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URBAN TRANSFORMATION
A CASE OF UTAWALA
URBAN TRANSFORMATION OF UTAWALA
NAME: OLANGO RICHARD

REG NO: B02/100868/2017
UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND ENGINEERING
SCHOOL OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE AND BUILDING SCIENCE
DECLARATION
This is my original work and to the best of my knowledge has not been presented for the award of a degree in this or any other
university.
Signed………………………………………. DATE………………………………….
OLANGO RICHARD (Reg No.: B02/100868/2017)
This project report has been submitted with our approval as the university supervisor:
Signed………………………………………DATE…………………………………..
Arch.E.O. Abonyo
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of

.
1.0 BACKGROUND STUDY
Urban transformation can be described as the sum of comprehensive and integrated

approaches, strategies and actions implemented to improve the economic, social,
physical and environmental conditions of an urban space. Strategies developed are
done to find solutions to current problems and develop a particular area
economically, spatially and environmentally with a new vision of the future. As the
city grows and expands, a lot of strain is placed on fragments within the city, which
have to constantly transform and grow to accommodate the rapidly increasing
population size. This growth brings about an increase in commercial activity as
well as a great need for housing to support the population. This results in the
expansion of the city Centre, which takes over previous residential areas.
Utawala is a rapidly developing ward along Nairobi’s Eastern By-pas road. Utawala
originates from the Swahili term “Utawala” meaning administration or rule.
Soldiers who came from overseas mainly from Sarajevo first settled in the area. The
name Utawala also originates from the presence of the Kenya Administration
Police Training School and the General Service Unit Training School in the
location
Utawala is quickly changing from a sparsely populated residential area to a dense

residential settlement and also a developing area which is considered a dormitory
town for people working in Central Nairobi. The building typology that existed in
Utawala as recently as 2007 which was before construction of the highway
consisted of single storey residential units which had their own plot allocations by
the city council. The primary access into Utawala was by dirt roads from Ruai
which is bordering Utawala to the North East. Access to the Administration Police
Training School and the General Service Unit training school was by a tarmac road
Figure 1.0 Map showing Utawala neighborhood and its environs in 2008
that passed within the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport fence linked with the
Source: Google earth
airport North Road near Kenya Airways headquarters.
Development in Utawala intensified beginning 2008, when a dirt road extending

from Embakasi Garrison to Ruai served as the primary access into Utawala
settlement stood out as the main axis of development of the area. By the time the
Eastern by-pass road was being constructed there was a growing residential area in
Utawala and the bordering town Ruai. The construction of the Eastern By-pass
comprised of a new 2-lane single carriage way with an overpass at the Kangundo
Road Junction and a slip road at the Utawala township.
The construction of the Eastern By and the overpass at Kangundo Road accelerated
the transformation of Utawala from a peripheral residential area to an integral part
of the Nairobi Metropolitan Region.
1.1 PROBLEM STATEMENT
Utawala is a rapidly developing ward in Embakasi constituency along the Eastern

by- pass road. The town is rapidly changing from a sparsely populated residential
area to a densely populated area with new contemporary buildings being
constructed which has majorly been influenced by construction of the Eastern by-
pass. The construction of the highway has brought about changes in land use along
the area and also increased the population of the area. With this increase in
population, there has been a change in the urban fabric of Utawala with newer
commercial, recreational, educational and health facilities being constructed. The
earlier buildings which mostly were 1 storey high are being replaced by more taller
buildings and some parts there is incremental building where other floors are being
added to the earlier buildings to accommodate more space.
The building line is also irregular since there is no respect to the existing building
line and the heights and styles of buildings with some having uncontrolled recesses
and projections. Some buildings have their building elements such as staircases
done on the outside so that people coming into the building can access the upper
floor without getting into the building. Due to this, the road reserve is being
chocked and the road reserve is being used for informal functions such as
temporary storage, product display, working, informal parking and vehicular repair.
Many culverts have been constructed to lead to the shop fronts of commercial
buildings in order for them to also to get traffic from the road to their shops.
The town has grown through a process of rapid accretion after the opening of the
Eastern By-pass highway. The Eastern By-pass Road serves as the main axis of
development in Utawala and therefore is met with limited carrying capacity of
infrastructure since the town is growing in a linear manner and activities in the
town are focused along the road.
The research therefore aims to investigate the main forces driving the
transformation of built forms in Utawala, the morphological and spatial
transformation that have taken place in Utawala and which strategies can be
employed for future transformation and sustainable development.
1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
1. What are the concepts of urban transformation in the context of Utawala

2. What are the morphological, spatial and built form transformations that have
taken place in Utawala
3. What planning strategies can be employed for future transformation and
sustainable development.
1.3 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
1. To explore the concept of urban transformation in the context of sustainable

development (Relationship between urban transformation and sustainable
development)
2. To investigate and analyze morphological, spatial and changes in built form
that have taken place in Utawala
3. To develop planning design strategies that can be employed for sustainable
development of Utawala
1.4 SIGNIFICANCE AND JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY
There is little existing information on urban transformation of Utawala region. This

study seeks to bridge the gap by providing comprehensive documentation on
transformation of built forms in Utawala.
The study strives to re-orient the thinking and planning practice as a basis for
developing future urban developments and transformations in growing towns and
cities. It will contribute to addressing the impact brought about construction of a
transport artery to an existing town. Findings and analysis from this study will help
guide for future transformations and developments and how future transformations
can be controlled to achieve a good urban settlement
1.5 SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS
GEOGRAPHICAL SCOPE
The study limits itself to Utawala along the Eastern by pass road. The study intends
to cover the section from Astrol Petrol station along near the GSU Training school
to Komarock modern healthcare hospital all the way to the junction where the
Eastern by- pass meets Kangundo road.
The study focuses on the spatial and physical aspects of the built environment
focusing on changes that have taken place in the area in terms of building typology,
changes in land use and plots allocation, state of infrastructure and services zoning
and urban planning regulations in the area and the demographics of the area.
TIME SCOPE
. The Eastern Bypass Road construction was between 2009 where it began up to
2014 when it was officially opened. The study will limit itself from 2008 to 2021 to
record the changes in the urban fabric of Utawala.
LIMITATIONS
Inadequate understanding of how African cities develop and acquire certain

physical characteristics, as well as a lack of relevant theories and concepts to
explain the evolution, has hampered research in this field. inadequate data sources
and limited access to privately owned properties also limits the study. To curb this,
Sketches and drawings were use
1.6 KEY DEFINITIONS
1.7 ORGANIZATION OF STUDY
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION This chapter introduces the topic of study, describes the problem area, research
objectives and questions, the significance of the study, scope and limitations,
research methodology, term definitions, and the thesis structure.
This chapter connects theory and practice by analyzing relevant data from books,
CHAPTER 2: LITERARUTE REVIEW journals, research papers, and the Internet. It discusses urban form theories and
concepts such as the urban block and urban spaces. It goes on to talk about urban
morphological transformation in African cities. The section concludes with the
creation of a theoretical model.
This chapter is dedicated to the methods used in conducting the research. It

CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
describes the research design, research strategies, criteria for selecting study cases,
data collection and analysis techniques, and final presentation techniques.
CHAPTER 4: STUDY AREA This chapter identifies the study area and provides a historical overview of Urban
forms in Utawala from the year 2008 to the present.
This chapter examines the morphological transformation of Utawala identifying the

CHAPTER 5: ANALYSIS OF UTAWALA forces at work and the effects of the transformation on urban forms.
URBAN FORMS
This chapter focuses on the empirical study's actual findings. It interprets and
CHAPTER 6: SUMMARY OF FINDINGS,
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS explains the findings in relation to the study objectives and a review of the
literature. Finally, it expands on the study's conclusions and recommendations
based on the findings.
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

INTRODUCTION
2.0 INTRODUCTION
This chapter mentions theories and concepts of urban form; the urban space and the
urban block. It further discusses urban morphological transformation in African
cities.
2.1 DEFINING URBAN TRANSFORMATION
Urban transformations are the outcome of radical changes of dominant structures

(e.g., infrastructures, regulations), cultures (e.g., values) and practices (e.g.,
mobility behaviors) of such urban (sub-)systems. As a result of these changes, what
kind of and how system functions are delivered is fundamentally altered (Ernst et
al. 2016).
(Alev P. Bekdemir, 2011) describes urban transformation as entire strategies and
actions used to improve the economic, social, physical and environmental
conditions of damaged and collapsed urban areas by comprehensive and integrated
approaches
(Egercioglu, 2016) describes urban transformation as entire strategies and actions
used to improve the economic, social, physical and environmental conditions of
damaged and collapsed urban areas by comprehensive and integrated approaches
The term "transformation" refers to a shift in the trajectory of events, as well as a
shift in the rules that govern innovative action. During the transformation process, a
new system may emerge from the old one as a result of cumulative adjustments in a
new direction. A return from the new system to the old one may occur during this
process. This transformation process is more dependent on the adaptive capacity of
regime actors than on radical technological innovations. It is also unclear whether
the transformation process has concluded because transformation is a continuous
process. (Kemp, 2007)
2.1.1 CATEGORIES OF TRANSFORMATION
Heritage conservation-based urban transformation:

In general, urban areas with historical and cultural significance in the city are
engaged in heritage conservation-based urban transformation, with the preservation
of heritage as a primary concern.
Urban Transformation Based on Regeneration:
Existing urban areas with economic and functional potential, as well as derelict
industrial areas and docklands, are investigated using a regeneration-based urban
transformation model that promotes hedonistic restructuring as a hallmark. As a
result, it emphasizes urban regeneration as well as reconstruction, redevelopment,
restructuring, and land-use change as process methods. It creates policy and
strategy frameworks using agent-based entrepreneurial models.
Re) Development-based Urban Transformation:

Deteriorated urban spaces in the city necessitate urban transformation based on

redevelopment that focuses on urban upgrading and socioeconomic restructuring.
As a result, it focuses on urban renaissance as well as renewal, revitalization,
rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse as process methods.
2.1.2 FACTORS OF URBAN TRANSFORMATION (ISOCARP,2012
2.1.2.1 Population
One of the most influential factors in shaping urban form is population. It has a
direct impact on the size of cities, the cultural pattern of the urban environment, and
the character of urban activities, all of which have an impact on the urban space.
The variability of demographic factors, combined with an increase in population
(migration due to economic, political, and cultural influence), determines future
development directions in terms of the need for new residential, business, sports,
and other urban-standard facilities.
2.1.2.2 Economy
The economy is directly dependent on state organization and political development.

Last morphological periods were followed by increased intensities of political and
economic influence - the strong role of government in political decision-making
and funding during the socialist period, and the introduction of private activation
and participation. During the transition period, capital is required.
2.1.2.3 Urban Planning
The role of urban planning in urban transformation is determined by the area

covered by the plans and the scope of their implementation. Many cities in Bosnia
and Herzegovina have evolved under the strong influence of urban planning from
the 1960s to the present. The scope of planning and scale of plan implementation
reflect society's economic power and commitment to strategic planning in order to
protect the public interest in space.
2.1.2.4 Architectural Design
Architectural design has a direct impact on urban space through the shape and
materialization of which, depending on the degree of integration of the contextual
conditions, considers architectural creativity directly related to the degree of
economic development of society. During the socialist era, there were notable
architectural achievements of social standing.
2.1.3 Urban Transformation Processes

2.1.3.1 Modernization Stage Theory
Cities are changing. In some ways, this can be viewed as a modernization process.
Rostow (1960) proposes a five-stage-of-growth model (also known as 'Rostow's
Stages of Growth, with a graph that categorizes all societies in their economic
dimensions as falling into one of five varying-length categories: the traditional
society, the preconditions for take-off, the take-off, the drive to maturity, and the
age of high mass consumption. Each stage is distinguished by its economic interests
and social consequences.
The take-off stage, for example, occurs when sector-led growth becomes common
and society is driven more by economic processes than by traditions. At this point,
the norms of economic expansion are well-established. Rostow is a noted early
adopter of the term "transition" when discussing the take-off, which is used to
describe the transition from a traditional economy to a modern economy. A country
may take fifty to one hundred years to mature after takeoff.
The need for the economy to diversify is referred to as the maturity drive. The
economy's initial leaders begin to level off, while other sectors take off.
Because society no longer needs to sacrifice its comfort in order to strengthen
certain sectors, this diversity leads to significantly lower rates of poverty and rising
living standards.
2.1.3.2 Urbanization Stage Theory

Urbanization, along with industrialization, is regarded as the primary driver of

modernization.
Rostow (1960) 127 proposed a 'S-shaped' urbanization curve to describe the
development of urbanization based on statistical analysis of American cities. At
different points along the curve, different countries arrive. The urbanization process
can be divided into three stages at the national level:
• During the early stages of urbanization, the majority of the population lives
in rural areas and works in primary-sector occupations. A 'traditional'
economic structure characterizes this stage. Urban population growth slows
during this early stage of urbanization. When the level of urbanization
exceeds 10%, the process of urbanization accelerates gradually.
• When the level of urbanization exceeds 30% 129, the urbanization process
has completed Second stage, with accompanying trend acceleration, driven
by industrial growth and mass rural-urban migration, resulting in a period of
accelerating urban growth. There is a significant redistribution of the
population during the acceleration stage. So that the urban component rises
from less than 30% to around 70% of the total. This is a period of increased
concentration of people and economic activity in which the secondary and
tertiary sectors of the economy gain importance. Eventually, the rate of
urbanization will rise. As shown near the top of the curve, the increase
begins to decline.
• When the level of urbanization exceeds 70%, urban growth stabilizes,

though individual urban areas may grow or decline. Growth in the third
stage is minimal, with competition among cities in a national urban system
intensifying one city's gain at the expense of another city's loss
2.2 THE MORPHOLOGICAL DIMENSION
One approach of understanding the city is through urban morphology. Morphology

