intanjudin nurafifah assessment2 mand

7/29/2019 Intanjudin NurAfifah Assessment2 Mand

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ASSESSMENT ITEM COVER SHEET

Student Name: NUR AFIFAH ________________________Last name (USE BLOCK LETTERS) First Name

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Campus of Study: CALLAGHAN ____________________________________________________________

Assessment Item Title: ASSIGNMENT 2 Research Dissertation ______________________________________

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A R B E 4 1 2 1bResearch in the built environment B

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INTANJUDIN
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URBAN DESIGN DIMENSIONS AND ITS INFLUENCE TO THE VITALITY OF PUBLIC

SPACES

CASE STUDY: FEDERATION SQUARE MELBOURNE

Thesis By

Nur Afifah Intanjudin

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements

For the Degree of

MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE

University of Newcastle


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Contents

List of Figures and Tables i

Abstract iii

1.0Chapter One: Introduction1.1Background to the research 1

1.2Research Question, Research Aim(s) and Research Objectives 1

1.2.1 Research question 11.2.2 Research aims 11.2.3 Research objectives 2

1.3 Research Scope 2

1.4 Significant/Justification of Research 2

1.5 Description of the contents of subsequent chapters 3

2.0 Chapter Two: Literature Review

2.1 Introduction 4

2.2 Public spaces 4

2.3 Character shift of public spaces 5

2.4 The vitality of public spaces 5

2.5 Urban Design Dimensions 6

2.5.1 The morphological dimension 8

2.5.2 The perceptual dimension 82.5.3 The social dimension 9

2.5.4 The visual dimension 9

2.5.5 The functional dimension 10

2.5.6 The temporal dimension 10

2.6 Conclusion 11

3.0 Chapter Three: Research Method

3.1 Introduction 12

3.2 Research Subjects 12

3.4 Application of Methodology 12

3.4.1 Strategy 12

3.4.2 Case study 12

3.4.3 Data collection methods 13

The morphological Dimension 15

The perceptual Dimension 16

The visual Dimension 16

The social Dimension 16

The functional Dimension 16

The temporal Dimension 16

3.5 Limitations 17


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3.6 Evaluation 17

3.7 Project timeline 18

4.0 Chapter Four: Discussion4.1 Introduction 19

4.2 Overview of Melbourne city planning 19

4.3 The urban design dimension

4.3.1 Morphological dimension 20

Street pattern 20

Street block and plot pattern 20

Building structures 21

4.3.2 Perceptual and visual dimension 21

The visual dimensionUrban space 21

Urban architecture 23

Facade 23

Hard and soft landscaping 25

The perceptual dimension 25

4.3.3 Social and functional dimension 27

The functional dimension 27

The social dimension 28

Safety and security 28

Accessibility 29Mix building use 30

4.3.4 Temporal dimension 30

24-hour cycle 30

Weekly cycle 30

Monthly cycle 31

Yearly cycle 31

4.4 Stationary Activities in Federation Square 31

4.5 Conclusion 32

5.0 Chapter Five: Conclusion 33

Appendix 34

References 35


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NUR AFIFAH INTANJUDIN|3124004

i

List of figures and tables

Table 1: Summary of the urban design dimension framework

Table 2: Stationary activities study at Federation Square

Figure 1: conceptualisation of the relationship of vitality of public spaces and the urban design

Figure 2: Diagram of research strategy in answering the research question

Figure 3: Boundary of the study indicated in orange

Figure 4: Melbourne city map 1855 (source: State Library of Victoria)

Figure 5: Diagram of Melbourne street pattern

Figure 6: current street pattern overlay with 1855 map

Figure 7: Diagram of Melbourne building blocks

Figure 8: Diagram of Melbourne existing city block and Federation building blocks

Figure 9: diagram of principal of figure-ground reversal

Figure 10: Diagram illustrating convexity

Figure 11: Diagram illustrating spatial containment

Figure 12: Figure-ground reversal diagram of Federation Square

Figure 13: Formal and informal spaces

Figure 14: Diagrams illustrating approaches in building integration

Figure 15: Juxtaposition of Federation Square to the historical context

Figure 16: Federation Square elevation

Figure 17: locations of Federal poems throughout the square

Figure 18: Soft landscaping around Federation Square

Figure 19: Aerial view of the public plaza

Figure 20: Indication of paths, edges, landmarks and nodes

Figure 21: Photograph of St. Pauls Cathedral

Figure 22: Photograph of Flinders Street Station


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ii

Figure 23: Photograph of Forum Theatre on Flinders Street

Figure 24: Diagram illustrating building mass and wind environment

Figure 25: Amount of seating in Federation Square

Figure 26: Photograph of people using the plaza informally

Figure 27: Facade grade study

Figure 28: Accessibility in Federation Square

Figure 29: Building use study

Figure 30: Stationary activities study around Melbourne


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Abstract

This research aims to identify key principles in urban design that are themost influence to vitality of public spaces. Public spaces are part of a

complex network in urban design. Within this complexity there lies a

primitive need for human to have a common ground in which to interact

and associate. Within this paper, the term vitality is defined as the

amount of people that populates the space at any one time. The vitality of

public spaces will then be interconnected with the urban structure of the

city and though this paper, key principles of urban design that contribute to

vitality of public spaces will be identified. In order to give a better

understanding of the phenomena, a case study will become the real-life

context of this research.

In order to establish a guideline on assessing urban structure, Matthew

Carmonas framework of urban design dimensions are referred to as a

driving force of this research. The framework stated that there are six

important design dimension that needs to be considered; morphological

dimension, perceptual dimension, social dimension, visual dimension,

functional dimension and temporal dimension.

This framework will be used to observe and analyse urban structure of the

chosen case study, Federation Square, Melbourne. Aerial, sectional,

photographic and literature studies of Federation Square will be

established to support the urban design dimensions. Observations of theurban structure will then be analysed in relation to the vitality of public

space.

This study will be an analysis and summary of urban structure in relation to

the case study. The most influential urban design dimensions in relation to

the vitality of public space will then be identified. By identifying the key

principle, it is hoped that the knowledge will become a paramount part of

designing public spaces within an urban structure. It is also acknowledged

that all the urban design dimensions work together as a whole in creating a

vibrant city, but the identified key principles are focused in relation to

Federation Square, Melbourne.

The nature of cities that ultimately begin with the laying out of plots, street

patterns, buildings and land use (morphological dimension) will then give

rise to other elements of urban design. Hence, it is concluded that

morphological dimension of urban design is the most influential element

towards the vitality of public space.


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Chapter One: Introduction

1.1Background to the Research

Jane Jacobs in her study The Death and Life of Great American Cities has

identified four principles that maintain the vitality of cities, which are mixed

primary uses, small blocks, mixture of old and new buildings and the

concentration of people. She synthesized the principles through

participant-observation in her own neighbourhood, New York City. Her

study is an attack (1961, p.19) on the modernist urban design principles

which were popular during that time.

On the other hand, the book Public Places Urban Spaces: The Dimensions

of Urban Design (Carmona, Heath, Oc & Tiesdell, 2003). is a synthesis of

the major urban design theories, including Jacobs principles. Through thesynthesis, they have identified six dimensions into which the theories fall. It

is stated that the separation is for the purpose of clarity in exposition and

analysis only and urban design is ultimately a rounded activity of all the

dimensions (Carmona, et al., 2003, p.vii).

This study will take the idea of using the dimensions1

of urban design into a

real-life context of Federation Square, to see if this case study does comply

with the dimensions and how it contributes to the vitality of the public

space. The core of this study will be to identify which key urban design

dimensions have most impact to the vitality of the case study public space.

