Use overrides the ideal ordering of space in “planned” cities, while ordering mechanisms emerge in “unplanned” cities. I call this “breakage” and analyze its impact on flow (people, sunlight, wind).
space / form typology
An indicator of typology of space is my level of comfort taking photographs. In public space I feel free to photograph anything I want. In semi-public I begin to feel conscious of subjects in the frame, and in the private realm permission to photograph is necessary. I study how these spaces transition. Additionally, I study building form types - whether their use has changed over time and how the form types change with culture and climate. Together these space and form types aggregate into urban fabric. Where two distinct fabrics come together is of interest.
culture of space
Religion as ordering mechanism makes the Islamic city a field, while the Christian city is object-oriented. In Fez I stood next to a great mosque without realizing it. In Rome, churches are on axis, with large plazas clearing space to appreciate the decorated facades. In the Christian city streets come first, and the courtyard results within the block. In the Islamic city the courtyard comes first, and the street results outside of the block.
methodology
Sketching, writing, and sound recordings have been most effective, with photography documenting light qualities and people flows that are difficult to sketch. A photo montage technique captures continuity and movement through space while challenging traditional opticality.
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