is the knowledge of external form; morphology describes urban form as it is and
deals with the external form of the city, both voids and solids. (Moshi, 2008, p. 15)
Morphology, according to Carmona et al. (2003), is the layout and configuration of
urban form and space. There are two types of urban space systems: "traditional"
and "modernist." 'Traditional' urban space is made up of buildings that are
constituent parts of urban blocks that define and enclose external space.
The morphological dimension in this study focuses on (Loeckx, 1982) and
(Conzen, 1960).
Loeckx's (1982) approach to built form and space is morphological. The focus is
not on the external form as an overall phenomenon, but on specific logics of formal
coherence and dynamics of formal development and transformation. The "tissue
metaphor" views the built environment as a morphological interweaving of built
and open space. Analyzing a built environment as a tissue entail investigating
concrete patterns of built and open space interweaving and attempting to formulate
the main morphological themes underlying this interweaving.
2.2.1 Interweaving of built up and open spaces
The tissue methodology takes into account various building types as well as a
hierarchy of distinct open spaces. Building typologies are classified based on their
uniqueness or repetition in the tissue. In general, repeating elements are typically
used, form the tissue's theme, and unique elements that appear just once and
provide differentiated tissue configurations
2.2.2 Hierarchy of scale

(Loeckx, 1982) states that pure morphological differentiation cannot fully render
the diversity and hierarchy of tissue elements as a result, a distinction must also be
made between the various scale-levels on which the tissue analysis is performed.
Tissue analysis at the city, neighborhood, block, and building levels differ, each
with its own set of typical tissue elements and morphological principles. He also
mentions that, while each level has its own logic, it is not possible to analyze each
level as a completely independent entity.
2.2.3 Interweaving of hard and soft elements zones and margins
A tissue can be made up of both "hard" and "soft" elements. The basic
morphological structure is composed of "hard" elements, which are relatively stable
and resist major changes within the tissue. Plot configurations, monuments,
avenues, circulation, and access are examples of hard elements of a tissue. "Soft
elements, on the other hand, grow and change without major conflicts.
2.2.4 Spatial articulation of functional themes
(Loeckx, 1982) looks at the functional aspect of spatial elements in his tissue
approach of built form, which contributes to the spatial configuration of a
settlement. The major focus is on interweaving of functions and not functional
separation of tissue elements. In one case, a spatial overview may be the tissue's
organizing principle; in the other, one distinct segment is controlled by a socially
distinct control instance. A limited number of such basic functional themes offer a
structuring device that influences the settlement form in each settlement.
A tissue governs access to services and resources at the city level. A settlement
tissue allows or prevents individual or social identification of the settlement user at
each level of scale. On a more local level, the tissue provides satisfaction as well as
spatial opportunities for family members structure as well as history
2.2.5 The tissue structuring privacy-regulation
This is about the social relationships that exist between various social entities. The
observation of privacy in existing settlements focuses on densities, physical
distances, global direction and dimensioning of both constructed and open spaces,
screens, limits, and transition points, which act as the tissue's privacy-regulating
systems.
2.3 THE URBAN BLOCK (HAUSSMANNIEN PARIS: 1853-82)
The study of the Haussmannien block aims to provide knowledge and

understanding of the urban block in general. Haussmann was responsible for the
renovation of Paris under the rule of emperor Napoleon III. Prior to Haussmann's
rehabilitation and urban expansion of Paris, similar to the situation in England,
there was a desperate need for cleanliness and sophisticated infrastructure between
1853 and 1870. Napoleon III entrusted Haussmann as the principal architect and
administrator to alter Paris and reinvent it as one of the world's leading commercial
capitals.
Haussmann created a city that called for new structural elements. He destroyed tight
meandering lanes dotted with cozy medieval dwellings and replaced them with
straight broad boulevards and avenues lined with block after block of sober,
magnificent stone apartment buildings that reshaped and unified Paris's look. New
parks and squares, kiosks, street lighting, the lavish Palais Garnier opera theatre,
and the city's water and drainage system were also included in the makeover.
Haussmann carved into Paris, introducing new structural components such as
boulevards and avenues in an effort to make the city cleaner and safer for the
bourgeoisie, the dominant class in Paris at the time. Haussmann’s city experienced
a major structural change to become a planned city. The concept of route was
altered, allowing for the diversification and multiplication of distributive functions
in a complex setting with effective distribution of people, food, water, and goods.
The identification of a hierarchy was established by the road network and by the
facilities that it distributed. The setting up of these complex mechanisms
emphasized the differences that supported an ideology of separation, the practice of
zoning
(Panerai, 2004)
2.3.1 Characteristics of Haussmannien block

2.3.1.1 The morphology
The block produced by the cutting of the star plan grids of the Haussmannien
networks which was almost inevitably a triangular slice across the traditional Paris
block, which usually was rectangular. The block was constructed in plots, one by
one; in general, the steady growth of the structures followed a set of principles.
The dimensions of the triangular block, which is the most common, were varied
and seem to exclude the definition of an optimal building envelope. Inequalities
were created by the triangle outline. There were clearly some sharp angles that
were tough to work with, particularly in flat layouts. This made all plots to be
different and plots had varied, even unusual shapes which are sometimes very
acute to a V and trapezoidal forms and through combinations of these, sometimes
resulting in complicated polygons.
The subdivision of the blocks into plots followed rules dictated by the form of the
triangular blocks which were:
- Each plot is carefully laid out so that it is perpendicular to the street
- The central dividing line in the interior of the block is the bisector of the
acute angle formed by the streets (in the case of corners of the triangular
blocks), a median line that accommodates the geometrical irregularities.
- Excluding the deep plots which are aligned along the street, each plot is
of around the same proportion.
2.3.1.2 The arrangement of the built form

