens day to day life, forms an essential feature of the city’s personality.

fig 2.7

2.

Socio-Economic Factors

This factor affecting vernacular of a city emphasises on collective identity of a person, rather than individual identity, and its effect on image of the city. (Klandermans, 2015). A community stands on the founding supports of social structure, political institution and macro economy of the society. In social psychological terms, the political mobilization of a social group requires its members to interpret conflicts of interest or of ideological outlook in intergroup as opposed

fig 2.8

to interpersonal terms (Bornshier, 2007). In most of the developing countries,

42

development is measured in terms of the growth in economy. The adverse effect of such growth is often seen on the communities forming the base of the social hierarchy triangle, where the rich is getting richer and the poor is getting poorer. Developers of the city sometimes consider and assess the social and health impacts of established plans but fail to incorporate the same in the designing and planning stage (Baldwin, 2014).

• Social Structure

Inequality in social structure leads to hierarchical discrimination in society, leading to grouping and formation of discrete groups amongst the citizens based on various factors like income, caste, religion and beliefs. Every community has its own identity, as a reflection of the same factors, which in coexistence with other communities, forms a unique collage of image for the city (Ghosh, 2015).

fig 2.9

Example – The stark polarity in the social milieu of the citizens of Mumbai,

a city in India, is evident in its Dharavi region, a prominent slum of the city, and the contrasting high end structures surrounding the area.

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• Social Behaviour

Human activity is one of the key notes devising the identity of a city, which in turn is structured by its social edifice and shaped by the social behaviour of individuals (Compendium: Cultural Policies and Trends, 2017).

Though there are a number of factors affecting one’s social behaviour, human etiquette is assisted and provoked majorly due to the surrounding built environment and its interaction with the users (Gehl, 1936). Social behaviour is also related to theory of social cognition (Augoustinos, 1995) (Fiske & Taylor, 1991). A number of assumptions of social cognitive theories for identity imply that, human’s streamline the information to manage their everyday needs of interaction, following which we as humans classify data about the objects, people, situations and activities from the surrounding context before we involve into any memory or inferential process. (Howard, 2000).

Example – Social behaviour is dominated by the human activities promot-

ed by the built surrounding, which in turn originate from the land use typology, like a political setup will make one behave differently than what one would behave in a recreational area.

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• Economic Growth

This particular factor affecting vernacular development of the city forms the backbone of all the factors discussed above. Economy is a subject directly affecting the development of a city and an ancillary factor from which one could derive an image of the cities locale (Akerlof & Kranton, 2000).

The impact of economy on a city’s development, vernacular and positive

image can be further simplified based on the flow and scale of economy. i.

Macro Economy Macro economy is the part of economy which focuses on the performance and behaviour of economy as a whole (Staff, 2017). It deals with decision making of economy as a whole on national, regional or global level. Macro economy in relation to place identity of a city focuses on the development of a city’s infrastructure, equal opportunities of employment for the residents and

45

balanced development of the city. ii.

Micro Economy Micro economy is a phenomenon to do with individual economy or household economy, and does not have a direct major impact on forming place identity (Rodrigo, 2017). The business generating the micro economy creates a platform for public interaction as well as contributes to the macro economy of the city as a whole, thus affecting the socio-economic segment of vernacular and local image of the area of the city (Goldberger, 1996).

• Political Influence

This factor is involved into the last stage of planning a city, where the au-

thority representing the political body plays a vital role. After all the research and development and planning of a city the body in power authorizes, legalizes and validates the development policies for a city. The physical manifestation of the strategies proposed for progress of a city is bought to recognition by the political heads of a city.

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2.2 Urbanism – Morphological layers of a city

A city is an amalgamation of two aspects forming life. The first one is the

physical or the tangible component forming the cities; this includes the roads, built structures, open spaces and supporting infrastructure. These elements form the setting where one works, lives, eats and plays on a daily routine basis. This segment of city is generally governed by the planners, politicians and developers. Apart from the physical and more permanent facet of the city, there exists a provisional temporary city which changes with its surrounding local context.

The later segment of city is enriched by the citizens, residents and visitors, which brings life and meaning to the city and shapes the urban character of any city (Artibise, 2010).

A city seen in cross-section is made up of a number of overlapping layers,

with every element co-related to one another. Many scholars have researched on the correlation of these layers and the importance of every elements existence in forming the city.

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Urban Morphology

Urban morphology understood in its simplest configuration is the study of

form, physical structure of the city, plan and layout of the city, elements of townscape and function oriented areas of the city (Hutchison, 2010). The need of this theory was to understand and evaluate the growth of urban areas with different aspects like socio-economic, physical and cultural factors of the urban form, with its origin dating back into 19th century. Urban morphology is the study of changing physical forms and shapes over time, focusing on the patterns and processes of growth and development changes (Saikia, 2015). Different permutations and combinations of the elements of urban morphology create distinct urban environments. Urban environments in turn have direct impact on human psychology creating discrete place identities for every city.

Elements of the urban morphological layers considered in context of this research are:

fig 2.10

1.

Plot Grain

This element of urban morphology talks about the distribution, division and shape of the built land. This also observes the classification of land for

48

various functional purposes and utility based on the requirements and demands of the citizens, users, economy and political interests of the city.

• Land Typology

The stratification of the land under several group heads based on fig 2.11

their functional utility, thus segregating human activities originating from the same, in order to improve the lifestyle of the citizens. Land is majorly classified under primary headings of industrial, commercial, residential, institutional, historical, religious and educational uses and then further can be streamlined into secondary and tertiary headings founded on the contextual prerequisites.

This along with land distribution defines the character of the city, for ex-

ample, Oxford is known as an institutional city or Coventry known for its high industrial land use famous as an industrial city.

• Land Distribution

The proportional distribution of above stated land typologies based

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on the specific requirements of the urban area defines land distribution.The statistics forming the backbone of this kind of distribution generally originates from on-site physical requirements, political interests, economical benefits, cultural requirements and citizens aspirations.

Example – The city of Bangalore in India has an exorbitant percentage of

green open lands and forests, thus giving it the name of Garden City.

fig 2.12

• Plot Size and Style

Focusing on a larger scale this term talks about the individual plots forming the cluster, this furthermore defines the city. Plot size and style originate from the functions performed in the said area. Plots belonging to the same typology will be more or less similar in their appearance, thus forming a homogeneous cluster leading to the genesis of place identity.

Example – Residential plot will be very well distinguishable from the com-

mercial or institutional plot thus creating a definable style for distinct user types.

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2.

Street Character

Streets connect the private and public domains of a city. These connections form support to social interactions and social exchange, both being important activities. Street design contributes to the formation of a communities identity and character (Anon., 2002). This forms an essential element when talking about the image of the city. It’s the first visual contact any visitor or user fig 2.13

would have in a city. The elements left on a city’s canvas after subtracting the built blocks formulate the street character for a city. Streets have been an integral part of a city since history. They are not only connecting lines between a start and destination point but are also used for activities like meeting, trading, hawking, busking, bear-baiting, public speaking, pillorying and leisure (Marshal, 1967). The author, in his book Streets and Patterns, emphasises on the presence of a significant urban setup accompanying every important and active street in an urban fabric, which is observed in almost all the cities at any given time of its evolution (Marshal, 1967). Despite of number of researches, policies and theories generated, the current generation of designers prioritize vehicular movement on streets over the pedestrian activities (Saikia, 2015) . There are a number of tech-

51

nical, social and cultural aspects involved in forming the character of a street.

• Street Hierarchy

This is the basic classification of street network based on its utility and function. It classifies the streets based on its road width and functionality. fig 2.14

The road width is sometime also an indication of the land use typology of the built structures along the particular street. The street width also differs with the number and type of human activities associated with the street edge.

• Street Pattern

Street pattern is a visual perception of the flow of streets when seen from above. Computing this element is more complicated than the straightforward linear dimension of street width. Street pattern is the character which influences and creates townscape experiences for the users, thus directly influencing fig 2.15

the image of a city. A number of scholars have attempted to classify the existing street patterns under specific categories based on their forms when seen in an

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aerial view. Intellectuals including Unwin (1920), Moholy-Nagy (1968), Lynch (1981), Satoh (1998) and Frey (1999), have laid down various street patterns under several categories; though these classifications were made by different people in different time spans, one would come across a number of recurring words like linear, radial, grid or irregular (Marshal, 1967). These are the basic patterns under which one could classify the city’s road network.