1.2Research Question, Research Aim(s) and Research Objectives1.2.1 Research Question

Which urban design dimension has the most influence tothe vitality of public space?

1.2.2 Research Aim(s)

To examine the general urban structure of Melbourne CBDusing the urban design dimension framework at a macro

level

To examine the design of Federation Square using theurban design dimension framework at a micro level

To relate the overall urban structure of Melbourne toFederation Square Plaza

1The urban design dimensions are used because the nature of the framework is an

overall synthesis of major urban design theorists. This ensures the clarity ofunderstanding the theories in relation to the urban structure in a systematic

manner.


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To investigate the connection between considerations inurban design to the vitality of public spaces

1.2.3 Research Objectives

The objective of this research was to better understand therelationship between the vitality of public spaces and urban

design. This research also seeks to understand the

dimensions in urban design in order to give clarity in

explaining the relationship.

1.3 Research Scope

The scope of this research will be limited to Federation Square, particularly

the public plaza and also the Melbourne CBD. This paper will also look at

understanding the importance of public spaces as part of society living and

also as a significant part of urban structure. Through this understanding,

the urban design framework will be reviewed and used to explain the

chosen case study.

1.4 Significant/Justification of Research

Rationale

Federation Square is the first true civic square that the city of Melbourne

ever had since the beginning of its city planning. The significance of this

makes Federation Square an interesting case study for this particular

research which relates urban design and the vitality of public space.

A ten year target was made by the City of Melbourne in order to attract

more people to the city. The duration of these changes took place from

1994 to 2004 and within ten years, notable changes have been made to the

public realm of Melbourne. These changes have been documented into a

report commissioned to Jan Gehl Architects. It would be an interesting

study to apply Carmonas urban design dimension framework to the

changes that have been made to the city, particularly the addition ofFederation Square. The availability of comprehensive before and after

report from Jan Gehl Architects would help to simplify the investigation.

The urban design dimension which has the most influence on the vitality of

public space will then be identified through this investigation.

Expected outcome

The expected outcome of this study will be an analysis and summary of the

urban configuration of the case studies in relation to the chosen public

spaces. This paper will help future designers in understanding how the

surrounding environment of the cities will affect the use of public spaces.


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These factors will then be taken into considerations when creating a public

space in an existing urban context.

1.5 Description of the contents of subsequent chapters

Chapter 2: Literature review

This chapter acts as guide for the paper to develop themes for discussion.

Literature on significance of public space and urban design will be

reviewed. The term vitality is also defined in this chapter. Within this

chapter, introduction to urban design dimension and detailed explanation

of each dimension through supporting literature is also established.

Chapter 3: Research design and method

This chapter outlines the approach of this research. Detailed review on the

research methods and the application of the method to the study is also

explained within this chapter. Procedure of evaluating each of the

dimensions is also outlined.

Chapter 4: Discussion

This chapter is an observation and analysis of the Federation Square using

the framework stated in the previous chapter. A better understanding onthe structure of the city planning and Federation Square design and how it

influences people to use the space is the central theme of this chapter.

Chapter 5: Conclusion

The purpose of this final chapter is to give a conclusive synthesis of the

discussion from previous chapter.


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Chapter Two: Literature Review

2.1 Introduction

The chapter provides an understanding of the nature of public spaces and

how it works within the urban structure of a city. Within this literature

review, the term vitality will be clarified to establish a mutual

understanding of the term. An introduction to Carmonas urban design

framework and a description of each dimensions are also explained.

2.2 Public spaces

Public spaces could be defined as physical spaces that, in the ideal, areopen to all people for the exercise of their rights (Childs, 2004, p.22).

Hence, public spaces are a part of the society itself where it is the stage

where the drama of communal life unfolds (Carr, Francis, Rivlin & Stone

1992, p.3). In other words, public spaces could be interpreted as domains

which are accessible for everyone in a society to congregate giving a

platform for interaction between people of diverse social background.

Regardless of the social and spatial composition of the urban setting, public

spaces have always played a crucial role in everyday life. These spaces have

been regarded as the connective tissue of a city, providing access to and

connections between all the functions of the city (Gehl, Gemzoe, Kirknaes& Sondergaard, 2006, p. 12).

Public spaces have also been regarded as the key to urban renewal

strategies which are apparent in most urban design approaches (Hajer &

Reijndorp, 2001). This means that the public spaces are one of the

important factors that contribute to the rejuvenation of an urban structure.

For example, the Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak, Malaysia, which was in a

state of deterioration because of the development of road network, air

transportation and the changes in shipping technology during 1960s to

1970s. Some of the aims of this rejuvenation were to create visual linkage

between the city and the waterfront, and also to preserve of historicelements.

The metamorphosis of the water front has acted as

catalyst for the redevelopment of adjacent areas. Land

values in the neighbourhood of the riverfront have

increased (Lang, 2005, p.102)

Therefore, it could be concluded that public spaces are vital in order for

continuity of urban life.

The emphasis on public spaces differs between cultures and location (Carr,Francis, Rivlin & Stone, 1992, p. 3). As an example, take Australia Square.


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The main factor that contributes to the use of the ground plane is because

of the sun access to the open space. The Sydney Development plan also

regulated that any new development should not overshadow Australia

Square. On the other hand, in Malaysia, open public spaces needs to have

shading and protection from the sun to be able to function. Different

location and environmental factors affect the shaping of public spaces.

Climate is clearly one of the prime factors in culture,

and therefore, the built form (Beng, T. H., 1994, p. 13)

Hence, culture is also related to the environmental factors.

2.3 Character shift of public spaces

It is understood that the formation of public spaces is at least by two

different processes (Carr, et al., 1992, p. 50). One is being a naturaldevelopment through appropriation, by repeated use in a particular way,

or by the concentration of people because of an attraction (Carr, et al.,

1992). This appropriation can happen anywhere, such as stairs or street

corners or even alleyways. On the other hand, the planned public places

emerge through urban design.

Throughout history, the use of public spaces is important in the daily

existence of society, but the role and character of the public realm has

changed today. During the 1800s the public realm was a necessary part of

daily life. The public realm was used mainly for work-related activities. This

means, the public realm will be populated regardless of quality, because itwas a work-related space, a necessity in everyday existence. Today, the

public realm has gone through a shift where it is no longer a necessity for

everyday life, where the activities are optional, and more recreational. This

is as a result of a shift in the work-related environment from the public

realm into private spaces, i.e., buildings (Gehl, Gemzoe, Kirknaes &

Sondergaard, 2006, p. 12).

Considering the statements above, it could be synthesized that the public

realm of a city structure has now become an optional space for the society.

A series of factors relating to the desirability of public space has to be taken

into consideration in order to encourage people to use it. Therefore,

providing good quality public spaces are even more compelling today than

back in the 1800s because society has a choice to be a part of the city

space or otherwise.

2.4 The vitality of public spaces

A simple definition of vitality from the Oxford dictionary is the state of

being strong and active. Vitality in terms of urban spaces could also be

described as:


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It [vitality] refers to the numbers of people in and

around the street (pedestrian flows) across different

times of the day and night, the uptake of facilities, the

number of cultural events and celebrations over the

year, the presence of an active street life, and generally

the extent to which a place feels alive or lively.(Montgomery, 2008, p. 271)

The excerpt above refers to vitality in the wider urban context, which

includes streets and, buildings as well as public spaces. It could be

concluded from Montgomerys urban vitality concept that vitality refers to

the density level or liveliness of the city space. This liveliness is a result of

several influences such as the provision of facilities, events occurring in the

area, activities being held, the desirability as well as the mixed-use nature

of the spaces. Applying this concept to the research topic at hand, the

vitality of public spaces could be described as the amount of people that

populates the space and the liveliness of the spaces at any particular time.