The coordinated plan of the Pereire-Laugier-Farday-Bayen block went hand in hand
with careful location of the buildings. The subdivision of the plots was determined
by the future configuration of the built-up areas and not vice versa.
There were only six main courtyards of the same size and shape for the seventeen
plots. Courtyards were shared by three or four plots. Some ventilation wells were
installed in the buildings' interiors and were linked together. pairs, overlapping on
the plots' edges as a result, the block was a single unit in which courtyards had been
created. The unit was formed by the joining of identical elements. The basic shape
was an L-shaped structure, which was used even for small buildings plots. Two L's
form a U or a T, which was appropriate for large plots. A in the corners because of
the extra thickness of one of the sides, the L was slightly modified. The courtyards
would always be associated with four-by-four dimensions. The strips were 12
meters long and 12 meters wide.
The need to maximize the profitability of the ground led to plots that were
diminutive in relation to the building types and could no longer be regarded as an
equal number of single units. The collective space of the courtyard did not relate to
the unit, the plot or the block. Above all, this floating collective space had lost its
capacity to identify with a single plot because, at the same time, its usefulness as a
private space had disappeared. On the ground floor a wall, often a forbidding
aspect, continued to separate the buildings, but at the upper level, the volume of the
courtyard was common.
Others who had no direct relationship with it overlooked it because they had no
access from the side of the courtyard. There were no longer any private areas. The
plot's depth had dwindled, and the sequence of spaces leading to the interior had
been shortened. The necessity of densification subjected the courtyard's interior
space to two of the characteristics where the street's public space was governed by
the clarity of a rule.
The courtyard was carefully maintained so that it did not become a dumping ground
for objects, vehicles, or activities that degraded its quality.
The sequence of internal spaces had been truncated but a minimal hierarchy of
places remained. A second courtyard sometimes followed the first one and this was
accessible only from one of the ground-floor flats or by a service entrance.
(Panerai, 2004)p.24)
2.3.1.3 The capacity for accommodating a range of functions
The subdivision of the block as it appears to us now must be compared with the
traditional Parisian block in order to better measure the effects of the reduction that
had been carried out. The block in its entirety, was divided into an edge and an
interior. The dense edge was directly connected to the street, understood as a place
for exchange as well as a presentation space governed by rules. The block's interior,
on the other hand, was a mess zone separated from the street that possessed the
characteristics of a space that was not always visible, and it served no purpose in
terms of public representation. It was malleable and transformable, with some loose
rules that contrasted with the strict rules on display in public. It was made available
for private appropriation. (Panerai, 2004)p.25
The opposition within the block between the perimeter and the interior allowed for
an organization of the tissue's complexity. The hierarchy towards the block's
interior frequently occurred in a sequential order. The complex was entirely
dependent on the status of the streets that surrounded it, based on their position in
the city or district's hierarchy, which gave each front a distinct meaning.
Multifunctionality is not considered at the block, building type, or city levels. The
workplace was excluded from the private residential block in the Haussmannien
city. Some districts were highly specialized. In Paris, industry was done in small
batches. workshops that kept the old grid structure alive when was the
Haussmannien block built. In comparison to the old block, it served as a thickened-
up perimeter. What started to the interior of the Haussmannien block, with its
functional elements, vanished with its properties, as well as the depth of its
articulation. (Panerai, 2004)p.27
2.3.1.4 The block in the urban combination
The city was viewed as a series of blocks. Despite their differences, the
Haussmannien and pre-Haussmannien blocks were compatible. The rigorous
continuity of the urban landscape, characterized by uninterrupted rows of facades
on both sides of the streets and thus an eminently urban image, attested to this. This
image was simplified but meaning was reduced, as was typical of the old urban
landscape. The gaps between the subdivided blocks were quickly filled. The public
space was rigorously enclosed by the line of facades and it was carefully contained
by a well-defined wall enclosure. All public space including streets became
monumental. The whole urban space was homogenized. Since the Haussmannien
block was not capable internally of incorporating a variety of functions, one can
observe that some single-function blocks appeared. These were principally for
facilities and monuments. The block containing public facilities had a tendency to
become an isolated building. The ile de la cite is an example with monument blocks
like the courts, the police headquarters, the Hotel-Dieu and Notre-Dame.
2.4 URBAN MORPHOLOGICAL TRANSFORMATIONS
Morphological transformations in this research context refers to the changes in the

urban fabric and form that are taking place, emerging typologies of buildings and
their effect on the skyline of the area, changes in street structures and functional
operation of the built form in the context of Utawala. The transformations that take
place within urban forms or morphological transformations can be understood fully
through an urban morphological analysis.
Through this analysis the, present and past historical patterns of urban structure,
form land use and patterns. It also provides an understanding of the physical form
and structure of the urban environment at different scales ranging from individual
buildings, street patterns, plots and blocks.
2.4.1 Morphological Elements
Conzen (Conzen, 1960) considered land uses, building structures, street pattern and
plot pattern to be the most important key elements in settlements. The difference in
these elements' stability buildings and particularly and the land uses they
accommodate are the least resilient. The plot pattern evolves over time as
individual plots are subdivided or combined, despite being longer-lasting. The
street plan typically stands the test of time the best. Its status as a capital asset that
is carefully guarded contributes to its stability; from structures of ownership; and in
particular, from the challenges of organizing and bringing about large-scale change.
2.4.1.1 Land uses
Land uses are relatively temporary compared to buildings, plot divisions and street
patterns. Changes to land uses include both new uses coming in and existing uses
moving to other areas. Incoming uses often lead through redevelopment and
creation of new buildings, plot amalgamations or sub divisions and changes in the
street pattern.
Displaced land uses are more likely to relocate to existing buildings in older areas,
then adapt and convert them rather than redevelop them.
2.4.1.2 Building Structures
According Conzen (Conzen, 1960) there has often been a recognizable cycle of
building development on each plot especially in England where this process has
been described in terms of the transformation of burgage plots, which started out as
long narrow fields laid out perpendicular to a street or circulation route.
Moudon’s ( (Moudon A. , 1986) comprehensive study on San Francisco Alamo

square neighborhood, details the evolution of block, lot and building patterns, as
plot owners exploited frontage onto the surrounding streets, many grid
developments began with outward facing perimeter block development with
subsequent organic/incremental development extending into the heart of the block.
According (Tipple, 1991) transformations in buildings may be carried on ana
individual building or a building together with its plot on which it stands.
2.4.1.3 The plot patterns
Cadastral units (urban blocks) are typically subdivided into plots or lots. This may
be back-to-back plots each having a frontage onto a main street or circulation route
and a shared common plot boundary at the rear. Plots may also face onto main
streets at the front with service alleys at the rear. Plots that are "through" and have a
frontage on a main street at each end are less common. Boundaries can shift over
time as plots are bought and sold. It is possible to divide large plots into smaller
ones or combine several of them to make room for bigger buildings sch shopping
centers in central areas. Most evidences of earlier forms are done with due to plot
and block amalgamations. However, plot patterns change less quickly than
buildings which change more rapidly.
2.4.1.4 The Cadastral/ street pattern

Cadastral pattern is the layout of urban blocks and public space channels or
network. The space between the blocks can be considered to be the public space
network. Permeability is established by the cadastral pattern. This is the measure of
opportunity for movement. Cadastral patterns are sometimes characterized by
process of change, where the current uses overwrite, but do not completely erase
the marks of earlier usage as a result ground plan of most settlements can be seen as
a series of overlays from different times.
2.4.1.5 Transformation of additional spatial characteristics
When change occurs in any physical environment, it affects more than just the
structures. The textures of floors or facades, street lighting, a specific odor or
sound, plants, walls, flora, topography, and skylines along streets or in other parts
of the city are examples of these features. Because these traits are critical in
boosting the spatial qualities of a certain scene, any alterations to them may have an
impact on the image's quality and, ultimately, legibility. These are also considered
in this study.
2.5 THE PERCEPTUAL DIMENSION