• Street Façade Character

Street façade is the vertical component formed at the intersecting point of the street edge and built form. The street façade is characterized by the fig 2.16

physical elements generated from the history, public demand, geographical re quirement or aesthetic appearance. The façade forms an icon of image for the users to relate to any area or city.

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• Public Spaces

The ratio of volume of a city utilized by public in general, fall under this category of urban elements. These form a forum for interaction of the local public. Public spaces can be categorized into two major segments of built and open spaces. When talking about street character in particular, the research considers open public spaces under this heading. These include all the natural fig 2.17

and man-made open spaces for public activities and their interaction. Apart from the two categories of public places mentioned above, there are areas which are barren and unused. These form a negative image for a city as the unattended area forms a platform for all the illegal activities, thus promoting them amongst the citizens.

• Nodes

The intersecting points of streets and public spaces are organized and ornamented to form nodes, following a hierarchy set by the level of activities fig 2.18

accompanying the intersecting streets and/or open public spaces. These form an important element of place making as these form strategic focal points, where a

54

human can enter and has to make a decision to move further (Lynch, 1960). Nodes create a pause in the flow of one’s movement thus making it a point of identification for the users. The scale of nodes can vary with changing scales, right from a small traffic junction on a regional scale to a city being a node on a global scale.

• Public Activities

An ordinary walk along an ordinary street or a group of people indulged into a conversation, are a variety of public activities one can see along the streets of any city. Public activities, also associated with outdoor activities can be rationalized into three categories, based on the degree of compulsion to perform the particular activity (Gehl, 1971), namely necessary activities, optional activities and social activities. Out of the three, the social activities form the identity for a place and are in return affected by the surrounding local built environment.

3. Legibility Cities efficiency in modern world is measured by the ease of movement for the user (Wikipedia, n.d.). Movement in urban context represents the

55

displacement of user, citizens or visitors from point A to point B, which can be vehicular, pedestrian or movement by any public transport. With the world moving rapidly towards globalization, the streets designed, prioritize motor vehicles over humans.

The new policies introduced in urban design focus on walkable cit-

ies and pedestrian friendly cities with very little practical implementations seen across the globe. To further discuss the modes of movement they can be classified into following:

• Accessibility

Accessibility denotes the ease with which the citizens and visitors of a city can reach the major urban functions using available public transport.

The accessibility unlike other modes of transport is measured based on the time consumed in travel rather than the distance in number (M et al., 2016). The effectiveness of any city’s public transport can be an outcome of the two factors, one the proficiency of the existing public transport and second the advancement and

56

investment made for its further development.

• Walkability

Walkability in today’s world is one of the key factors considered when discussing urban design or development of a city. A number of concepts exploring the term are introduced like, walkable neighbourhoods or pedestrian friendly cities. Governments of many cities are indulging and investing into the fig 2.19

concept of creating walkable communities along with academicians focusing research on principles of walkability. Walkability includes both the pedestrians and cyclists, thus promoting use of cycles over motorized vehicles.

• Mobility

Mobility is mere organization of the roads and connecting pathways to provide a safe and hassle free movement for motor vehicles in a city. It is the least affected and affecting element of the urban fabric in context to place identity and sense of belonging.

57

4.

Safety and Comfort

This is a subjective characteristic of an urban fabric which changes with changing perceptions of humans. The comfort originating from the safe environment tends to leave a positive imprint of the overall image of the city. The perception of a city’s safety can be pre-set, based on the narratives and incidents from the past. This element has its impact in coordination with all above mentioned elements and is an element functioning in unconsciously in human psyche.

5.

Blue and Green Network

This element is in reference to any natural elements defining the geographical characters of the city. Presence of any water body or natural green space in the boundaries of a city forms a natural element of identity for a city, thus forming an icon of memory of a city for the users.

58

2.4 Evolution – As a frame-structure

Vernacular, City Formation and Identity are the three topics of interest

discussed in this paper. All the phenomenon’s discussed in this paper are subjective to people’s perception, contextual setup and time. As the former two notions are different for different people and places (i.e they are subjective to people and places), time is the constant change every person experiences in any place across the globe.

Time is a constant factor of change which is objective in nature and in-

fluences all the three terms discussed in the paper. Thus the frame-structure of vernacular urbanism is pivoted on the factor of time and evolution for this particular research. A substantial and noticeable change in the city is seen over a decade and so is true in case of changing geographical, cultural and social impacts influencing a city (Ghosh, 2015).

Evolution is used to understand the changing impacts of the tangible fac-

tors as well as to map the graph of human aspirations, emotions and demands.

59

Chapter Three: Research Methodology

60

3.1 Research Methodology: A discussion, of objectives mentioned in Chapter one and the methods proposed to achieve below given outcomes is the rationale of this heading. This is further simplified in the below set table.

Objectives

Methodology

Output

To understand the importance of place

Literature Review to establish the

To derive the cycle of identity formation

identity and its impact on human race

connection between place identity and

and its impact on human psyche

and its development.

human psychology.

To establish an approach for the de-

Critical Analysis of the current design-

To propose an adequate approach of

signers, in order to create positive

ers approach towards place identity.

design, in order to improve the image

identities for new cities.

To define factors and parameters

quality of a city.

Literature Review to derive factors

To establish a link between the factors

which help identify vernacular of a city, from both vernacular architecture and

derived for vernacular and urbanism.

termed as vernacular urbanism in the

To re-establish a list of factors affecting

urbanism relevant to place identity.

paper, through review of the literature.

Vernacular Urbanism and their impact on image of a city.

61

To create an evaluative frame-struc-

Critical Analysis of the factors estab-

A frame structure based on principles

ture, that can help explain and under-

lished above in order to formulate a

of vernacular urbanism for document-

stand the factors of vernacular urban-

frame structure based on theory of

ing and analysing a city for its place

ism of a city.

golden circle.

identity is achieved based on the theory of golden circle.

To apply the proposed frame-structure

Case Examples of diverse cities in Euro- The data documented with the help of

on the case studies, in order to explain

pean context are considered and their

the proposed frame structure is further

and analyse vernacular urbanism for

evolution is analysed on the proposed

inferred for its positive and negative

the chosen cities and further evaluate

frame structure.

impact on the image of the city.

Critical Analysis of the data inferred

To create a database of generic recom-

its impact on the image of the city.

To propose a set of theoretical and ur-

ban design recommendations that could above in order to suggest changes and

mendations and suggestions, to be used

be adapted to create a better and posi-

possibilities for improving the image of

by any designer using the frame struc-

tive place identity based on the evalua-

the studied city.

ture across the world.

tions made for the case studies.

62

To imply the derived urban design

Design Proposal showing the implica-

strategies on the city of Pune in order

tion of the frame structure and demon- cal intent of the research for the prac-

to enhance its image.

strating practical inferences of the

titioners and designers, to improve a

research.

city’s identity.

To test and comment on the immortali-

Critically Analysing the final output of

Final set of guidelines developed from

ty of the proposed frame-structure for

the research for timelessness and im-

the past, which can be used to improve

further use in future.

mortality for future developments.

the present and future of cities.

63

Design output demonstrating the practi-

3.2 Structure of Thesis:

This diagram gives an overview of the entire thesis and its structure, which is then further explained step by step and point by point with relevant texts, diagrams and graphs. This chapter clearly marks the course of the research undertaken in this thesis. It also discusses the proposed solution and the mode of its application. This research is conducted based on the definitions stated in Chapter two.

64

fig 3.1

3.3 Vernacular Urbanism as a Analysing Tool: 3.3.1 Evolution – As a frame-structure

Vernacular, City Formation and Identity are the three topics of interest

discussed in this paper. All the phenomenon’s discussed in this paper are subjective to people’s perception, contextual setup and time. As the former two notions are different for different people and places (i.e they are subjective to people and places), time is the constant change every person experiences in any place across the globe.

Time is a constant factor of change which is objective in nature and in-

fluences all the three terms discussed in the paper. Thus the frame-structure of vernacular urbanism is pivoted on the factor of time and evolution for this particular research. A substantial and noticeable change in the city is seen over a decade and so is true in case of changing geographical, cultural and social impacts influencing a city (Ghosh, 2015).

Evolution is used to understand the changing impacts of the tangible fac-

tors as well as to map the graph of human aspirations, emotions and demands. .

