Harvard University · United States
Urban Design Principles and Practices
This interdisciplinary course provides an introduction to urban design, covering its history, principles, processes, and effects on people, places, and communities. Through readings, discussions with practitioners, workshops, and site visits, students will develop a foundational understanding of the field's evolution and methods. The course aims to equip students with knowledge of professional resources and tools, and the skills to engage in urban design processes and projects.
Students will explore the role of urban design in society, considering its intersections with architecture, landscape architecture, public policy, real estate, and urban planning. The influence of culture, history, economics, politics, advocacy, and public engagement will be examined to understand how to create inclusive, resilient, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments.
Each student will undertake a semester-long research project analyzing a completed Boston development. Weekly prompts will guide students in applying course concepts, communicating their findings verbally, visually, and in writing. Through informal presentations and peer feedback, students will refine their skills, culminating in a detailed, illustrated case study.