Lynch (1960) analyzed the effects of physical, perceptible objects, and from this the
five elements of the urban environment were derived. In his theory he does not
explain all other influences of an urban environment on imageability, such as social
meaning, functionality, tradition, and names
2.5.1 Paths
These are the channels along which the observer customarily, occasionally, or
potentially moves, they may be streets, walkways, transit lines, canals, railroads.
2.5.2 Edges
These are the linear elements that the observer does not use or consider to be paths;
they are the boundaries between two paths, linear breaks in continuity: shores,
railroad cuts, development edges, and walls.
2.5.3 Districts
These are the medium-to-large sections of the city, conceived of as having a two-
dimensional extent, that the observer mentally enters 'inside of,' and that are
recognizable as having some common, identifying characteristics.
2.5.4 Nodes
These are the strategic points in a city into which an observer can enter and from
which he is traveling; they may be primarily junctions, places of a break in
transportation, a crossing or convergence of paths, or moments of transition from

one structure to another.
2.5.5 Landmarks
These are another type of point-reference, but the observer does not enter them;
they are external, and they are usually a fairly simple physical object: Some
landmarks are distant ones, typically seen from many angles and distances, over the
tops of smaller elements, and used as radial references.
In summary districts are built with nodes, defined by edges, traversed by paths, and
dotted with landmarks.
2.6 THE MSSING LINK
Theories discussed in the case of countries in Europe and cities in America are not
applicable and relevant to many developing cities in the world which are still going
through a transitional period.
According to (Anyamba, 2006) he argues that 1980’s neo-liberal theories have
negatively impacted many third world urban settlements since it leads to
inappropriate application of Western theoretical urban theories to the non-western
urban world.
In summary, the analysis of the theories of the western cities must be undertaken
and applied to the context of the developed western cities and countries and they
should be different from those of the developing world.
2.6.1 Africa’s urban history
(Moshi, 2009) states that history demonstrates that the colonial African city was
essentially a space of competing interests between colonizers and native
populations in and around (Anyumba, 1995) the cities. This conflict between
different interest groups explains the spatial patterns and morphology of these
cities.
(Freund, 2007)contributes significantly to a better understanding of African urban
history He investigates a wide range of problems, from the origins of urban
existence to how African cities now deal with adversity. Freund's approach delves
into a variety of topics, including continuity and change, expansion and decline,
town and rural, parasitism and exploitation, pre-modern and modern, and African
and European. Freund presents an evolutionary narrative of the emergence of
African urban life from the perspective of an economic historian.
Africa grew increasingly involved in global trade from the fifteenth century until
European imperialism in the late nineteenth century. Commerce had a significant
impact on towns, resulting in their gradual rise and commercialization. Towns were
hubs in trade networks, and the flows of products, people, and income altered them.
Older urban forms, on the other hand, were not necessarily eliminated by new
commerce-related growth. Furthermore, expansion was not unavoidable, and some
towns went out of business.
(Freund, 2007) believes that the African city will continue to thrive and expand; it
will continue to be vibrant, and it will increasingly be the place where African
futures are decided.
According to (Freund, 2007) reasoning, the following is clear: as the future of the
African city becomes increasingly uncertain, more knowledge is required to unravel
what appears to be a mystery at the moment. Because there are no comparable
models to learn from, there is a need to improve understanding of the relationships,
processes, and effects of the change from morphological perspectives. While
Freund paints a vivid historical image of the colonial African metropolis, he fails to
identify the urban and architectural forms that were constructed.
As a result, a deeper comprehension of the forms and buildings produced merits
more attention for a better understanding of the whole growth of the African
metropolis. Similarly, it may describe the potentials and limitations of future
transformations.
2.6.2 Literature on urban forms in African cities
(Moshi, 2009) Contributes to urban transformation in the African environment. He

focuses on how and why Dar es Salaam's inherited colonial city center, particularly
Kariakoo, has altered in the post-colonial period. The thesis focuses on the
alteration of urban form through the development of a building unique to Kariakoo.
(Moshi, 2009) states that understanding urban transformation phenomenon, three

theories need to be investigated and analyzed which include urban morphology,
socio economic development of the city and the transformation of African cities in
general.
(Lupala, 2002)In an attempt to identify and classify urban kinds, offers a systematic
approach to class identification and categorization. Lupala bases his method on
Rapoport (1990), who contends that because it is impossible to talk about or deal
with wholes, they must be dismantled and decomposed (before reassembling).
(Anyumba, 1995) identifies the reasons for Kisumu's physical forms and environs
were part of a collection of hypotheses known as "the theory of the colonial
metropolis." He also defines the colonial city as a separate urban typology. He
mainly studies the structure and the town’s-built forms. (Anyumba, 1995) based his
study on three major parts, the urban, the sector and the unit.
(Anyumba, 1995)describes the urban (or town) level as a level that is concentrated
on the social, physical and spatial development overtime of an individual city, the
sector emphasized the intra-urban relationships and the individual characteristics of
those distinct sectors of the urban area and the unit focused on the individual built
forms which are technology and culture specific and respond to the requirements
for shelter.
(Loeckx A. , 1989) looks at different scales that are frequently used in his study on
Architecture of a city in development; the city, the city segment, the neighborhood,
the neighborhood segment, the dwelling group and the dwelling level. His
adaptation of the tissue method, projects the built environment as a morphological
interviewing of open spaces and built form.
The main objective of this study is to study the concept of urban transformation in
Utawala therefore dismantling the settlement into sections of similar characteristics
and analyzing the various dismantled parts in order to understand the variations.
Based on the theories discussed by (Anyumba, 1995) the urban (or town) level
concentrates on the physical and spatial development overtime of Utawala. The
sector will focus on a particular sampled block in Utawala while the unit focus on
the individual-built forms.
2.6.3 Literature on Urban forms in Nairobi
(Anyamba, 2006) discusses that Nairobi is characterized by formal and informal

settlements. He further discusses that informal settlements are classified into three
categories; the squatter settlements, unauthorized land developments (illegal
subdivisions) and illegal transformations of formal housing through extensions and

alterations by inhabitants without formal permission.
(Makachia, 2005) studies dweller initiated transformations and in his studies on
housing transformations he analyzed the typological transformations at household
level. He emphasizes that individual-built form’s elements transform in terms of
form, function and spatial layout where all these measures are aimed at increasing
the net floor area of the individual-built form.
(Anyamba, 2006) mentions that transformations in built forms occur through
additions and altering the existing building or demolishing old buildings for
developing new buildings.
(Anyamba T. T., 2004) mentions that transformations start at a household level and
progress to affect the whole neighborhood where individual house owners extend
their houses with no consideration to planning regulations which were used to plan
the neighborhood.
2.7 Urban transformation and Sustainable development
The increasing attention of urban areas, their growth and sustainability has reached
the international political and economic agenda over the last few decades. The role
of cities in the global economic development, social and environmental conditions
has gained more attention. (WWF, 2010)
(Egercioglu, 2016) Summarizes urban transformation as the action of providing a