2.5 Urban Design Dimensions

There are many ways in which an urban setting can be analysed such as

visual, perceptual, or social perspectives and so forth. For example, Krier

(1979), defined that urban space is all types of space between buildings

and this space will consciously be perceived as urban space when there is

clear legibility of its geometrical characteristics and aesthetic qualities.

Through this definition, Kriers concept of urban setting leans more towardsphysical structure.

On the other hand, Lynchs (1960) approach is by analysing the physical

environment to obtain the perceptual structure of an urban space. He

defined several physical elements that constitute the legibility and

imageability of a city. Hence, Lynchs theory of urban structure is based on

the societys mental image of their city.

Another perspective focuses on the human dimensions in creating public

spaces (Carr, et al., 1992, p. 85). The human dimensions are needs, rights

and meaning. This dimension focuses on the interaction of peoples and

places and how this affects the ways settings function.

In order to create a comprehensive understanding of the urban structure, it

would be a practical approach to combine all the areas in analysing urban

structure into a unified framework. Carmona had organised and analysed

information on urban design and combined the synthesis into an

interconnected framework (Carmonas urban design dimension framework

will be referred to the framework).


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Hawkes (2003) commented that the intention of Carmona is to

collect and organize an enormous volume of

information, of history, theory and practice, that

defines, describes, and informs the nature andprocesses that currently constitute the field of urban

design (p.34)

He agreed that theis theory is applied effectively, and does demonstrate

the inherent complexity of the material with clarity (p.34). He also

acknowledge that Carmona et al.s work is objective, descriptive and

analytical, making it a useful tool for practitioners. Although Carmonaet

al.s theory is acceptable, Hawkes also stated that there are more

dimensions that defy the calm logic and systemization of this approach. He

was referring to deeper and abstract insights of the city such as the

dimensions of life (p.35).

As discussed above, the dimensions which will become the main framework

of this study is adequately practical to understand a city structure with

clarity. Although it is stated that there are other dimension of an urban

setting, this study has already outlined their limitations.

The dimension of urban design could be categorized into six distinct

elements, which are morphological, perceptual, social, visual, functional

and temporal (Carmona et al. , 2003, p. vii). These dimensions (figure 1.)

will help in placing the case studies into an urban context and

understanding how the dimensions have an effect on the vitality of thepublic spaces.

The fast paced urbanizing of cities requires that clear guideline is needed to

ensure the consistency of the design value. Hence, public spaces within an

urban setting also requires careful analysis in order for us to design public

spaces that are in societal solidarity rather than being fragmented as a

result of privatisation of activities.


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2.5.1 The morphological dimension

Morphology could bluntly be translated as the study of the forms of things,

in particular. Applying this to urban design, the morphology dimension is a

study of the form and shape of settlements (Carmona, et al., 2003, p. 61).

Within this dimension, further divisions of urban physical form are

established.

One example of the morphological dimension that Jacobs (1992)

mentioned in her book is the importance of small blocks in a city. The logic

in having small blocks is that there will be more opportunities for street

intersections, creating a more permeable city (Jacobs, 1992, p. 178). Hence,

the city is more accessible for exploration by people, leading to the

activation of public spaces.

It can then be concluded that the shape and form of the city could

indirectly influence how people move and behave towards their

environment. In turn, this will affect the use of spaces throughout theurban setting.

2.5.2 The perceptual dimension

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, perceptual is defined as the

process of becoming aware of physical objects, phenomena, etc., through

the senses. The perceptual dimensions in urban design, on the other hand,

embraces the images, experiences and meanings that people attach to the

built environment (Punter & Carmona, 1997, p. 151). In his book, Carmona

et al. stated that (Carmona et al., 2003, p. 87), the perceptual dimension of

urban design explores how people perceive environments and experienceplaces and there are two main parts which is the environmental

Figure 1: conceptualisation of the relationship of vitality of public spaces and

the urban design


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perception and the construction of place. Lynch (1960) stated that every

citizen has had long associations with some part of his city, and his image is

soaked in memories and meanings (p. 1). Lynch has outlined five aspects of

mental image of a city structure which are paths, edges, nodes, districts

and landmarks.

Hence, the perceptual dimension concerns a more subjective element of

urban design, which is the interpretation of the urban space in the mind of

the society populating it. The perceptual dimension in this case could be

defined as how these public spaces represent itself as a symbol or an image

to the city and its people by ways of legibility and identity.

Lynch (1960) had defined legibility as being the ease with which its [the

city] parts can be recognized and can be organized into coherent pattern

(p.2). Hence, a legible city will have districts or landmarks or pathways

which are easily identifiable to the society.

2.5.3 The social dimension

The word social is defined as of life or a way of living: characterized by

association in groups or communities (Oxford English Dictionary).

Accordingly, the aspect of social dimension in urban design is in regard to

the relationship of the space and the social/urban experience (Carmona et

al., 2007, p.141). Carmona et al. also stated that the physical environment

has a determining influence on human behaviour. Hence, urban design can

be viewed as a tool for manipulating the outcome of human behaviour

within its context. This indicates that an urban space will need to fulfil basichuman needs to increase the probability of people using it.

Jacobs discussed the aspect of mixed-use activities. She agreed that a

successful city streets, there must be a constant traffic of people at

different times of the day. In order to achieve this, the district must have a

mix of primary functions to attract people using the public realm of the city

in different schedules and purposes (Jacobs, 1992, p. 152).

Referring to the excerpt above, it is evident that by designing an

environment with varying activities will also ensure the vitality of the area.

This proves how design of the city influences the patterns of human

activities.

2.5.4 The visual dimension

Adversely, the visual dimension is purely focused on the aesthetic of the

space. Ultimately, a city is perceived by the faculty of sight, for it is almost

entirely through vision that the environment is apprehended (Cullen, 1995,

p. 8). The visual dimension can be divided into a few categories which are

bulk, appearance, scale, massing, style, development size and amenity

(Carmona et al., 2003, p.60).


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Cullen (1996) talked about the visual aspect of the city in terms of serial

vision. He stated that the language between buildings and the surrounding

is an art of relationship itself just as a singular building is appreciated as an

art of architecture. Therefore, a city can be enjoyed visually when all the

elements such as nature, buildings, traffic and so on are weaved together

in such a way that drama is released. The visual experience of a city can beconsidered as serial vision as a result of human movement. Hence, a

visually successful city will have a dynamic tapestry of elements that can

invoke the sense of curiosity and promotes people to explore the city

further.

2.5.5 The functional dimension

The functional dimension in urban design involves how places work and

how designers can make better places. A functional space will be able to

serve the need of the users (Carmona et al., 2003, p. 165). Again quoting

Carmona et al, from his book, the five primary needs people seek: comfort,relaxation, passive engagement with environment, active engagement with

environment and discovery.

There are two segments of the functional dimension; one is social usage

which involves the relationship between people and the functioning of the

environment, secondly is the visual tradition which involves technical

criteria such as traffic flow, access and circulation (Carmona et al., 2007,

p.165).

In conclusion, the functional dimension relates to the design considerations

that have been implemented to create an environment which is conduciveto the everyday life of society. This could be in the form of infrastructure,

environmental considerations, safety measures and so forth.

