Urban Design and Development

Unit code: NBD3200 | Study level: Undergraduate
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Footscray Park
N/A
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, students are introduced to the concept and meaning of urban design, and the diverse challenges cities are faced in the era of rapid urbanisation. Students will engage in independent and collaborative analysis of urban spaces using different methods and techniques to inform conceptual design ideas and develop a deep understanding of the fundamentals of the project briefing and design process through a design-based project. Throughout the design process, students will review and deepen their existing knowledge of sustainable communities, liveable neighbourhoods, public spaces, environmental planning and the movement of pedestrians and traffic in cities. In this unit students will analyse existing urban spaces and propose conceptual designs for the master plan. The final design project will be presented and communicated through posters, power points, and physical models.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse a wide range of urban spaces using different methods and techniques;
  2. Propose creative strategies to analyse urban spaces and communicate effectively with a range of skilled professionals, including architects, builders and engineers;
  3. Adapt knowledge and skills to design for liveable neighbourhoods and sustainable communities; and
  4. Design and develop an urban conceptual master plan demonstrating understanding of the existing design issues.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 20%
Analysis of urban space including identification of key challenges and opportunities, and formulation of initial conceptual solutions (Group)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
In-class test on understanding urban design principles, sustainability considerations, and analytical methods used in urban planning (Individual)
Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 20%
Portfolio showcasing personal engagement with the unit content, featuring sketches, conceptual drawings, and analyses of urban design principles (Ind)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 40%
Portfolio, poster presentation and physical model (Group)

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

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