permanent solution to the economical, physical, social and environmental problems
in a comprehensive manner for an altered urban area while sustainable development
refers to development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Sustainable urban transformation therefore refers to structural transformation
processes - multi -dimensional and radical change, that can effectively direct urban
development towards the sustainable goals.
Majority of population currently live in cities and urban areas and over 70% of the
global population are expected to live in urban areas by 2050 (Habitat, 2008). The
importance of cities is also expected to increase due to the role of metropolitan
areas as growth centres of the emerging global service economy. (Mc Cormick,
Anderberg, Coenen, & Neij, 2013) This therefore emphasizes that policies
formulated by international bodies and national governments need to be
implemented at the community, city and regional levels. Cities and urban areas are
often associated with social and economic problems such as poverty and
segregation, tension between different groups and economic vulnerability, as well
as ecological problems related to pollution, resource use, congestion and spatial
competition (Legner, 2010). They are also connected with economic and cultural
wealth, and a dynamic development that can provide opportunities for
technological, organizational and social innovation (Sukhdev, 2009). The
increasing quantity and intensity of activities at the city level around urban
development and sustainability can have the potential for disruptive socio-technical
change diffusing into the society. This therefore has made, cities to be identified as
a key for sustainable development and climate change and therefore an agreement
has been agreed that effective and integrated solutions can only be formed and
implemented through cities and urban areas. (Mc Cormick, Anderberg, Coenen, &
Neij, 2013) It is important to also note that cities and municipalities are not isolated
entities which exist on their own. They are rather interconnected in a complex
manner like the global economy and they can be catalysts for change at wider
scales (Theaker, 2001)
Local governments help in forming smaller networks which help in reduction of
greenhouse gas emissions, use of energy and resources more efficiently and
improve resilience and sustainability. The concentration of population, activities
and resource use in cities brings potentials for important efficiency increase as well
as for multi-purpose solutions by combining different sustainability goals
(Bettencourt, 2011)
Globally, cities have significantly different starting places and conditions for
sustainable growth. Poverty, overcrowding, unsuitable living conditions,
insufficient infrastructure, hygienic issues, poor water quality and uncontrolled
pollution are some of the issues that continue to plague cities in the developing
world, notably in Africa (Habitat, State of the World’s Cities 2010/2011, 2010)
However, many of these issues have diminished in cities throughout Europe, North
America, and Oceania during the twentieth century. This is primarily due to more
consistent and evenly distributed economic growth, better organization, town

planning, and investment in infrastructure, construction, and urban revitalization. A
similar trend has been observed in regions of South America and Asia. Today's
urban sustainability issues in Europe primarily consist of segregation and growing
social tensions, local traffic problems, continuous growth in solid waste generation,
and large and often inefficient consumption of energy and materials with links to
climate change and the global environmental and resource distribution.
Urban sustainability issues are not inherent qualities of urbanization, but rather the
outcome of bad administration and planning. (Rode, 2011) The design of cities
plays an important role in relation to the (positive & negative impacts ) of urban
development and how the urban population interact together. (Mc Cormick,
Anderberg, Coenen, & Neij, 2013)
Diverse transformation processes constantly influence cities, including changing
population, economy, culture, habits, and national policies, which can result in
altered urban roles as well as new local requirements and opportunities. (Habitat,
State of the World’s Cities 2010/2011, 2010).
Interpreting these many growth processes, responding to associated demands, and
discovering and realizing opportunities are all ongoing difficulties for urban
administration and planning. Cities are influenced in a variety of ways by large-
scale transformation processes, although their vulnerability and opportunity may
vary depending to internal elements such as local economic structure, as well as
external relations and geographic position. (Mc Cormick, Anderberg, Coenen, &
Neij, 2013)
There are at least two key "breaks" in city growth that are notably significant when
considering urban change (Lehmann, 2010). The first is the advent of the
automobile at the turn of the twentieth century, which resulted in a city model
devoted to meeting the role of automobiles. This led in expanding cities and urban
sprawl, as well as a slew of other effects on how we live in and experience cities.
The second is the growing understanding of the effects of climate change and its
impact on urban planning and design, particularly in terms of adaptation and
resilience, but also in terms of making significant reductions in greenhouse gas
emissions. (Mc Cormick, Anderberg, Coenen, & Neij, 2013). All these factors
shape how districts and the infrastructure in the city are being designed and
development.
Economic transformation frequently creates opportunities that can be used
creatively to advance sustainable development. The industrial revolution in Europe
brought about a long stagnant period. Major cities in Europe and North America
experienced renewed growth and restructuring of the developments and
revitalization of inner-city parts after this stagnation period. Building and
neighborhood revitalization also creates opportunity for public space development
and social inclusion. Approaches to economic development in many cities have
piqued interest in recent years, and cities are being emphasized as successful
growth engines. (Wheeler, 2010)
In summary sustainable urban transformation is about creating areas that promote

stimulating economic development and sustainable urban areas which engage
excite and attract people towards opportunities.
2.7.1 Sustainable urban structures
Sustainable urban structures encompass resource management and climate

mitigation and adaptation, transport and accessibility, buildings and spatial
environment and public spaces.
2.7.1.1 Resource management and climate mitigation and adaptation
Cities have crucial problems in terms of resource management and the design of
urban structures that mitigate and adapt to climate change. Multifunctional urban
systems must be capable of integrating ecological, economic, recreational and
aesthetic elements. (WWF, 2010)
Shifting urban energy systems to renewable sources, enhancing energy and material
efficiency, assuring sustainable management of water quality and sufficiency, and
changing waste management into sustainable material and energy consumption are
key factors. (Hawkey, 2013)
In relation to the study area, there has been a challenge in integration of ecological,
economic, recreational and aesthetic values. Considering the key areas in relation to
Utawala, shifting towards renewable sources of energy has not yet been achieved
and this reflects to poor material efficiency and increase in non-renewable sources.
The quality and sufficiency of water supply is poor. Most of the areas do not
receive clean water which is being supplied by the county government. Most of the
plots in the area have dug boreholes in order to get water while others get water
from cartels who deliver them using carts. This therefore means that there is poor
governance in ensuring sustainable management of the quality and sufficiency of
water supply. In terms of transformation of waste management into sustainable
material and energy use, the area lacks proper waste management resources where
the waste can be transformed into sustainable material and energy usage. Solid
waste which can be recycled is collected by the county council and taken to the
Dandora dump site for sorting and burning. Solid waste is also dumped along roads
and alleys since the collection method of the waste is not sufficient.
2.7.1.2 Transport and accessibility
The transportation industry has a substantial environmental and social impact.

Sustainable urban transport research and practice has concentrated on specific
concerns such as pollution, road safety and on various measures and their impacts.
However, in order to achieve sustainable mobility in cities, a more integrated
approach that tackles energy security, environmental and social implications,

accessibility difficulties, urban circumstances, and equitable economic development
is required. (Sukhdev, 2009)
Sustainable transport does not rely on world’s natural resources like coal, oil and
gas rather the use of public (electric buses, trains, trams) and private (bikes, electric
cars and pedestrian movement)
With regards to Utawala as, the construction and the recent expansion of the
Eastern by-pass highway there has been increase in traffic on this route. In addition,
the rapid urbanization of Utawala has made the area a heavy car-oriented area with
more people relying on individual(private) transportation and the few who do not
afford private cars using public buses. With this, air pollution increases and
therefore air quality reduces which is detrimental to the environment and the quality
of life of the people living in the area. Sustainable urban transport also focuses on
the pedestrian safety and road safety. There is little consideration given to
pedestrian safety and road safety with the road main Eastern by pass highway
lacking pedestrian crossing points. Pedestrian paths are also crowded with
displayed products of various commercial establishments along the road.
With transport sector contributing close to 27% of all greenhouse gas emissions
globally through congestion, it is important to consider land-use planning as well as
improving the efficiency of the transport. This also includes ensuring the needs of
the car user and that of the pedestrians are met. The citizens should have an option
to choose freely from multiple modes of transport.
2.7.1.3 Governance and planning
To achieve ambitious aims for sustainable cities, diverse techniques such as