65

The analysing tool designed in this particular thesis is in the format of a graph. The following diagram shows how has the graph been assembeled to analyse a city for its changing identity and impact on its users, in it’s different stages of growth, with reference to vernacular factors (mentioned in chapter two).

1

2

3

As mentioned above the tool is de- Where X axis denotes ‘growth of the

Analysis of the corresponding ele-

signed as a graph thus laying X and

city’ and Y axis, ‘morphological layers

ments along X and Y axis is conducted

Y axis.

forming the city’.

on the intersecting points.

5

4

The above shown graphic shows the

A third dimension, of vernacular is

proportionate impact of the vernacular

added in the form of a colored legend,

factors (shown in point no. 5) on indi-

used to represent the analysis of X

vidual layers of city and the changes

and Y axis on the intersecting points.

corresponding to the growth of a city.

66

3.3.2 Generic Analysis Frame-Structure

The following image shows the final outcome of the above explained

steps and the points of intersection and analysis. This is a generic graph which will help analyse and understand any city for its vernacular impact and changing characteristics of the same over a period of it’s development.

67

68 fig 3.3

3.3.3 Hypothetical Example

A hypothetical example or city is considered in the following image to

demonstrate the use of the frame structure practically. The intersecting points of analysis considered are hypothetical and can change from region to region.

The data considered for the demonstration below, to understand the in-

fluence of vernacular factors on the city are theorotical and unreal.

69

70 fig 3.4

3.4 Case studies In order to achieve above shown nodes of analysis, below discussed theory is taken as a reference to analyse a city. The application of this theory is shown by analysing the contemplated case studies and the case example considered for design proposal.

The case study of the case examples is divided into two parts, first the doc-

umentation of the cities and second is the analysis of the documented city. This research uses Simon Sinek’s famous theory of Golden Circles, where one tries fig 3.5

to understand a city’s development and progress based on three basic questions, WHAT?

What, How and Why, for occurrence of any incident of change in the urban fabric of a city (Overdorp, 2014).

Even though the author has discussed this theory worldwide in terms of

management and functioning of a company; Sinek’s theory offers an interesting perception, for the designers as well as the layman, of understanding for any on-going process, around them, across any faculty. This theory also relates diHOW? fig 3.6

rectly to the loop of identity formation, created in the beginning of the chapter which will be demonstrated further (Barker, 2013).

71

This theory in context to this thesis is used in the following way:

i. What

‘What’ relates to the final outcome, which we see, of any process involved

behind functioning of a city, which could be a physical progress or cultural transition or change in social and political framework of a city. In order to understand the physical appearance of any change, creation or transition of urban element, one could ask, what are the events occurring and physical features of the considered urban fabric?

ii. How

Once the first step is answered the next question asked is ‘How’ it happens

‘What’ has happened or should happen? This part of the circle investigates into the role and functionality of the physical elements or events existing in the urban fabric, thus asking in regard to the physical elements and sequence of events, ‘How’ to do ‘What’ is done or to be done?

72

iii. Why

This is the critical part of any process which most of the current gener-

ation designers tend to ignore under the spark of achieving ‘What’ they want to achieve. This is the innermost circle questioning the purpose and intent of every incident, occurrence of every event and presence of every built form in the urban fabric of a city. This section tends one to ask, ‘Why’ we do, ‘What’ we do and ‘How’ we do.

The theory of golden circle and its concentric layers are read in two ways,

in context to this thesis, one is the typical method usually used by the layman to understand his surroundings and, and second is, the ideal way of designing any city, thus forming an efficient design tool for better cities. The former method is also used as a documentation tool, when analysing or studying a city. (Partridge, 2014)

This theory can be used to understand as well as design a particular re-

gion, town or city. This can be done as demonstrated below.

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• Documentation Tool

Studying a city and its formation outside-in of the golden circle,

What – How – Why sequence of investigating a city and its features helps document a place for its existing features. This also further creates a database for deriving guidelines for better planning.

fig 3.7

• Design Tool

The above mentioned sequence when used in exactly reverse manner (Why – How – What) helps a designer to create sensitive places which are at human scale and respond to a community’s need, rather than creating meaningless iconic structures and places in the city. This can thus help re-install the image of a city.

fig 3.8

74

3.5 Vernacular Urbanism as a Design Tool

This forms the second conclusion of this paper after the analysis frame

structure formulated above. A set of guidelines are proposed, derived from a parallel study of theories discussed in chapter two, and their practical implication on the case studies using the proposed frame structure above.

The design recommendations proposed in conclusion (chapter 5) will be

generic and flexible to suit any city, town or region across the world. As the local context changes from region to region the physical manifestation and mode of their application should change from region to region.

This chapter will give designers an insight of the basic principles on which

better and sensitive urban areas can be established, with an improved place identity.

Adjoining image gives a schematic represantation of an outlook proposed

in this thesis against the most common and inappropriate interpretation of urban fig 3.9

design in majority of regions worldwide. The flow of design process in red being the proposed vernacular outlook and, in blue being that of the latter.

75

Furthermore fig shows the relevance of this schematic presenation (fig) in

accordance to, first the theory of Golden Circle and then the elements of Urban design.

Case Example / Case city For a better and practical understanding of the above mentioned theory of Vernacular Urbanism, the analysis tool and design tool derived from it in this thesis, a case example is tested. This is achieved by implementing the above obtained conclusions and derivations on the city of Pune in Maharashtra, India.

This will also demonstrate the collateral functioning of the analysing and design tool to achieve the hypothesis made on the theory of Vernacular Urbanism for a better place identity of rapidly growing urban areas and cities.

76

Chapter Four: Case Studies

77

For this research, given the time constraint, this chapter has been simpli-

fied in order to achieve a reasonable conclusion. The case studies are divided into three cities, based on the local factors forming the frame structure of vernacular urbanism, namely, geographical, cultural and socio-economic factors of a city. Every chosen city predominantly exhibits one of the above mentioned factors, thus streamlining the analysis of a city only to its specific character.

Even though an individualistic approach of analysis has been undertaken

in this chapter, the idealistic way of understanding a city to its smallest detail is by analysing the impact of, all the three vernacular factors, on its urban fabric over a period of time. This is demonstrated in the last chapter of this thesis, with an illustration of application of the frame structure on a city and design recommendations for improving its image.

4.1 Approach

fig 4.1

In creating massive intervention into the urban fabric, the fraternity of

urban design should look at the cities of Europe and should fill the urban fabric with more local interactions between each block, relate to city’s past history and

78

respond to cultural and social needs of the local residents of the city to create an urban image and atmosphere of the given city. Thus the case studies considered for this thesis are chosen from european continent as shown in adjoining figure.

4.2 Considerations and Limitations of case studies.

In order to simplify the theory of Vernacular Urbanism, the threee vernac-

ular factors (geographical, cultural and socio-economical) are analysed individually in context of three cities that show prominence of respective factor.

Though the case studies are considered and analysed for a prominent fac-

tor, the impact of other two factors cannot be undervalued. This contemplation is done to achieve an overall outlook of the aspects forming the factor of impact.

Thus every city is analysed specifically for its relevant factor, along with a

combined impact of the other two factors briefly.

79

fig 4.2

80

Venice – Geographical Impact

Venice, the city of canals as famously known world-wide is facing a num-

ber of problems due its geographical location. A number of questions on survival of the city have been raised and discussed by many scholars with an attempt to propose solutions for the city’s rescue. Along with raising water levels, the city is also sinking with passing time (Staff, 2012). The forces causing the sinking of the city are natural ones which could possibly be tectonic plates and related to their drifting.

The city is by the engineers in the past was completely built on water, us-

ing local materials and techniques invented to suit the material. The water earlier was boon as it created a natural defence from the foreign attackers similar to a moat in a castle.

Venice is a great example of evolution of technology and building tech-

niques right from its past where the challenge was to construct an entire new city to the present challenge of saving the same city (Anon., 2017). The present day solution to save the city is a proposal of mobile floodgates which would rise to the surface when floods affect the city (Economist, 2003).

81

Amongst all this proposals of developments, to understand the impact of

these on the identity of the city and citizens of Venice, is the main focus of this case study.

The immense pressure on the lands due to the enormous number of tour-

ists visiting is also one of the possible reasons for the adverse effects occurring in Venice. Venice and its romantic canal rides in local Gondolas, according to venetians were never romanticised originally. In order to understand the effects of these geographical changes on the place identities following regions are studied across time.