2.5.6 The temporal dimension

Lastly, the urban design also concerns itself with dimension of time. Time in

its essence is the continued progress of existence and will continue moving

forward. In his book, Carmona et al. stated that urban design exists not only

in three-dimensional space but also with time as the fourth dimension.

The temporal dimension consists of three key aspects which are the time

cycle, continuity and stability as well as change (Carmona et al., 2003, p.

193).The vitality of public spaces should also withstand the test of time. In

order to achieve this, the spaces have to be flexible and able to

accommodate the changing needs of society.


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An example ofthe frameworks application

The use of Carmona et al.s framework is evident in the Your Development

organization. This is a collaboration between CSIRO Division of Sustainable

Ecosystems and the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage andthe Arts (DEWHA) if the Australian Government. The organization aims to

reduce the dependence on fossil fuel within a neighbourhood via

sustainable urban development. One of the subtopics in the sustainable

development plan is the creation of Successful Public Spaces. The

framework in which to create successful public spaces is referred to in

Carmona et al.s urban design dimensions. The key principles of public

spaces are outlined according to New Zealands Urban Design Protocol

(2005) 7Cs concept which are context, character, choice, connections,

creativity, custodianship and collaboration. Carmona et al.s framework is

used to relate with the principles. Each of the dimensions is viewed in an

environmental perspective of energy consumption. As an example; themorphological dimension such as settlement pattern has a large impact on

energy consumption (Daffara, 2008).

2.6 Conclusion

This literature review has provided sufficient evidence that successful

public space correlate with considerations in urban design because public

space is a major part of societys life. According to the literature reviews, it

is apparent that urban design can be broken down into main themes, whichmade it easier to understand s structure of the city. These themes can also

be applied in a macro or micro level, to a whole city, or a particular building

block. However, very little study has actually applied the framework to an

actual case study, hence it is an opportunity for this research paper to

utilise it in a case study.


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Chapter Three: Research Method

3.1 Introduction

This chapter describes the research subjects, methods in which the studywill be conducted and the application of the methods to the research

subject. General strategy of data collection of each urban dimension,

limitations of the study and project timeline is also outlined.

3.2 Research Subjects

This paper will focus on studying Federation Square, particularly the public

plaza in context with city planning of Melbourne. Detailed observation will

mainly be done on Federation Square and the areas immediately

surrounding it. The core theme of this research will be based on Carmona

et al.s urban design dimension. Hence, plans, photographs and drawings of

the case study will be analysed with reference to the urban design

framework and literature.

3.4 Application of Methodology

In addressing the question of how urban structure contributes to the

vitality of public spaces, qualitative research method will be used to

conduct the data collection of this study. The research question seeks to

identify the key urban design dimensions that contribute most to the

vitality of public spaces.

3.4.1 Strategy

The main qualitative strategy of this study will be to use a case study. As

defined by Groat and Wang (2002), astudy is an empirical inquiry that

investigates a phenomenon or setting. Hence, the research question calls

for a real-life context understanding of urban structure in relation to the

use of public spaces. By placing the question into a real context, a deeper

understanding of urban structure and how people are populating it can be

better realized.

3.4.2 Case study

The city of Melbourne has lacked a real public square since the beginning

of its city planning. The need for a civic square for Melbourne has been a

topic of discussion since the 1850s:

...anonymous critic of 1850 pointed out in criticising

the lack of an open square one of the first

requirements of a town... (Brown-May & Day, 2003,

p.1)


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Numerous proposals to design a solution for a proper civic square for

Melbourne went back as early as 1920s and stretched to 1996 when a

competition design brief for Federation Square was established (Brown-

May & Day, 2003, p.22). Lab Architecture studio won the competition,

hence the beginning of the present day Federation Square.

It could be understood that Federation Square is ultimately the answer to

the long search for a civic square for Melbourne, making it historically

significant. Therefore, Federation Square would make an interesting case

study in which to apply the urban design dimension framework and then

analyse it.

3.4.3 Data collection methods

Yin (2003), had identified six commonly used sources of evidence or data

collection within the case study strategy. These are documentation,archival records, interviews, direct observations, participant-observation

and physical artifacts. Of relevance to this study, two of the six method of

data collection will be used, archival records and direct observations.

In 1994, the City of Melbourne commissioned Gehl Architects to conduct an

in depth publication2

of quantity and types of activity occurring in the citys

public space and sets a ten year target for attracting more people to the

city. This publication will become an archival record3

for data collection of

this case study.

Secondly, Yin had stated that some relevant behaviours or environmental

conditions will be available for observation through field visits (2003, p.92).He had also expressed that ...observations of a neighbourhood or of an

organizational unit add new dimensions for understanding either the

context or the phenomenon being studied. In order to adapt the method

of direct observation to this study, the site visit will be purely used to

observe the architectural and urban structure value of Melbourne. Another

observation could examine the way that people are using the spaces.

Photographs from the site visit will become evidence in describing the

urban structure.

Thus, any finding or conclusion in a case study is likely to

be much more convincing and accurate if it is based onseveral different sources of information... (Yin, 2003,

p.98)

2Places for People: Melbourne 2004 has established benchmarks which allow

Melbourne to measure its progress. As a continuation of this publication, another

survey was conducted in the year 2004, analysing Melbourne city using similar

methods. Through this literal method application, the publication has been able to

establish the urban changes that occurred within the 10 years and how it affects

the number of people using the public spaces.3

According to Yin (2003,) archival records often take the form of computer filesand records. One of the examples of archival records that he stated is survey

data, such as census records or data previously collected about a site.


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From the excerpt above, Yin recommends the evaluation of data through

the triangulation of multiple sources in order to give a more valid conclusion

or argument.

As a guideline for understanding urban structure, Carmona et al. s urban

design dimensions will be the backbone of the study. The reason for relying

heavily on Carmona et al.s dimensions is because he organised and

analysed theories from respectable theorists on urban design and

combined the synthesis into an interconnected framework. Through his

framework, this study hopes to understand urban structure in an organized

manner.

In order to give depth to the framework, this study will also examine

secondary sources of the original literature from urban theorists in which

Carmona have also referred to such as Jacobs, Gehl, Krier, Lynch and so

forth4. Again, this allows for triangulation of data collected, making the

information gathered more reliable.

Another key area of triangulation that needs to be done is the case study

itself. Information on Federation Square from different sources will be

studied and summarized. The main scope of triangulation for the case study

is literature by the architects themselves as well as critiques. Newspaper

articles on the case study may also be used to get a picture of public

opinion. Self-observation is also used to analyse the case study as part of

the triangulation method.

The changes in urban structure of Melbourne that have been made within

10 years will then be cross-referenced to Carmona et al.s urban design

dimensions. By cross-referencing the changes made by City of Melbourneand Carmona et al.s dimensions, an organized view of urban structure

could be established. Then, the dimensions will be linked to the vitality of

Federation Square and the analysis of key dimension will be distinguished.

4Urban Design Reader by Matthew Carmona & Steve Tiesdell have a compilation

of essential readings of urban design texts from major urban design theorists inrelation to the design dimensions outlined by Carmona et al. The original source of

the texts will be used to ensure the validity of interpretations.


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Figure 2: Diagram of research strategy in answering the research question

Each of the design dimensions will have a specific method of datacollection:

The morphological Dimension

A plan diagram of the city will be established with reference to theNollis Map concept in order to give an understanding of city

massing and voids

A plan diagram of structure of Federation Square will also bestudied

Observation &

categorization

TYPES OF SOURCES

PRIMARY SECONDARY

Archival

records

Direct

observation

Published

literatures

Urban design dimension

(Framework)

Identification of keydimension

Case study

Analysis

Application

Photograph


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The perceptual Dimension

Aerial and photographic analysis will be done to understand theurban imagery of the case study. This will be tied in with the visual

dimension.