effective strategic planning, integration of policy tools, and "genuine" participation
of key stakeholders must be studied and practiced. Such activities should be
coordinated across sectors and tailored to unique urban and national policy contexts
to ensure the empowerment, participation, and collaboration of relevant
stakeholders.
The three key policy challenges that have been identified are: policies must be
ambitious but politically and economically realistic in deciding on appropriate
balances; policies must be developed quickly and with flexibility for rapidly
changing urban conditions; and it is critical to eliminate contradictory policies.
(Bugliarello, 2010).
2.7.1.4 Spatial environment and public space
Urban development and planning focus on the spatial environment with much
consideration placed on revitalization of districts and city centres, urban public
spaces and the interconnection of fragmented urban landscapes. (Roseland,
1997)This results in a continuous connection of humane living within the urban
layout.
This includes conserving existing "green" places (like parks and gardens) and
"blue" elements (like ponds and canals) as well as incorporating new "green" and
"blue" buildings into cities in novel ways that promote healthy surroundings and
social connections. The significance of public space and social interactions in long-
term urban change merits additional consideration.
2.7.1.5 Buildings
The building and construction sector is faced with a challenge of creating

affordable attractive efficient, comfortable and sustainable buildings which will
contribute in helping the occupants of the buildings mitigate contributions to
climate change, utilize and incorporate renewable source of energy in their
buildings, reduce excessive material consumption during construction and
incorporate principles of re-use.
The efficiency of the proposed strategies requires an understanding of human
consumption of resources and behavior in the context of the spatial and built
environment
2.7.2 Green economy
A green economy can be thought of one that is low carbon, resource efficient and
socially inclusive. This results in improved well-being of humans and social
equality while equally reducing environmental risks and ecological problems. A

green economy is responsible for supporting sustainable development and more
importantly align economic goals to social and environmental goals. This can be
realized by recognizing potential sustainable technologies and green sectors which
will become pillars of a greater development path.
The green economy has two main pillars which are related to it which include the
circular economy and the bioeconomy.
2.7.2.1 Circular economy
The circular economy focuses on minimization of waste through resource

efficiency, reusing and recycling. The core of this concept is a closed loop system
in which all raw materials are re-used as a response to the growing resource scarcity
and emerging waste management challenges. The circular economy should be able
to support the transformation and development of the industry and infrastructure
towards sustainable consumption and production.
2.7.2.2 Bioeconomy
The bioeconomy focuses on biological resources, such as agricultural, forestry and

fisheries. It gives emphasis on how to transition towards a sustainable use of
renewable biological resources as materials and bio energy. Adoption of
bioeconomic strategy in 2012 by the European commission, focused on innovating

and technology development.
In summary the bioeconomy can be seen as addressing the biomass – based sectors
of a green economy, while the circular economy is concerned with abiotic- based
sectors of a green economy such as industry and manufacturing. ((UNEP), 2012)
2.7.3 Relation between green economy and sustainable urban transformation
The green urban economy and sustainable urban transformation are overlapping
concepts where the green economy is considered an integrated part of the broader
transformation of cities and urban areas towards sustainability. Urban centres
continue to grow and cities play an important role in consumption, production and
pollution of these centres. The significance of urban regions as growth centers of
the rising globalizing service economy is predicted to boost the importance of cities
(Mc Cormick, Anderberg, Coenen, & Neij, 2013)
Policies formulated by international bodies and national governments need to be
implemented at the community and city level (Roseland, 1997)
Economic transformation provides opportunities that can be innovatively used for
furthering sustainable
development. After a long stagnation due to an often-dramatic industrial
restructuring, many major cities in Europe and North America have experienced
renewed growth related to development of a profitable service economy, and
related revitalization of inner city and harbor areas. Revitalization of older housing
or former harbor and industrial areas can be used for creating attractive city areas,
realizing the enormous potential for energy savings within cities, and developing
distributed energy systems. The revitalization of buildings and districts also opens
up opportunities for the development of public space and social inclusion. In recent
years, the approach of economic development in the urban setting has gained
attention, and cities are being highlighted as successful growth engines.
Furthermore, the political leadership in many cities are now actively working with
strategies to increase their attractiveness and competitiveness in the context of
sustainable development and the green economy (ICLEI, 2011).
2.7.4 Green economy principles
TYPE PRINCIPLES
Economic -Recognizes natural capital and values
-Integrated in economic development and
growth models
-Promotes resource and energy efficiency
- Creates decent work and green jobs
Environmental -Protects biodiversity and ecosystems

-Invests in and sustains natural capital

-Recognizes and respects planetary
boundaries and ecological limits
-Advances international environmental
sustainability goals
Social -Is socially inclusive, democratic,
participatory, accountable transparent and
stable
-Is equitable, fair and just between and
within countries and between generations.
2.7.5 Drivers of change
Governance and planning, innovation and competitiveness, and lifestyle and

consumption are among the change drivers (or processes) portrayed in the
framework for sustainable urban transformation.
Here are some brief descriptions of these important factors and their
interrelationships.
2.7.5.1 Governance and planning

To meet ambitious aims for sustainable cities, several solutions, including good
strategic planning and policy instrument integration, must be studied and
implemented. Such activities should be coordinated across sectors and tailored to
unique urban and national policy contexts to ensure the empowerment,
participation, and collaboration of relevant stakeholders.
(Bugliarello, 2010)identifies three key policy challenges: policies must be
ambitious but politically and economically realistic in deciding on appropriate
balances; policies must be developed quickly and with flexibility for rapidly
changing urban conditions; and it is imperative to eliminate contradictory policies.
2.7.5.2 Innovation and competitiveness
Cities and local governments must make "difficult" decisions to balance economic
expansion with the preservation or restoration of the local and global ecology.
(Wheeler, 2010) Innovation and clean technology are necessary for sustainable
development and also important factors in enforcing urban competitiveness in the
global economy at large. Sustainable urban economic development is an important
area of research, with a focus on how to encourage symbiotic relationships between
industries, governments, and universities to ensure sustainable management of
human, ecological, and economic capital, and to transform density and urban
systems into eco-efficiency. (Bhagavatula, 2013)
2.7.5.3 Lifestyle and consumption
Socio-economic and cultural development in the urban environment are important

factors that need to be considered and developed to support the planning and
implementation of sustainable urban development policies. Equity and
sustainability are considered important pillars in creating harmony within cities
which brings prosperity in the respective cities. Improved quality of life and
creating visions of sustainable lifestyles is of vital importance to the design and
governance of more sustainable cities.
2.8 SYNTHESIS OF LITERATURE REVIEW
THEMATIC AREA Sources/ Issues discussed Sources/ Issues discussed Sources/ Issues discussed
1. Urban (Ernst et al. 2016) (Alev P. Bekdemir, 2011) (Egercioglu, 2016)
transformation
Definition Urban transformations are the describes urban transformation as entire describes urban transformation as
outcome of radical changes of strategies and actions used to improve the entire strategies and actions used to
dominant structures (e.g., economic, social, physical and improve the economic, social, physical
infrastructures, regulations), cultures environmental conditions of damaged and and environmental conditions of
(e.g., values) and practices (e.g., collapsed urban areas by comprehensive damaged and collapsed urban areas by
mobility behaviors) of such urban and integrated approaches comprehensive and integrated
(sub-)systems. As a result of these approaches
changes, what kind of and how
system functions are delivered is
fundamentally altered
Categories of Heritage conservation-based urban Urban transformation based on Redevelopment based on Urban
transformation transformation regeneration transformation
Factors of urban Population Urban economy Architectural design

transformation
Urban Rostow (1960) Northam (1979)

transformation Modernization theory Urbanization stage theory
process
2. The Morphological dimension (Loeckx A. , 1982)