Venice - Area of Study

The areas considered for this chapter are San Polo, Santa Croce and Can-

neregio. These areas will be studied to map and understand the changes observed by the city, in its different morphological layers, over it’s period of evolution.

Areas from the city are considered based on their growth and develop-

ment. The main land of Venice being a small city doesnt witness any major land spread. Thus the regions selected for study are based upon their development with time and technology.

82

Growth of Venice

San Polo - Old city

fig 4.3

Santa Croce - mark in Connectivity

fig 4.4

83

Canneregio - modern development

fig 4.5

San Polo - Old city

Santa Croce - mark in Connectivity

Canneregio - modern development

San polo is one of the oldest sestiere

Canneregio is one of the most recent

or districts of Venice and is the one of

for its car parks, car access and bus developments of the city. It showcas-

the most famous districts amongst the

station. This area was affected major- es planned residential with optimum

tourists. Earlier the district

ly due to opening of the lagoon road,

street widths and appropriate sanita-

was known for amongst the traders

as all the motorised access originates

tion system. It is the area where the lo-

This district is majorly known

and was the most important commer- and terminates in this area of the is- cals still reside, which otherwise from cial and economical area. One could find jewellers, bankers, trade inspectors and tax collectors (Preziuso, n.d.).

land.

most of the parts have vanquished as This area is majorly commer-

cialised for the tourists visiting Venice

This area was also known for

through motorway, and is developed

its very famous fish markets and was

as a reception point with tourist shops

the first inhabited areas of Venice. The

and huge malls.

markets from past, exist till date with changed intentions of trade; the markets no longer sale goods for the locals but for the tourists visiting Venice (Brodsky, 2011).

a result of increasing tourism.

This area hoods the major ports connecting the island to surrounding islands and airport, thus making it an important sector (Aldallal et al., 2016).

As motor vehicles cannot access

The area was introduced with a

this area, the serenity of the area is

railway bridge connecting the island

maintained, with no tourists affecting

of Venice to mainland Venice and con- the lifestyle of the people (Corbo, 2014). struction of the railway station, gave the area a modernized look.

84

2 • Plot Grain - San Polo

A dense, complex and organic plot grain is seen in the old city. With nar-

row back alleys and main entry to the plots from canals.

The land face running along the edge of Grand Canal 1 has constantly exhibitted a commercial land use, though the activities have changed from a goods collecting and exchange point to a highly glamourised tourist spot with a number of attractions.

Despite of such a drastic change in the ex- t e r n a l fig 4.6

faces of this area the internal allotments have maintained a similar language of their origin.

1 3.1

fig 4.9

fig 4.8

1

fig 4.7

3.2

fig 4.10

A major and the biggest canal running through the city, connecting it to ocean.

85

3

• Plot Grain - Santa Croce

A similar compact and organic plot structure is seen like in San Polo.

The plots here are comparatively larger as this is the only district with an access to conventional vehicles. Bigger plots for parking fascilities, bus stops and train stations mark out the major area of this district.

This being a vehicular zone, Venetians have all their major commercial activities conducted in this sestiere.

The area marked along the Grand Canal,

fig 4.11

has more or less a similar land ditribution and plot style as that of San

fig 4.12

Polo, except this area being less glamorous than the first studied.

1

2.1

fig 4.13

2.2

fig 4.14

86

fig 4.15

1

• Plot Grain - Canneregio

This is recently developed residential area from a former industrial zone.

Due to it’s latest redevelopment the plots are spacious and spread out. The plots are organised as compared to the earlier developments.

The land use distribution in this area is an outcome of the resident’s needs, thus giving this area a different and more local identity than those areas oriented towards tourists.

Though its a new development, constructed using newer technologies, ca1 tering to the present generations aspi-

fig 4.16

fig 4.17

fig 4.18

2

rations and needs; Urban fabric of the city is maintained.

fig 4.19

87

• Street Character - San Polo

Conventional streets dint exist in old city of Venice. Canals being the

main access roads and boats or Gondolas1 being it’s main mode of transport.

Though water being the main mode of transport back lanes or service lanes

Back Lane fig 4.21

existed initially in the city. This were majorly used by the residents to dump garbage. The land being marshy due to its geographical location, along with the garbage invited pigs and severe diseases.

Thus these back lanes vanished earlier unless they were re-introduced recently with improved hygiene conditions.

Main Access fig 4.20

fig 4.22

Main access bein directly through water, buildings were built along the water edge, which in return gave building facades a very typical and local wash of dampness thus creating a unique street character.

Internal connectivity was maintained by creating small wooden bridges for pedestrian use, generally connecting into open spaces (known as Campo) for community interaction.

1

Typical name for the traditional boats used by Venetians to commute as well as transport goods.

88

fig 4.23

• Street Character - Santa Croce

Santa Croce is the only district in mainland Venice with a vehicular

access. Thus a drastic change in character, with broader motor-ways is seen, which is not typical about Venice.

This area sees a contrasting milieu of

Water-way fig 4.25

both the images with a part accomodating the buses, vehicles and trains and another catering to the classic water canals in order ease the movement to and from the island as well as increse it’s connectivity to other pats of the continent.

The internal regions of this district were

Motor-way fig 4.24

fig 4.26

then introduced with set-backs forming pathways in order to prevent swamping of the structures as flood being a regular event for the residents. these pathways being created for commuting purposes than as service lanes solved issues relating to hygiene and cleanliness. New entries along the path were created leaving the former entrance abandoned, to tell a story from past.

fig 4.27

89

• Street Character - Canneregio

A blend of modern urban infrastructure and techniques with the ex-

isting fabric of the city is seen in this region. A street hierarchy can be seen in the streets along this area. The in-

Open Space

ternal streets are broader than the ear-

fig 4.29

lier studied areas, thus ventilating the pathways and reducing the dampness in the region. Though a slight change in the street character with plots opening into a wider street unlike earlier is seen due to this planning, it has created an improved place for the users.

Canal

The area is white-washed to match the

fig 4.28

fig 4.30

brick finish of the rest of the city. Also the roofs style and building height are maintained as a part of it being build on reclaimed land and its foundation being floating on water, not much of a height can be achieved, nor there is any need of densification in the city at the moment.

Due to heavy number of tourists visiting this place this is the only residential area occupied by the locals in the entire city. fig 4.31

90

• Legibility - Old City

fig 4.32

• Legibility - 19th Century

fig 4.33

• Legibility - Current Scenario

fig 4.34

Legibility has seen a drastic change in Venice right from rugged wooden gondolas being used as mode of transport for both people and goods to introducing motorised boats in 19th century, to romanticizing the gondolas for tourist attraction. the 19th century also saw motorised vehicular connection to nearby land which brought vehicles like buses and trains to this island.

The introduction of motorised vehicle and boats eased the life of the users without much negative impact to the identiy.

A drastic shift in the use and appearance of gondolas was seen, leaving it merely as a tourist activity, as no local residents used it in present situation.

91

fig 4.35

fig 4.36

fig 4.37

Apart from this, internal connectivity is confined to pedestrian movement and connected over the canals through bridges. A vernacular change in these bridges is seen in it’s materials, changing with time and technology.v

92

• Safety - Old City

fig 4.38

• Safety - 19th Century

• Safety - Current Scenario

fig 4.39

fig 4.40

Safety on micro level has increased with passing time from narrow alley ways to broader streets; to introducing open public spaces around religious and community engaging structures.

Changing the point of access to every structure with passing time also safegaurds the users and their property from changing water levels.

At macro scale the current government has introduced a project, creating portable flood gates which rise and function as the water levels in ocean increase thus safegaurding the island from natural disasters.

93

• Blue and Green Network This being the strongest element which guides and dominates the planning and design of Venice. Though the water canal is a strong element and well incorporated with thw design, green spaces are only being introduced recently in the form of open squares and plantations along the internal streets.

94

Venice - Inferences

95

fig 4.41

96

Paris – Cultural Impact

When the local culture of a place is mentioned, it involves the local food,

art, music, festivals, traditions and customs. Sometimes the definition of culture is also extended to the smell, sound and vibe one gets when walking along the city’s streets.