The visual Dimension Photographs and diagrams will be analyzed in order to understand

the case study visually. Elements such as facade, scale, architecture

and materials will be examined. This is tied in with the perceptual

dimension

The social Dimension

This concerns the activities that occur in the public space,particularly social activities. Photographs of amenities and

structures that encourage social activities to occur will be analysed.

The functional Dimension Photographs will be studied to observe the provision of

infrastructures that makes the spaces functional.

Plan and sections will be used to observe the environmentalconsideration of the design.

Both social and functional dimension are interrelated.The temporal Dimension

A study of building use and events in the development in terms oftime cycle

Urban Design dimension

Morphological Perceptual Visual

SocialFunctional Temporal

Street pattern

Block pattern

Building

Path

Edge

District

Nodes

Landmarks

Urban space

Urban architecture

Comfort

Relaxation

Passive engagement

Active engagement

Discovery

Safety and security

Accessibility

Mix building use

Time cycle

24-hours

Weekly

Monthly

Yearly

Table 1: Summary of the urban design dimension framework


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3.5 Limitations

The scope of this study will be limited to the case study that has been

chosen. In studying the urban structure, the area being studied is confined

within the Central City of Melbourne bounded by Spencer Street, Spring

Street and the Yarra north bank to the north, and the area of Southbank

bounded by Clarendon Street, Whiteman and Power Streets, Grant Street

and St. Kilda Road5. More detailed observations will only be centred at

Federation Square and areas that is immediately surrounding it.

Although this study is solely focused on the built environment and does not

include any underlying political issues surrounding Federation Square or

the city itself, it will provide an understanding of the design of Federation

Square in relation to how it influences people using it.

3.6 Evaluation

Once all the data regarding the case study have been collected, these data

will then be analysed according to the related urban design dimensions.

Following this observation and categorization, the data will then be applied

5This scope of study is in line with the Places for People: Melbourne 2004 report to

ensure the availability and viability of the source to this study

Figure 3: Boundary of the study indicated in orange. Taken from Places for

People: Melbourne 2004


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to the case study. Consequently, the analysis of the observations will be

done to answer the research question. Progress of the analysis will be

submitted weekly to the supervisor for feedback.

Feedback process

Throughout the duration of this study, a two-way communication between

student and supervisor is crucial to guide the direction of this research.

Drafts and proposals are submitted to the supervisor and feedback on

these submissions will be given to further develop the study. This is an

ongoing process; hence information and details within the study will be

subjected to be further developed according to feedback given.

According to the previous feedback given for this thesis, the supervisor

suggests looking back into the choice of using multiple case studies that

was previously proposed. This calls for a reading on literatures regarding

case study research strategy. Through this feedback process, the most

appropriate strategy is to use single case study and understanding it moreextensively rather than using two case studies and giving an overall

understanding. Justification of choosing the particular case study as well as

the criteria also needs to be made apparent.

Another feedback that was given is to fully realize the potential of this

research through more critical evaluation. After identifying the urban

structure and how it contributes to the vitality of public spaces, it might be

rewarding to identify the most influential urban design principles that have

the effect on the use of public spaces.

3.7 Project timeline

An indicative project timeline is established to give an idea of how the

research strategy will be realized within the timeframe that was given. The

Gantt chart (Appendix 1) illustrates the progress starting from the

submission of research proposal to the final dissertation submission. It is to

be noted that the Gantt chart is just an indication and the actual time that

each process requires will vary throughout the semester due to weekly

feedback process and amendments made accordingly.


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Chapter Four: Discussion

4.1 Introduction

This chapter briefly studies the city planning of Melbourne as a whole andwill focus on the development of Federation Square using the framework.

Design considerations of Federation Square are analysed and will relate to

the usage of the public plaza. The synthesis from this chapter is mostly

through understanding of the literature and through personal observations.

4.2 Overview of Melbourne city planning

The city planning of Melbourne had been laid out by surveyor Robert

Hoddle in 1837. He planned the city in a grid pattern with ninety-nine feet

wide main streets and narrower thirty-three feet wide secondary streets.

The city grid remains intact up until today although in order to

accommodate the growth of Melbourne, the Council had to gradually buyback four feet of land on each side of the secondary streets in order to

reduce congestion (The History of the City of Melbourne, 1997, p.11).

Referring to the street pattern map (Figure 5.), Melbournes street layout is

characterised as ideal grids6

due to the geometric regularity of its

planning. Melbourne has a fine urban grain7

in which the building blocks

are relatively small and numerous, allowing better accessibility throughout

the public realm. The street system offers good permeability because of the

finely weaved grids that connects with each other eliminating dead ends.

By observing the overlaid 1855 city map and the current street pattern

(Figure 6.), it is evident that the street blocks8 of Melbourne has not

undergone any major changes in structure. The individual plots may have

been amalgamated but the blocks remain intact. This indicates stability and

continuity ofMelbournes urban fabric through time.

Brown-May and Day (2003, p.39), stated that the city grid has served the

city well for over 150 years and also contributed to the... belief that

Melbourne is a well-designed and well-planned city.

6Carmona et al. (2003, p. 65) stated that there are basic distinction in street

patterns which are regular or ideal grids characterized by geometric regularity

and organic or deformed grids characterized by apparent irregularity.7

Fine urban grain refers to street patterns that has many small sized street blocks

as opposed to course urban grain where there are fewer but larger blocks

(Carmona, 2003 p.64)8

Street blocks as defined by Conzen (1960, p.5) refers to areas within the townplan unoccupied by streets and bounded wholly or in part by street lines. Each of

the street blocks represents either single land plot or several plots.

Figure 4: Melbourne city

map 1855 (source: State

Library of Victoria)

Figure 5: Melbourne

street pattern

Figure 6: current street

pattern overlay with 1855

map

Figure 7: Melbourne building

blocks


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4.3 The urban design dimension

4.3.1 Morphological dimension

As defined in Chapter 2, morphological dimension of urban design is to dowith the form and shape of settlements (Carmona, 2003, p. 61). There

are several key elements within urban morphology that has been identified

by Conzen (1960, p.5), which are streets, plots and buildings. The urban

morphology of city of Melbourne have been discussed earlier, therefore,

this topic will apply the same concept to a smaller scale which is the

Federation Square development.

Street pattern

Carmona (2003, p. 64) stated that an important urban design quality

established by the cadastral pattern is that of permeability9- meaning the

extent to which an environment allows a choice of routes both through and

within it. In other words, he refers to the accessibility of the urban

environment to individuals where there are numerous choices of routes in

getting to a destination, creating a journey as opposed to just getting

there.

Due to the good permeability of the Melbournes street system, it is easy

for public to make their way towards any point in the city. Hence, the street

pattern of Melbourne city itself facilitates the pedestrian movement

towards the case study site. Moreover, Swanston Street is one of the main

arteries of the city and is considered as the central retail core of the city.

Street block and plot pattern

Street blocks as defined by Conzen (1960, p.5) refers to areas within the

town plan unoccupied by streets and bounded wholly or in part by street

lines. Each of the street blocks represents either single land plot or several

plots.

The design of Federation Square took into consideration of the size of

existing urban block and reinterprets it into a contemporary plot pattern

The arrangement of buildings is also inspired by the existing plot patternsof laneways and permeability (Figure 8). The square is accessible from

Flinders and Swanston Street, River Terrace and Federation Wharf, as well

as Russell Street. This allows for pedestrians walking along the perimeter of

Federation Square to gain access from different points, hence, giving the

freedom of choice to individuals in experiencing their journey. The most

notable access to the public plaza is through The Atrium which celebrates

the journey with intricate glass facade.

