Urban Field Walk
The goal for this exercise is to explore an urban setting using the “O SAE can you see” model. This method was adapted for this exercise from Dr. Christopher Salter by Dr. Bill Strong (and then ‘borrowed’ by me!).
The importance factor in this adventure is not ‘knowledge’ (knowing various architectural styles or dates of construction), it is OBSERVATION. What catches your eye?, what provides structure and design in an urban environment? “Let curiosity be your guide and enjoy your most excellent adventure”
How to Read a Landscape: a primary geographic document.
What makes this urban place unique? (What differences are here that are not found in other urban environments?)
What elements give a city its identity? Identify at least 6 examples that illustrate the unique identity of ______.
What features do you observe that are common to most urban centers (list at least 4 examples)?
Typonymy is the study of place names. Places are usually named for one of 4 reasons:
- Descriptive
- Commemorative
- For people
- For other places
Choose at least 4 place names and describe what you think was the selection process?
An urban environment it superimposed on the existing physical environment. What elements do you observe in the urban environment that reflect (or disguise or enhance) the physical setting of the urban area?
Urban environments reflect changing styles, standards and systems. For each of the following questions, note examples:
Are there old buildings that have new functions?
Are there areas of decay, neglect or abandonment?
Are there areas of small scale, incremental renewal or redevelopment? Describe them
How about examples of large scale redevelopment?
Can you identify the ‘fingerprints’ of changing fashion and economic need?
Are there features or symbolism that give identity or personality to regions or buildings?
Are there expressions of cultural (or economic or social) diversity?
Identify and describe the transition zones between different cultural or economic landscapes.