When talking about culture, immediately the second thought which would

come to one’s mind is Paris. The French are very proud of their cuisine, art, fashion, architecture and culture (Anon., 1987). Food in particular is seen throughout the culture and tradition of Paris in all its forms, right from restaurants, cafes, groceries, and super markets up to tourism. Food is a very important element of Parisians culture as they socialise over it, may it be an elaborate dinner or a quick talk over evening coffee. French embrace style and sophistication and are very proud about the fact that even their public places have a royal impact (Zimmermann, 2017). And the same is seen in the city’s art architecture and urban design. Every street is iconized by a range of ornate cafes and food joints, with a wide range of price.

97

Paris as a city was divided into 20 arrondissements or districts geograph-

cally, with every sector having its own cultural identity based on the era it developed in and the nature of people occupying the particular areas (Velasco, 2011).

As the resident’s mind-set forms the basic nature of any regions identity, the districts of Paris exhibit a huge range of diversity and transition in their cultural behaviours.

Paris has seen a transformation in its culture to the current situation

where the subjects of importance are intellectuality, art in all its forms, theatre, cinemas and culinary skills.

Here below are three sectors of Paris dating back to different centuries

with their resemblance to particular style of urban design and distinct cultural qualities as reflected in its urban fabric.

98

Growth of Paris

La Marais - Old City

fig 4.42

Monmartre - Cultural Hub

fig 4.43

99

La Defense - Business District

fig 4.44

La Marais - Old City

Montmartre - Cultural Hub

La Marias is one of the oldest

La Defense - Business District

Montmartre is an area estab-

La Defense is the major business

region of Paris which is highly active

lished by the artists, poets and sing- district in Paris, which falls out of the

in today’s century due to its cultural

ers somewhere around 19th century.

arrondissements and is not grouped

richness.

This area is located on a hill and was

under any of the sectors of paris. It

untouched until tourism hit Paris. The

is a purpose made district, which was

artists and painters found the required

recently created in the city’s urban

solace and frames to enhance and

history. In order to regain the dimin-

An area of importance in past,

post French revolution lost its importance in the noble community due to which it was then converted into an active commercial area; though its cultural importance was later revived when the settlements of Jewish community occupied the region, who en-

beautify the art. The artists preferred ishing interest of people in the city and staying in this area for its low real

to restructure the economy of the city,

estate prices and cheap plots, where

this district was proposed. It creates a

they could easily invest into their stu- high contrast in image of the city with dios.

riched the culture of the area. Re-in-

high rising modern towers and fast Unfortunately,

an

area

with

moving streets where the local culture of Paris is compromised (Anon., n.d.).

troduction of activity generating urban

such pure and charming history is fac-

fabric like cafes, libraries, museums

ing the most intense adverse effects of

and art galleries offer a platform for

modernization and tourism. The peak

city is considered this district fits in

cultural and intellectual interaction

of this area which is marked

smoothly forming a curve behind Arc

100

If the overall skyline of the

amongst the Parisians and as well as

by the Basilica of Sacre Coeur is now

with non-Parisians (Anon., n.d.).

polluted with petty artists demonstrat- area has transformed and is oriented

This area is known for its cob-

bled streets, narrow shady lanes, boutique shops, cafes, and bakeries. The street structure was criticised by Haussmann and his delegates when redesigning Paris, though the character of the area was maintained with no major changes. In order to retain

ing and displaying their art styles in

towards the local requirements of the

order to attract the tourist. The main

commercial land use.

path leading to the top is populated with souvenir shops and other tourist attractions, where the area loses its actual essence to modernization (Anon., n.d.).

unflavoured

construction

were sanctioned.

The impact of cultural changes

and transitions in the area on its urban fabric are demonstrated further:

Despite the local character be-

ing transformed, the basic cultural elements forming identity are retained and amalgamated with modernism to suit the image formed by the sky-

Though the area is dominat- scrapers. Cultural forums like open

the character of the place policies re- ed by tourists, apart from the main stricting

de Triomphe. The local culture in the

air theatres, museums and open spac-

axis and the summit of the hill, inter- es highlighting historical monuments nal roads offer a serene image of the

form the link between old Paris and

place. There are a number of hidden the new intervention, La Defense. galleries and museums which are ma-

Despite the striking polarity in

jorly used by the locals for exchange

its appearance to that of existing fab-

of thoughts.

ric, the area was appreciated by many and attracted a huge crowd, rejuvenating culture in Paris.

101

• Plot Grain - La Marais

Shorter side of plots facing the streets, with maximum openings on the

streets, thus activating the streets and promoting interaction amongst individuals. This interaction further leads to fig 4.46

exchange of thoughts and culture, thus enriching the identity of the street and adding to the character of the area or city.

Angular plots which otherwise would have created dead facades, in La Marais shelter functions like cafes and boutiques, thus promoting a lively town-

Narrow plots, Active streets fig 4.45

fig 4.47

scape, thus striking an interaction between general public and the built form.

Most of the plots are of mixed use typology, in order to create a safe and lively environment for the residents.

fig 4.48

102

• Plot Grain - Montmartre

The plot shape and size is more or less governed by the geographical

factors in this area, as it is situated on a hill. Thus creating built forms fig 4.50

which sit back from the street edge.

Another major reason for the plots to be secluded from the main streets was due to the users which were mostly the artists, as they needed their space, detached and undisturbed from the

Highest point of the hill

passing by public.

fig 4.49

As this area was first occupied by artists, who ended up selecting plots and

fig 4.51

building structures based on the likes and dislikes from the perspective of their art; which further resulted in no proper distribution of land use typologies, thus creating dark and uncertain pockets, leaving a negative impact of the area.

Further this area today is the most culturally exploited sector where artists have become money-oriented and perform their skills only with an intention to attract tourists and make money. Due to which a central focal point of activity is created leaving rest of the hill lifeless and stagnant.

fig 4.52

103

• Plot Grain - La Defense

A bigger and organised plot grain is observed in this area. Forms an im-

age of crispness and boldness due to scaled up plots. Human scale is lost to the stardom of structures. This is majorly due to the sole purpose of the sectors fig 4.54

planning being commercial character.

Plot distribution similar to above studied areas distributed along a main axis, blends with city’s urban fabric.

A new and different physical manifestation of city’s culture is exhibited in this area fulfilling younger genera-

Towards Arc de Triomphe

tions demands of modernisation

fig 4.53

fig 4.55

A typical plot distribution of mostly commercial regions is observed, justifying its purpose.

Along with commercial zones several recreational areas are marked, glorifying the cultural activities as a response to city’s vernacular.

Though an attempt of preserving culture is seen, the identity on streets has faded due to large plots forming elongated lifeless facdes.

fig 4.56

104

• Street Character - La Marais

Narrow cobbled streets with meandering and slightly organic1 internal

pathways , gives a feel of the street character from the past, though mod-

fig 4.58

ern day activities and user demands have been regenerated along this street. This helps one connect to its past and creates a historical setup for the people which further strengthens the cultural roots of the city.

The

façade

height

is

maintained

throughout the area, irrespective of

Triangular open spaces fig 4.57

its style and functional role. In order to allow day light into the streets and increase its usage throughout the year.

Triangular public spaces are seen at every fork junction in the street network thus creating interactive and rejuvenating places for the locals and visitors.

A well-blended contrast in construction style is seen along the facade of this region, thus creating a positive drift in identity.

1

fig 4.59

Organic as compared to other linear roads existing throughout the city.

105

• Street Character - Montmartre

Streets in this area are dominated by the local shops essential for res-

idents operation in their day to day life, as located on a hill, thus a self-sustained area.

Not a major change in the image of residential of this hill is noticed.

A major change in image of this area is seen between, the tourist oriented

fig 4.61

space on top of the hill around the basillica and rest of the hill occupied by the locals. The culture has changed from artists being residents in this place for its serene and scenic qualities, to artists visiting the hill to attract tourists.

The streets and alleyways open into a mesmerizing view of the city, due to its location on height thus giving a picteresque character to particular streets. fig 4.62

fig 4.63 fig 4.60

106

• Street Character - La Defense

The streets of this part of Paris are dead, and most of the activities are

constrained in the closed structures, with huge malls and multipurpose theatres coming up. This is caused due to continous non-interacting facade. fig 4.65

Huge open spaces unlike other two areas, deprive this region from human scale and association.

A fast moving lifestyle of the users is observed, as it being purely commercial area, with no residents. This fur-

fig 4.64

ther adds to the dead character of the street after office hours.

The basic principle of axis orientation and forming focal points is boldly re-pro-

fig 4.66

duced in accordance to the needs of the area.