9Permeability can be classified into two which are visual and physical. Visual

permeability refers to the ability to see the routes through an environment, whilephysical permeability refers to the ability to move through an environment.

(Carmona, 2003 p.64)

Figure 8: Melbourne existing

city block (above) and

Federation building blocks

(below)


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Building structures

Although Federation Square is located within similar block size as the

traditional blocks, the arrangement of buildings is different. The building

line of traditional plots is perpendicular to the street, defining the street

edge. On the other hand, buildings on Federation Square are organized in

an irregular fashion, where the buildings open at all angles into the city

fabric, so they allow passage... connecting the Squares functional spaces to

transport stations, laneways, the main civic road of Melbourne and its

river (Brown-May & Day, 2003, p.33).

Through observation of Federation Squares massing (fig xx), the buildings

in Federation Square are arranged in a distorted U-shape, giving enclosure

to the plaza from three sides and spilled out to the street on one side. This

gives a sense of hierarchy to the plaza where it began as a highly loose

open space and progresses to an intimate tighter open space.

It is important to acknowledge that the initial considerations that havebeen made in designing the building massing will correspond with other

urban design dimensions such as visual, functional, social and so forth.

4.3.1 Perceptual and visual dimension

Perception exists through stimulation of our senses, particularly visual.

Carmona (2003, p.130) stated that visual appreciation of urban

environments is also a product of perception and cognition . Hence, it is

inevitable that both visual and perceptual dimension of urban design is

actually two sides of a single coin. Through vision, one will became awareof objects, experience it and later perceive it. This topic will observe the

design of Federation Square visually and perceptually.

The visual dimension

Urban space

Outdoor spaces can be categorized into two which are positive and

negative. Positive spaces are spaces which are relatively enclosed with

definite and distinctive shape which is easily understood. On the otherhand, a negative space is shapeless, a result of the amorphous residue

left over around buildings.

Positive space relates to the sense of spatial containment. Therefore, plan

arrangement ofbuildings is paramount in creating a degree of enclosure

to the outdoor space. According to Carmona et al., the difference between

positive and negative outdoor spaces can also be considered in terms

of their convexity10

(Figure 8.).

10

Convex space refers to space which when a line joining any two points inside thespace lies totally within the space, making it positive (Carmona et al., 2003, p.138).

Figure 9: diagram of

principal of figure-ground

reversal. It is impossible to

imagine the figure as

outdoor space and the

vase as the building.

Hence, the outdoor space

is negativepositive

outdoor space can be

identified when figure-

ground reversal is possible

(source: Carmona et al.,

2003, p.138)

Figure 10: Diagram

illustrating convexity.

Space on the left is

positive while the right is

negative (source:

Carmona et al., 2003,

p.138)


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Figure 11 illustrates the principles of spatial containment and enclosure.

Although the sense of enclosure within an urban is argued to be more

preferred by society, Carmona et al., stated that a balance must also be

struck between achieving enclosure, and considerations such as

permeability and legibility, which importantly influence how well the space

is used (p.141).

The figure-ground reversal of Federation Square (figure 12.) clearly shows

that the top part (in relation to the position of the figure) of the

development is concentrated in black while the lower part is predominantly

white, it is almost like an inversion of positive and negative between the

two areas. The plaza begins as an amorphous space and further into the

development the plaza begins to be more definite and distinctive in shape.

This creates a sense of movement to the development. One begins to enter

the site in a loose space where the buildings are sparse and as they

progress further, the buildings begin to move in towards them. In other

words, the plaza is a mix of both positive and negative spaces.

There are two types of urban spaces which are informal and formal11

(figure 13.). Informal public space is described as to have a more relaxed

character and asymmetrical layout. Based on the figure, Federation Square

can be categorized as an informal spaces and buildings. It is the intention of

the designer to veer away from the traditional formality of the public

square and to create series of interlocking, shattered and strewn places

(Brown-May & Day, 2003, p.33).

Lab architecture studio stated that the geometry of the public plaza

allows for a vast array of configurations and arrangements, from the

largest scale public gathering of up to 15,000 people to intimate sites of

relaxation and contemplation (p.65).

11

Formal space have a strong sense of enclosure; orderly floorscape andarrangement of street furniture; surrounding buildings that enhance the formality

and often symmetrical layout.

Figure 11: Diagram

illustrating spatial

containment (Booth,

1983)

Figure 12: Figure-ground

reversal diagram of

Federation SquareFigure 13: Formal and informal spaces (source: Carmona, 2003)


30/43


Urban architecture

Urban architecture refers to the visual-aesthetic of the urban

environment. The visual-aesthetic quality of an urban environment not only

derived from spatial qualities, but also from colour, texture and detailing

of its defining surfaces (Carmona et al., 2003 p.149) . Therefore, this section

will concentrate on the design and materiality of facade, as well as hard

and soft landscaping of Federation Square.

Facade

There are six criteria that the Royal Fine Art Commission (RFAC) has

outlined in attempt to understand what makes a good building

(Cantacuzino, 1994).

Order and unity balance, symmetry, repetition, grid, etc. Expression building expression relates to its function Integrity the building is true to its design principles Plan and section honest relationship between facade and its plan

and section12

Detail visual richness (complexity) and elegance(proportions) offacade

Integration harmonisation of a building with its surroundingA quote from peter Davidson of Lab architecture studio regarding the

concept of Federation Square gave an overview of their design intention.

Its about independent identities that come together to

form a larger whole. Its about really something that

centres around coherence and difference. Differences

about individual entities, coherence about the whole

they form (Brown-May & Day, 2003, p.32)

Within the statement above, there are reference to how the designers

approach order and unity where each entity is different but could be

understood as a cohesive whole.

The first impression when looking at the facade of Federation Square is the

complexity of the details. The facade design was inspired by the Sydney

Opera Houses roof, which used two types of tiles, glazed and matt,

creating a visual effect when the sun is reflected upon it. The designers of

Federation Square wish to create this visual impact by using three materials

for the facade, zinc sandstone and glass. These materials are then cut into

12instances where this relation *faade and its plan and section+ is false or weak

are usually known as facadism, displayed where there is a functional and structuraldishonestybetween a buildings interior and exterior or where there is a new

building behind a retained historic faade (Carmona et al., 2003, p.151)


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repetitive triangles and arranged in a complex three dimensional abstract

sculpture (Brown-May & Day, 2003, p.74). The intricacy of the facade

contributes to the visual richness of the development.

The facade lacks any traditional order and symmetry but the repetition and

breaking up of the elements with solids and voids create a sense of balance

within the chaos. In terms of building expression, the whole development

reads as a whole, where singular identity and function of each building

within the development is not apparent, except for the fully glazed

Melbourne Visitors Centre. Despite the intention of the architects in

creating site coherence while ensuring each building was different, it seems

that the functions of the buildings are drowned by the complex facade.

Nevertheless, the facade gives a sense of curiosity and encourages people

to explore and discover the development where the function of each

building reveals itself as one enters it. The facade is indeed true to the plan

and section where the geometry of both walls and ceiling of the interior

corresponds to the fractured elevation.

Carmona et al., stated that integration or fitting in does not necessarily

mean architectural style, but actually refers more to visual criteria such as

scale and rhythm (2003, p.154). It was also stated that there are three

basic approaches to creating harmony with the existing context:

Referring to the description,

federation square could be considered

as juxtaposition of a new development

within a historical context (figure 14.),

similarly to the Glass Pyramid at Le

Louvre, Paris, France. This approach

will usually create a public commotion

and interpretation of the design.

