Preliminary Studies -

‘Townscape Appraisal’

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Townscape Appraisal is our method for evaluating the visual and aesthetic qualities of a town or urban area. Through this process, we assess the character, identity, and distinctiveness of the place, identifying its strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

In our preliminary studies, we focus on nine key indicators:

Historical and Urban Morphology – We examine how the area has evolved historically and analyze its physical layout.
Urban Structure – We analyze the arrangement of spaces, streets, and buildings to understand the town's framework.
Responsive Environment – We explore how the environment responds to human activities and needs.
Physical Evaluation – We assess the physical condition of the buildings, infrastructure, and overall site.
Place – We identify the essence of the location, focusing on its atmosphere and unique identity.
Content – We evaluate the key elements that define the town, such as landmarks and other significant features.
Landscape Character – We study both the natural and man-made elements that shape the area’s landscape.
Behavioral Survey – We observe how people interact with and use the space in their daily lives.
S.W.O.T. Analysis (Micro) – We conduct a detailed analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats within the area.
Our appraisal combines macro-scale site analysis, which gives us a broad understanding of the context, with micro-scale assessments of specific areas. This thorough documentation equips us with a solid understanding of the site we will be working on throughout the semester.

Through this study, we aim to develop a deep insight into the townscape and its potential for improvement.