A gradually increase in building heights from that of the city’s fabric creates an impact of harmonious change in the skyline.

Eventhough the language of building type and plot size has changed the street character for this area is formulated based on observations from earlier developed regions as discussed above. Thus maintaining a invisible connect between the old city and newer developments.

fig 4.67

107

• Legibility - Old City

• Legibility - Cultural Hub

• Legibility - Business District

Streets are designed priortizing

Montmartre being located on a

It is one of the highly efficient

pedestrians as streets are the major

hill is full of connections physically

road networks amongst the areas

ground of cultural interaction and ex-

going up and down. With meandering

in Paris, except for the circle at arc

change. This makes it difficult for ve-

and gradient streets and reasonable

de triomphe, which segments into 8

hicular movement thus promoting use

connectivity of publictransport, locals

connecting roads, thus confusing the

of public transport.

prefer their own vehicle.

drivers. Untill an unless the driver

A well-connected public transport is

Though the outer main roads assist

uses that road daily, it is difficult to

observed thus promoting community

vehicular movement, sometimes it

memorize the roads and their con-

living over individualistic living.

becomes difficult to drive in internal

necting araes, as well as it being a

Internal streets are well connected to

alleywaays.

huge, open circle their is a lot of cha-

the major areas of public interest and

Also as it is on a slope, a few streets

os, thus creating a cluttered image

functional requirements. Thus creat-

on various levels are connected with

for the users.

ing a public flow as well as connect-

a flight of stairs.

This was designed by Hausamann

ing the local residents to required ba-

prioritizing his ambition

of high-

sic necessities.

lighting grandeur of the arc over it’s impact on functionality of city’s road network.

108

• Safety - Old City

• Safety - Cultural Hub

• Safety - Business District

Based on the above stated char-

A few dark pockets are created,

The area in the evening after

acters of the urban fabric in La Marais,

with dead end streets, creating a neg-

all the commercial spaces are shut

a safe environment is experienced by

ative impact on place identity.

becomes barren and inhuman, thus

both the residents as well as visitors.

The area being majorly governed by

giving a negative identity of the im-

This is achieved because of a strong

residences, makes it dead post-eve-

age. This is because mono typology of

urban mix of building typologies, thus

ning, when everyone return back

land use creates the void in activity

keeping the area safe all round the

home, thus making the streets and

based on its working hours.

clock.

neighbourhood silent and dark.

This further leads to formation of positive identity.

Safety in city of paris has changed with time, area and urban land distribution, with latter being the most im-

portant of all the aspects. Safety plays an unconscious role in impacting identity, Thus it becomes absolutely important for users to feel comfortable and safe in an area to create it’s positive image.

109

• Blue and Green Network

Major impact being cultural, a slight impact of natural elements is seen in formation of Parisian place identity.

Though it has not changed much with passing time, one of the major event was division of the city into two due to centrally cutting river. This has not had much effect on the identity of two regions unless in the outermost developments where one could observe a noticeable contrast.

Another natural element existing was the hill of Montmartre, which was earlier the ground for mills and small scale industries. initially it was occupied by a few artists for it silence and scenery, and then eventually flooded with different types of peopl, due to its increasing popularity with artists as art is an important element of parisian culture.

110

Paris - Inferences

111

fig 4.68

112

Berlin – Socio-Economical Impact

Berlin came into existence only when it was declared imperial capital and

then started the journey of its urban growth and transformation. Before berlin was established as an independent nation, the rulers considered their thought, before establishing their seat in the city, as they found the Berliners to be very liberal, disruptive and inclined to socially stimulating culture. (Schnurr, 2012).

The founder of the city being industrialization, the growth of Berlin was

considered on economic terms. The initial construction in the city was an affair of random location of the sites without any considerable thoughts to the surrounding context or existing feature of landscape. In order to maintain the social status gained as 3rd largest metropolitan until First World War, the city’s development sprawled into countryside constructing ornamental structures like squares and promenades (Department, n.d.).

Finally post 2nd world war, the discrimination in social and economic

structures was broken down to introduce and embrace versatile and mixed development offering equal opportunities to all the residents (Kramer, 2013). This versatile approach where designers along with public particpation put across

113

their thoughts on why is the development needed and what is the purpose of this development over economy oriented discussions.

Public realm being a very strong attribute of this city, gives it a positive

identity despite of a number of social and political impacts faced by it throughout it’s history. As a result of which a versatile city fulfilling every citizens imagination is created, thus making it stand out from those which are built over the theories of consumerism.

As the city of Berlin is huge, it is practically impossible to analyse different

areas of it evolution. As boulevards form an important character of the city in history and present, boullevards affected by various social and political incidents are considered for the purpose of case study.

114

Growth of Berlin

Unter den Linden - Old City

fig 4.69

Kurfustendamm - West Berlin

fig 4.70

115

Holzmarkt - Proposed development

fig 4.71

Unter den Linden - Old City

Kurfustendamm - West Berlin

This boulevard was first origi-

This boulevard lies amidst the

Holzmarkt - Proposed development

The development considered is

nated to connect the royal area to the

most important commercial sector of a plan proposed for future construc-

onlt nearby garden for the purpose of

West Berlin before the dividing wall of

tion. The developer’s initially proposed

hunting.

the city was demolished.

luxury lofts, hotels and company head-

This area has changed its iden-

It had replaced the ipmportant

quarters for this area. This was op-

tity with every incident in Berlin. Later

structures from almost all the realms

posed by the local Berliners in order

it was lined with a boulevard of trees

which the area had lost to it’s eastern

to be included in the development of

and places of social, cultural and edu- part after its division.

their city’s riverfront. This concern, in

cational importance were constructed.

In no time after construction of Ber- the locals since 2008, has paved way

After the brutal divide of city into east

lin wall, west Berlin had developed

for the formation of a cooperative. The

and west, this boulevard terminated in

around this area.

choice of location has been a prudent

the wall created thus losing all its im-

Western Berlin had a shift of

decision because its a piece of land

portance.

identity where it had to accommodate that connects three districts of Mitte,

functions of three zones of occupation Kruezberg and Friedrichshein. The

Later, this area was completely

distroyed in second world war after

in Berlin to an aoutonomous city. It

development is planned to be an eco-

which this street was restored, re-in- was earlier in late 19th centuries that

nomic affair in otherwise a very costly

stalling its royal character from past.

this place was famous with artists and

set up. It is planned over a period of

marked a number of famous theatres

ten years and includes proposals for0

This is the first place where the

116

new Berlin developed, which was in

and cafes, out of which only a few still

context of the palace area on the bou- exist.

a technology centre, a club, a park, a restaurant and a hotel, but all being

levard Unter den Linden. Since then,

Due to its rapid development and im- built with the involvement of the locals

till date the street is considered to be

mediate stability post the division, this

in designing and execution. The area

of political, social and administrative

region had gained global fame amongst

also aims at breaking the monotony of

importance.

western countries. Soon with passing

the riverfront high rise dominion by

time this region had faded out from

strictly staying close to the ground.

the global spotlight and eventually the

The motto behind the process

urban image of this region was domi- that a city can grow up without losnated and confined to a walled-in city.

ing the identity is a very novel and

encouraging step towards vernacular

Today this region is famous as

a vibrant shopping street during the day time and occupied by the artists and theatre visitors during the night.

This further causes a change in this regions identity in a day as well.

117

and identity of the place.

• Plot Grain - Unter den Linden

Huge plots occupying administrative, educational and political buildings,

exhibit the grandeur of the axis. As it defines a typical image of structures managing the welfare of the city.

fig 4.73

Many times damaged in the past this area has been revived a several times, for which new land uses as per growing needs were incorporated along with its original purpose.

The area had lost its charm and

importance during the divide and sec-

Boulevard and surrounding area fig 4.72

fig 4.74

ond world war, though today it is one of the most visited, versatile and lively area exhibiting a royal character and identity of the place.

This area is rejuvenated further for present scenario by adding cafes and restaurants.

This area has seen political rallies in past and present, due to its land use typology. fig 4.75

118

• Plot Grain - Kurfurstendamm

This area gained fame with the division of the city into east and west. Its

majorly known for its huge shopping plots and cultural complexes.

Initially a spree of theatres and ca-

fig 4.77

fes creating a hub for artists was observed in this area along with its political importance.

Though after reunification of

Berlin the political and economical structures faded, this area then had theatres, huge shopping complex and cafes forming its identity.