...there are suggestions of the rubbish pile, a

Disneyesque Strange World, deflated German

Expressionism... (Brown-May & Day, 2003, p.36)

Although it may seem that Federation Square is an alien of a building in the

historical context of the site, the building height of the development is toscale with the surrounding buildings. It may overpower other buildings in

uniformity continuity juxtaposition

Figure 14: Diagrams illustrating approaches in building integration

Figure 15: Juxtaposition of Federation

Square to the historical context


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terms of its architectural expression, but the development counters this in

terms of building scale. Figure 16 demonstrate the elevation of Federation

Square to the surrounding context, and it is evident that the surroundings

are not totally overwhelmed. From this elevation, it is evident that St. Pauls

cathedral still holds most powerful urban image.

Figure 16: Federation Square elevation (source: Brown-May & Day, 2003)

Hard and soft landscaping

Similarly to the facade, the floorscape of the public plaza is treated as a

display of massive artwork. The pattern is laid out as an artwork,

Nearamnew13

, by Paul Carter. Sandstone cobbles of varying colours are

used to create a tapestry of visual topography for the square. Words from

federal poems were carved into the sandstone in a fragmented manner to

create an enigmatic quality as a whole (figure 17).

The artwork that has been integrated with the floorscape gives an

opportunity for public engagement. These texts, which are fragmented

creates a sense of curiosity, hence people will stop and read them.

Therefore, people will spend longer time in the public square.

There are a few soft landscaping

within the public plaza (figure 18).

These landscaping is not a

significant part of the design but

the presence of green elements

within the public square humanise

the space.

13Nearamnew derived from the Aboriginal word narr-m, which signifies the

place where Melbourne now stands. It celebrates the emergence of a new space,and brings together ideas of histories and patters that are part of the place(Brown-

May & Day, 2003, p.71)

Figure 18: Soft landscaping around

Federation SquareFigure 19: Aerial view of the

public plaza (source: Brown-

May & Day, 2003)

Figure 17: locations of federal

poems throughout the

square


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The perceptual dimension

Referring to Chapter 2, the perceptual dimension is about the legibility and

imageability of the city to society. Hence, this topic will mainly discuss the

location of Federation Square and how the surrounding physical attributes

contributes to the vitality of the public plaza. Lynch (1960, p.47) stated that

legibility and imageability is derived from physical attributes of a city and

he derived five key physical elements:

Paths streets, transit lines, canals Edges shores, river, walls, edges of development Districtsmedium to large sections of the city with thematic

continuities

Nodes junctions, high level of concentration Landmarks point reference: towers, sculptures, signs

Relating to the five physical elements above, it could be observed that the

location of Federation Square has all of the five elements. Flinders,

Swanston and St Kilda Road are all major paths of the city. Along thesepaths, there are numerous significant buildings and structures that

strengthen the urban perception, making the paths as the main choice of

movement. Hence, people would naturally move along these paths and will

be led to the location of Federation Square.

Edges are important attribute in the perceptual dimension because it is an

important part of organising feature14

of a city. Federation Square is also

located next to the edge of the Yarra river. Carmona et al. (2003), stated

that the strongest edges are visually prominent and water forms an

important edge for cities (p.90). Another important characteristic of water

14Most cities has very clear identified edges such as rivers, and the organization of

the city structure is with reference to the river

Nodes

Landmark

Paths

Edges

Figure 20: indication of paths, edges, landmarks and nodes

Figure 21: Photograph of St.

Pauls Cathedral


34/43


is that people are naturally drawn to it. Moreover, the developments along

Yarra River attract more pedestrian to the area.

The area of Federation Square could be considered as a historical district.

This is because of the numerous historical structures listed in the Victorian

Heritage List, are located nearby. It could also be considered as a touristic

district because of the same reason as well.

It is apparent that Federation Square is situated at a major node of the city.

Firstly, it is located directly opposite the Flinders Train Station as well as

tram stops. Secondly, the development is situated at a major street

junction of Flinders and Swanston Street where major pedestrian

movement occurs. Carmona et al. (2003) stated that junctions and changes

of travel mode make nodes more significant (p.90). The visual richness of

the buildings around the area makes the node even more memorable.

The same historical structures discussed above also acts as landmarks

which people associate as reference points of the city. This is especiallytrue for St. Pauls Cathedral where the church spires towers above other

buildings around the area. Hence, the location of Federation Square allows

for natural way-finding for the public because of the numerous point

references. Presently, Federation Square is also considered as a major

landmark of the city of Melbourne. These physical attributes when

considered as a whole creates a distinct urban image and significance to

the public.

4.3.3 Social and functional dimension

In order for social activities to occur, an urban space has to be functional.

Hence, both social and functional dimension are inter-related. This topic

observes how the design of Federation Square encourages social activities

or public life to occur.

The functional dimension

For the purpose of this study, the functional dimension refers to design

considerations that serve the needs of users. Carmona et al. (2003, p.165-

168) have outlined five primary needs of users:

Comfort environmental, physical and psychological Relaxation body and mind at ease Passive engagement to observe social interaction Active engagement being a part of social interaction Discovery variety and change

The massing of the buildings around Federation Square do contribute to

the environmental comfort for the public square. Referring to Figure 24, it

is evident that the breaking up of the building massing with voids do createa comfortable wind environment for the square. The openness of the

Figure 23: Photograph of

Forum Theatre on Flinders

Street

Figure 22: Photograph of

Flinders Street Station

(source: State Library

Figure 24: Diagram

illustrating building mass an

wind environment (source:

Carmona et al. 2003)

Figure 25: Amount of seatin

in Federation Square (source

Places for People:

Melbourne 2004


35/43


square allows for natural lighting to occur throughout the day, while

umbrellas and trees are provided to give needed shade for the public.

These positive ambience will lead to physical and psychological comfort for

users.

Sense of relaxation can be achieved through trees, greenery, water

features and seperation from vehicular traffic (Carmona et al., 2003,

p.166). Through observation, there are only a few trees scattered around

the public plaza, and the role is quite insignificant. Nevertheless, the

existence of the trees around the plaza do ease the harsh starkness of the

plaza. The design of the plaza also provides inclusion as well as seperation

from surrounding traffic, depending on the location of the user (refer to the

visual dimension).

Numerous informal seating areas

around the plaza allow users to

observe the surrounding activities

without being directly engagedwith it. On the other hand,

various elements, such as FedTV

and the floorscape of the plaza

itself encourage active

engagement between users.

Programs and animation of the plaza contributes to the discovery factor of

the human needs. These activities activate the plaza by creating new

spectacle for the public to enjoy. Details and discussion of events andactivities will be discussed in the temporal dimension section.

The social dimension

Carmona et al. (2003, p.107), stated that urban design can be seen as a

means of manipulating the probabilities of certain actions or behaviours

occurring. There are several factors that need to be considered in order to

encourage positive social usage of public spaces. One of them is as

previously discussed which is the functional element of the space. This

topic observes other factors such as safety and security, accessibility andbuilding use.

Safety and security

A whole-of-city measure has been applied by the City of Melbourne in

order to improve safety and security in the public realm. One of the main

initiatives is the lighting strategy, where places which are attractive during

the day, will also be safe and engaging after dark. This is true for Federation

Square where there are numerous lights scattered above the public plaza.

As discussed earlier, active frontages in Federation Square also provides a

sense of security to pedestrian, thus encouraging people to use the space.

Figure 26: Photograph of people using

the laza informall


36/43


Most of the active frontages15

of Federation Square are concentrated at the

public plaza while the rear of the development is mainly Grade C facades

(figure xx). This is an understandable strategy because most pedestrian

movement occurs at the public plaza.

Other than that, the mix building use in Federation Square also ensures

that there is constant flow of people throughout the day around the public

plaza. The constant flow of people gives a sense of safety and security,

hence encouraging more people to use the plaza.

Accessibility

Accessibility is an important element to encourage social usage of a public

space. It relates to the welcoming vibe of the space to the public.

Accessibility is not limited to physical accessibility, as Carr et al. (1992, p.

138) have identified, there are three forms of access:

Visual if people can see into a space before they enter it, they canjudge whether they would feel comfortable, welcome and safethere

Symbolic can be animate or inanimate. Individuals or groups thatpopulate the space can be perceived as threatening or inviting. On

the other hand, types of building use may signal the type of people

that are welcome there

Physical concerns whether the space is physically accessible to thepublic

The form of the square as discussed in the visual dimension , creates theopportunity for public to assess it wholly before entering it. The openness

of the main entry point of the square gives a sense of welcoming and

safety. This encourages people to venture into the square and become a

part of the social interaction.

Provision of informal seating, large TV screen, cafes and numerous

amenities gives inanimate symbol cues to observers. These amenities

represent the public plaza as a positive space for everyone such as families,

teenagers and so forth. Once these people populates the space, it will then

give animate cues to more observer to perceive it as a safe and welcoming

space, hence inviting more people to populate the public plaza.

The public plaza of Federation Square could be considered as a highly

accessible physically. The undulating design of the plaza became integrated

ramps for wheelchair access (Figure 28). Other parts in which ramps are not

available, lifts are also provided. It could be concluded that Federation

Square is a development of public inclusion.

15Grade A facades offer two-way visual permeability at street level; Grade B

facades provide some visual access to the interior, but is obscured by displays,

signage or the scale and type of glazing; Grade C have poor street interface due topoor or no visibility (City of Melbourne. Places for People Melbourne 2004)

Figure 27: Facade grade study

(source: Places for People:

Melbourne 2004)

Figure 28: Accessibility in

Federation Square (source:

www.fedsquare.com/)


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Mix building use

In order to ensure the continuity of social activities, numerous types of

building usage should be integrated within a development. Based on figure

xx, it is evident that the development of Federation Square utilise this key

principle. The presence of different building use attracts numerous

categories of users, from children to elderly. Hence, this generates a wide

diversity of people populating the public plaza at different times of the day.

4.3.4 Temporal dimension

As stated in Chapter 2, the temporal dimension has three key aspects, time

cycles, continuity and stability and change. Since this study is focusing on

the vitality- the amount of people that populates the space, this section will

be limited to the time cycle of the temporal dimension. In order to

encourage and facilitate the use of urban spaces, an understanding of timecycles of day and nights, the seasons and activity cycles needs to be

understood.

Montgometry (1995, p. 104) stated that constant flow of people can be

stimulated by planned programmes of cultural animation across a range of

times and venues. Another factor for successful animation of public plaza

relies on the overlapping of complementary activities and this is evident in

Federation Square management. Hence, these planned programs that are

organized by the management help to animate and contribute to the

vitality of the public plaza. These are some building use and events being

held in Federation Square, arranged by the time cycles:

24-hour cycle

The development of Federation Square is in line with Melbournes

revitalisation project which aims in creating a 24-hour city. There is a mix of

building use within the development that ensures the plaza is populated

with people at most hours. Some of the opening hours within the

development:

Australian Centre for the Moving Image: 10am 6pm The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia: 10am 5pm

7-eleven: 24 hours Cafes and bars: varies, most 8am 1130pm Hotel: 24 hours

Weekly cycle

There are also weekly activities being held in Federation Square. These

activities provide the opportunity for public engagement, especially for

local residents of Melbourne. Some of the weekly activities are:

Book Fair: Saturdays Late night Thursdays Tai Chi: Tuesdays

Figure 29: Building use study

(source: Places for People:

Melbourne 2004)


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Monthly cycle

Federation Square also organizes monthly events which creates a constant

points of interest throughout the year.

Multicultural events: monthly Wine showcase: bi-monthly Classics at Fed Square: 1st Monday every monthYearly cycle

Federation Square become an attraction for tourists to visit Melbourne in

order to witness these special events.

The Light in winter: 1 month during winter New Year free party: New Years Eve.

The diverse activities, events and opening hour throughout different time

cycles provide continual use of the square. Hence, the vitality of the square

is further enhanced.

4.4 Stationary Activities in Federation Square

Based on the Places for People: Melbourne 2004 survey, there is a high

level of stationary activities in Federation Square both during weekday aswell as Saturdays (figure 30). Activity with the highest number of people is

sitting at a cafe for both weekdays and Saturdays. Hence, the provision of

numerous cafes and restaurants in the development really contributes to

the number of people populating the square.

Figure 30: Stationary activities study around Melbourne (source: Places for People: Melbourne

2004)


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Taking a closer look at Federation Square, the survey has established charts

that explain the usage of Federation Square in a 24-hour cycle for weekdays

and Saturdays (figure xx). It is evident from the charts that peak usage of

Federation square begins from 6.30pm onwards for both days. During

Saturdays, the square has high stationary activities until 12am. This could

be related to cultural activities being held during the Saturday nights.

Table 2: Stationary activities study at Federation Square (source: Places for People:

Melbourne 2004)

4.5 Conclusion

Regardless of the initial disapproval from the public on the design of

Federation Square, it could be concluded that the square is a successful

public space. This is because of the numerous urban design principles that

have been considered in its formation.

Through the observation and analysis of the case study using the

framework, it is apparent that each of the dimensions is interrelated.

Ultimately, it could be concluded that the morphological dimension ofurban design held the utmost influence to the vitality of public space. This

is because the beginnings of a city will always start with its morphology,

and the visual, perceptual and functional dimensions of the city always

relate back to its form. As an example, the morphology will also influence

physical and visual accessibility. In addition, finer details of urban design

that concerns with the social and temporal dimensions further enhance the

vitality in the public realm.


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33

Chapter Five: Conclusion

Conclusion research objective

The objective of this research was to better understand the relationship

between the vitality of public spaces and urban design. This research also

seeks to understand the dimensions in urban design in order to give clarity

in explaining the relationship. Within the literature review, the importance

of public space has been highlighted. The urban design framework has also

been discussed in depth. Each of the dimensions is explained based on

numerous literatures. Hence, this gave a concrete foundation for

understanding the relationship of the vitality public space and urban

design. Using the methodology that has been outlined, the application of

the framework to a case study gives a clear understanding of the

relationship between vitality and urban design.

Conclusion research aims

The research aims at examining the urban structure of Melbourne city and

Federation Square using the framework. This is done in the discussion

chapter using the research method that has been outlined in the

methodology. Secondly, the research aims at relating the urban design of

Melbourne city to the development of Federation Square. The application

of the framework to both Melbourne city and Federation Square, allows

the researcher to understand the relation between Melbourne urban

design and the development of Federation Square. Lastly, the research

aims at investigating the connection between considerations in urban

design to the vitality of public spaces. Through the analysis of Melbournesurban design and the design of Federation Square using the framework, it

could be concluded that there is a connection between urban design

considerations and the vitality of public spaces.

Conclusion research question

The connection between urban design considerations and the vitality of

public spaces has been made clear in the discussion. Through t

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