Boulevard and surrounding area

fig 4.78

fig 4.76

Despite its inhuman scale of plots, engagement of residents in its planning and development creates a bond of belonging amongst users and structures.

This area also sees many historic plots merging well along with the new modern developments. fig 4.79

119

• Street Character - Unter den Linden

A strict grid iron pattern is noticed in this area, with a main axis adjoined

with socially and politically significant structures. This is done in order to maintain the decorum and portray the

fig 4.81

power and authority of the area.

Despite of being a wide boulevard, it is a pedestrian dominant street, forming a platform for a number of social and anti-social activities right from protests to socialising incafes and sharing

fig 4.80 fig 4.82

knowledge in famous libraries.

Earlier this street was dominated by lime and trees which in turn gave the street its name. Recently landscape and greenery is compromised, though well-designed street furniture is witnessed. Landscape is undermined in order to boast the grand and dominant facades of the built form along the street.

The facades were maintained from the past with introducing modern internal planning, as said to be a common practice of neo-renaissance, which was then

fig 4.83

a major art movement seen in Berlin.

120

• Street Character - Kurfurstendamm

This area has a unique street characteristic compared to other two re-

gions studied in this case study. The first case area exhibits a historical street facade ressembling the art

fig 4.85

movements, and the new proposed development studied further under this chapter has a very modern outlook.

This region in contrast is a confluence point of both the periods and their identities, complementing each other.

The modern extensions added to the

Church and its surroundings in past fig 4.84

destroyed character of the street are designed in order enhance the existing fabric than overpowering it. Though the modern additions supplement the existing character, they have their own language which is inturn enhanced by the existing structures.

fig 4.86

121

• Legibility

Berlin being a huge city, is well connected with public transport since the past. Though it faced a huge destruc-

tion after the world war, it created a well integrated road network as well as a convenient connectivity through public transport. This is majorly due to Berlin’s outlook towards design and planning of city and fascility which is user oriented than profit-oriented. Comfort and demands of public form the basis of any development with a huge contribution from public realm itself.

• Safety

Safety in the city of Berlin has varied from region to region and era to era. Safety on a political has been an issue

throughout Berlin’s history with majorly marked events like the world wars, division of Berlin and the dictatorship of Nazi party.

Safety in terms of an urban fabric varies from area to area, as this city being a versatile combination of various

user demands, one need be cautious in the areas out of their comfort zones. Despite this variety of land typologies and it’s several uses, the city feels safe as a mix of urban uses is seen across the city, thus keeping it awake and active around the clock.

122

• Proposed Development - Holzmarkt As described above, this is an economical proposal of socialazing the riverfront as a response to the local identity and maintaining it’s image.

fig 4.87

fig 4.88

fig 4.89

fig 4.90

123

Berlin - Inferences

124

Chapter Five: Conclusion

125

5.1 Design Guidelines

This chapter compiles and establishes guidelines to be implied when de-

signing any city, which are derived from the theory of Vernacular Urbanism introduced in above chapters. These guidelines are laid with a motive to improve the identity of a city1, with vernacular urbanism being one of the solutions discussed in this thesis. These guidelines are derived from a parallel study of theories and characteristics of the urban morphological layers2 along with primary case studies analyzed in Chapter 4.

Even though earlier in the paper the three factors of Vernacular are stud-

ied individually for better understanding of each segment, they are mutually interdependent and have an impact on one another. Thus the guidelines are formed considering vernacular as a whole in this chapter.

City is a complex figure to be understood as whole, therefore vernacular

guidelines for urban design are further sub-divided into categories in order to simplify the term, ‘Vernacular Urbanism’.

1 As mentioned in chapter 2, to improve the identity of a city refers to creating a positive, unique and engaging impression of a city for the residents as well as visitors.

2 Urban morphological layers as described in chapter 2 of premise, disintegrated into individual layers in order to understand the complexity of city formation.

126

These are divided under individual morphological layers formulating a city.

These are a set of generic guidelines which can have several physical manifestations and the guidelines should be prioritized by analyzing a holistic image of the real time situation differing from city to city and region to region.. •

Plot Grain

• Geographical

i.

Plot grain should complement its existing topographical fea-

tures rather than modifying the ground conditions for ease of planning.

ii.

Also it should set in the mold created by the surrounding nat-

ural features.

iii.

Plot style should be response to the micro climate of the re-

gion in order to design a comfortable neighborhood for the user group.

iv.

Plot distribution should be decided keeping in mind the

strength of the soil it is designed for along with catering density of the region. • Cultural

i.

Study of this factor helps derive an idealistic mixture of build-

ing typologies based on the cultural needs of the region or city.

127

ii.

Culture of a community also helps determine plot style of that

particular user group, thus retaining the cultural values of the city.

• Socio-Economic

i.

A mixed distribution of plots bringing together all social groups

can reestablish equality and community living in a society.

ii.

Participation of local public in discussions regarding plot style

and plot distributions will increase a sense of belonging amongst the users, towards their city.

iii.

A mixed distribution of building typologies will maintain the

land prices throughout the city thus preventing formation of contrasting images of regions in a same city based on the economy group using it.

128

•

Street Character

• Geographical

i.

Use of locally available materials, labor and artisans creates

an image of locale thus improving the identity.

ii.

Taming the land topography in order to determine imagery

from a different region or city can cause adverse effects on environment as well as its identity.

iii.

Street patterns, street facades and distribution of open space

should be derived from the climate of the region rather than pre-set prototypes of that particular building typology.

iv.

Material selection for a particular street façade should depend

on the purpose to be achieved rather than directly applying the found solutions in some other part of the world.

For example, glass is used in western countries for its properties to retain heat, it economic feasibility, ease of handling, easy installation and light weight feature. This is blindly copied in developing country like India as the only solution for the above stated requirement of a high-rise façade; whereas glass is climatically unsuitable material for India. Thus through these guidelines the author urges to find an area

129

appropriate solution for the said requirements. This thus will form unique identities local to every region or city.

• Cultural

i.

As mentioned above, use of local masons and artisans pro-

motes the local art, as well as propagates the culture of the region.

ii.

A mixed use cross-section throughout the street invites inter-

action amongst people from different backgrounds thus making the city culturally vibrant.

iii.

Design of appropriate public spaces and activities further

helps to achieve the above. • Socio-Economic

i.

People using the city should define the meaning of culture

and set their own cultural values in order to derive the purpose of spaces provided in a particular street network. This will help achieve a better identity for the particular space.

130

• Legibility • Geographical

i.

Connectivity and mode of connections should be obtained

from the study of its geographical terrain and the geographical extent of a region.

• Cultural

i.

Public transport should be designed well in order to encour-

age its use and create places for cultural exchange and public interaction.

• Socio-Economic

i.

Well integrated and connected public transports which can

be used by any user group also help bring down the differences between social groups in a society.

ii.

This can also bring economic benefits to both the users as

well as administration groups of cities.

131

•

Safety and Comfort

• Geographical

i.

Land topography should be analyzed well in order to avoid

unsafe and uncomfortable pockets.

• Cultural

i.

A city culturally vibrant and active all around the clock makes

it safer thus creating a positive impact on users mind.

• Socio-Economic

i.

Public engaging planning eliminates unwanted pockets as it is

based on the user’s experience.

•

Blue and green Network

• Geographical

i.

Planning should be oriented around the natural elements of

the region in order to compliment them and bring a positive identity to the user rather than exploiting it and dis-respecting naturally existing elements.

132

• Cultural

i.

Natural elements in a region form a huge component of the

culture and lifestyle of the user group thus should be incorporated with changing times. • Socio-Economic

i.

Natural elements often tend to form a first impression of any

city thus maintaining and enhancing them will further improve the identity for different users.

133

5.2 Design demonstration The conclusions (analysis frame structure and design guidelines) derived above are tested and demonstrated on the city of Pune in India. Parts from the city’s urban fabric are selected, as urban design is executed in bits and parts and not for the entire city.

The city of Pune is chosen out of personal choice as it being author’s hometown.

134

Site location - Pune, Maharashtra, India.

India

Maharashtra

fig 5.1

City of Pune

fig 5.2

135

fig 5.3

Pune – as a city

Pune is a city in the state of Maharashtra in India. Recently government of

India has proposed an idea of 100 smart cities across the country in which Pune is one of the cities considered to be developed into a smart city. Owing to which a number of issues are highlighted in the city and various proposals of solutions are offered.

As a conclusion to this paper, the frame structure is tested on the city of

Pune, to address the issues using vernacular urbanism as a proposed solution for place identity. The vernacular factors of the city will be studied in transition over period of time, and their impact on city’s urban fabric, thus suggesting the possible solutions for enhancing the image of the city.

Pune since the history is known for its hillocks, educational institutes,

active public and social life along the streets and arts (specifically theatrical art form). Due to the rapid development and globalization the city is losing its essence and character. The character of the city, their transition and loss, and issues related to evolution are discussed in depth further.

136

Peths of Pune - Old City

fig 5.4

137

Suburbs - Current Scenario

fig 5.5

Peths of Pune - Old City

Suburbs - Current Scenario

Geographical features 1. Climate

1. Climate

• City of Pune which experi-

enced a maximum temperature of 25 degree Celsius till a decade ago. It was densely surrounded with forests making it a place away from chaotic city.

fig 5.6

• Now suffering with tempera-

tures as high as 42 degree Celsius this year. The identity of a cool place where many visitors from outskirts visited for leisure is lost somewhere in the global phenomena of climate change.

2. Topography

2. Topography

• Pune sits on a rocky terrain,

• Unfortunately these natural

with eleven major hills forming the

features are being exploited due to

topography of the city. They form the encroachment of the sprawl and exlungs of the city filtering the polluted cessive material extraction for conair.

struction from the hills. Many of the

existing hills are under danger due to increasing threats on their existence.

fig 5.7

138

• Pune city sits on the banks of

• The river banks are polluted

two rivers namely, Mula and Mutha,

with broken and ill-maintained drain-

flowing towards the north-east. Form- age lines running through their banks.

fig 5.8

ing an interesting public place for the

Due to which the built forms put up

residents to socialize, and exchange

their backs to a possible good view.

culture, thoughts and experiences.

3.

Material Availability

3.

Material Availability

• Loacally available material be- • As mentioned above the hills ing stone is used for all the construc- of pune have been over-exploited for tions as it also helps regulate tempera- its material and used illegally and for fig 5.9

tures inside of a structure.

fig 5.10

139

ethically wrong purposes

Cultural factors 1.

Historical Background

History of the city exists only in the museums and its physical presence

is missing in the current generation influenced by modernization. The virtual understanding of the word modernization has misled many a generations into fig 5.13

directions away from their roots. Whereas the basic principles from the past form an apt base for the growth of future.

fig 5.11

Peths of Pune - Old City

Suburbs - Current Scenario

Institutes played an important

role then and this area is established

The importance of institutes is

lost, as the quality of education is de-

with a number of important institu- teriorating and huge percentage has tional structures, giving the city it’s

been established only for the purpose

name of ‘Oxford of East’.

of business. The quality of educational

Education was a symbol of liberation

environment provided is lost in many

and strength.

upcoming institutes thus the whole purpose of education as a liberator has dropped down to money-making.

fig 5.12

140

2.

Traditional Customs and Beliefs

2.

Traditional Customs and Beliefs

The tradition of walking through

Traditional customs like buy-

a market, meeting people, socializing

ing fresh groceries from the local

and supporting economy of the farm- farm-markets, where goods are sold fig 5.13

ers are a few advantages observed in

directly by the farmers is lost to the

this traditional belief. This practice has

world of supermarkets and supermalls.

a very positive impact from the past.

3.

Daily Lifestyle

3.

A person’s life in the past nev-

Daily Lifestyle Due to development of districts

er exceeded beyond the close periph- based on it’s occupation and function, ery of an individual’s house. This was

boundaries have increased making it

possible only because there was no

difficult to reach every need within

purpose for a person to go beyond that

peripheral vicinity.

periphery. Every basic requirement for living was easily accessible within walking distance.

141

Socio-Economic Impact 1.

Social Structure

Conversion of social living and cosmopolitan housing to formation of

gated housing is increasing with alarming rates. With a mix of land use and building use, a mix of social and religious sector is also equally important. The formation of introvert gated communities with high walls is creating blank voids in the skyline and image of the city. This further disintegrates the oneness of a city to these multiple groups behind tall compound walls. This along with, creating social discrimination in society also affects the activeness of the street and its faรงade, safety of the citizens and security of the community.

2.

Economic Growth

The small scale industries operated by the communities into making local

goods are directly impacted by modernization. Their business is directly affected by the shift of people from local to global. Areas like kumbharwada (potters community) and tambeali (community making copper vessel) are the traditional artists local to the city of Pune, which are directly affected by the

142

conventional substitutes to their goods in market. This in turn is causing the upcoming generations to leave their local ancestral practice and consider other modes of occupations. This leads to loss of art and identity of the community thus creating voids in the social structure due to shift of economy.

fig 5.14

The new developments created in the outer regions of the city, are the

major factors impacting place identity, social identity of the community staying there and an individual’s identity, due to creation of insensitive low costing built structures. This further creates a social divide amongst the people based on their economy, directly affecting the identity of the area.

3.

Political Influence

In developing countries like India, politics is present at every stage of

administration and development. It becomes highly difficult to set controls over corruption from minor to major level involved in development. This does not have a direct impact on identity, but leads to uncontrolled development of a city, which in turn can lead to formation of structures or areas with negative identity.

143

Design Intervention

The above collected data creates the purpose (Why) of development and

urban design. Under this chapter few issues will be demonstrated further in order to derive a functional role (How) corresponding to the above discussed purpose and then brief examples of it’s physical appearance (What)1.

1

From the theory of golden circle discussed in Chapter 3.

144

Purpose 1. Loss of identity due to ill-maintained natural resources. Enriching the riverfront along the Mula-Mutha River.

How can it be achieved – reinforcing the river with functional and aes-

thetical features thus making it usable and accessible to the local citizens. Due fig 5.15

to high maintenance cost of the public spaces along river, regeneration projects have often failed. Using vernacular as a solution for creating engaging environment can help create positive identity.

What can be done

• Vernacular feature used – elements of street furniture like ghats, kattas

and informal theatre stages. fig 5.16

fig 5.17

145

fig 5.18

Clearing up of the river and cre-

ating public activities promoting social and culture life of people of Pune, thus making the development along the riverfront more liveable as well as creating recreational areas along the river.

Also the construction proposed

along the riverfront is denoted in the fig 5.19

adjoining figure.

146

Purpose 2. Re-introducing a variety of building uses in order to create self-sufficient blocks and induce life into community, thus breaking through the social discrimination.

How can it be achieved – due to increase of communalism throughout

the city of Pune, the areas in pune can be divided into two, as over-used and under-used. Due to barrier in communities and formation of gated communities the void is created on city’s canvas. This issue can be attended by providing a mix of all uses in every block thus creating replicas of super-block, thus activating every part of the city.

What can be done

• Vernacular feature used – the concept of ‘upar makkan, niche dukan’

(house on upper floors and shops on ground floors).

147

A mixed use land use is proposed in order to break the social barriers amongst the communities and making city

more walkable and accessible, thus reducing usage of motorized vehicles. Daily activities like grocery shops, local seasonal shops, super market, pharmacy, and similar can be proposed on the ground floor, with residence on the top floor.

This is derived from the typical housing style from history of Pune where the family stays upstairs and their shop is on the ground floor of the same building thus activating the adjoining area around the clock.

These area can also accommodate social elements of living like typical meeting places accompanied with snacks

from local hawkers or stalls, thus rejuvenating the area with multiple layers of diverse activities.

fig 5.

fig 5.20

148

Purpose 3. Re-imagining the identity of the social groups living along the outer edges of the city.

How can it be achieved – students, working class and low income group

people form the majority amongst the people living away from the main city fig 5.21

centre. Due to high real estate rates these social groups compromise with their living quality and the environment around them. Thus economically cheap solutions from vernacular can be used in order to create a better living environment for everyone.

fig 5.22

What can be done

• Vernacular feature used – Concepts of courtyards in context with high

land price is used. Thus introducing feature from vernacular in amalgamation with modernized context.

fig 5.23

149

fig 5.24

Courtyards of the vernacular

‘wadas’ form a geographical element as well as they are an integral part of the social life of family living in the house and the surrounding known people to the family from the community.

Due to increased price of land this element isn’t feasible, thus using this element for a communities interaction by forming courtyard blocks which are very uncommon in Pune.

fig 5.25

150

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