-Interweaving of built-up and open spaces
-Hierarchy of scale
-Spatial articulation of functional themes
3. The Urban block (Panerai, 2004) Characteristics of the Haussmannien block

(Haussmannien Paris 1853-82) -The Morphology
-Arrangement of built form
- capacity to accommodate a wide range of functions
-block in the urban combination
4.Urban Morphological (Conzen, 1960) (Moudon A. , 1986) (Tipple, 1991)

transformations Morphological elements comprehensive study on San Francisco According to Tipple,1991) transformations in
-Land uses Alamo square neighborhood, details the buildings may be carried on ana individual
-Building structures evolution of block, lot and building building or a building together with its plot on
-Plot pattern patterns which it stands.
-Street patterns
-Other spatial qualities
5 The perceptual Dimension (Lynch, 1960)

Paths, Edges, Districts, Nodes, Landmarks
6. Africa’s Urban History (Moshi, 2009) (Freund, 2007)

states that history demonstrates that the colonial African city was Freund presents an evolutionary narrative of
essentially a space of competing interests between colonizers and the emergence of African urban life from the
native populations in and around the cities perspective of an economic historian.
7. Urban Forms in (Loeckx, 1989) (Anyumba, 1995) (Lupala, 2002) (Moshi, 2009)
African cities looks at different scales that are Identifies the reasons for In an attempt to identify and states that understanding
frequently used in his study on Kisumu's physical forms and classify urban kinds, offers a urban transformation
Architecture of a city in environs were part of a systematic approach to class phenomenon, three
development; the city, the city collection of hypotheses known identification and theories need to be
segment, the neighborhood, the as "the theory of the colonial categorization. Lupala bases investigated and analyzed
neighborhood segment, the metropolis. He mainly studies his method on Rapoport which include urban
dwelling group and the dwelling the structure and the town’s-built (1990), who contends that morphology, socio
level. His adaptation of the forms. (Anyumba, 1995) based because it is impossible to economic development of
tissue method, projects the built his study on three major parts, talk about or deal with the city and the
environment as a morphological the urban, the sector and the wholes, they must be transformation of African
interviewing of open spaces and unit. dismantled and decomposed cities in general.
built form. (before reassembling
8. Urban Forms in (Anyamba T.T, 2004) (Makachia,2005) (Anyamba,2006)

Nairobi Mentions that transformations studies dweller initiated transformations and Discusses that Nairobi is characterized by
start at a household level and in his studies on housing transformations he formal and informal settlements. He further
progress to affect the whole analyzed the typological transformations at discusses that informal settlements are
neighborhood where individual household level. He emphasizes that classified into three categories; the squatter
house owners extend their individual-built form’s elements transform in settlements, unauthorized land developments
houses with no consideration to terms of form, function and spatial layout (illegal subdivisions) and illegal
planning regulations which were where all these measures are aimed at transformations of formal housing through
used to plan the neighborhood. increasing the net floor area of the individual- extensions and alterations by inhabitants
built form. without formal permission.
2.9 THEORETICAL MODEL

URBAN FORM
Urban transformation The Morphological The Urban Urban Morphological Perceptual Sustainable The
Process Dimension block Transformations Dimension Urban missing
Transformation link
Modernization Stage (Loeckx A. , 1982) Haussmannien Morphological Paths Sustainable structures:

issues on form and Block (Paris) elements Edges resource management and
Urbanization Stage Land uses Districts climate mitigation and
tissue theory Built form Plot pattern Nodes adaptation, transport and
Built Form Landmarks accessibility, buildings and
Street Pattern
Functionality spatial environment and public
Buildings
spaces.
Green economy
History of Urbanism in
Literature on Urban forms in Nairobi Africa: Informal
Informalization, (Makachia, 2005) urbanism
Literature on Urban forms in African cities
typological transformations at household Theory of the colonial
(Moshi, 2009) Dar-es salaam’s Urban
levels (spatial, Layout form and function) city
transformation, Urban morphology, classification of
urban types
(Anyumba, 1995)Kisumu Theory of the colonial Drivers of change: Governance
city: Built forms, structure and physical space UTAWALA and planning, innovation and
Urban, sector and unit competitiveness, and lifestyle and
-Concept of transformation (Investigating consumption
emerging urban forms in Utawala
-Forces and effects of transformation
- Recommendations
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODS

3.0 INTRODUCTION
The objective of this chapter is to show the “what” and “how” transformation of
Utawala has occurred. This chapter also puts focus on the research design where
qualitative research design is employed and research methodology procedures used
in the study.
The research strategy will include research methods, research techniques for data
collection, data analysis which points out the instruments employed for selecting,
classifying and help to analyze the urban fabric and character of the built form in
Utawala.
Both primary and secondary methods of data collection were used to gather
relevant information from the study area. Case study method was the preferred
method for gathering data and documenting the transformation that is taking place
in Utawala
3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN

The purpose for having research design is to ensure the data collected on site
matches the research questions and research objectives developed
Research design is the blue print of research (Yin, 2002). It is the specification of
methods and procedure for acquiring the information needed for solving the
problem.
Research questions/objectives How, what reason and results
Relevant data Theoretical background on transformation and

urban forms, open- ended interviews,
observations and photography, measurement
and analysis of documents (maps, plans,
articles, and aerial photographs).
Unit of analysis Urban form; the urban block (plots, buildings,

land use and urban spaces (streets, squares and
open spaces.
Based on the blue print by (Yin 2002), the research design helps in addressing the
following problems:
What questions to study- The relevant actors, what are the transformations that
have occurred, impact of the transformations in Utawala
What data is relevant- Type of transformation, plot sizes, built form typologies,
typo morphological changes, zoning ordinances
What data to collect- Key transformations, time of plot acquisition, year of

construction, order of construction if incremental
Analyzing the data collected- Analysis is done using maps, charts
3.2 RESEARCH STRATEGY
The key research strategies employed in are Surveys and case studies. Using survey
method allows the researcher to obtain relevant data through use of interviews and
questionnaires. When analyzing the data gathered, quantitative analytical
techniques are then used to draw inferences from the data. Survey method allows
the researcher to study more variables on the chosen phenomena being measured.
The case study approach involves examining a phenomenon that exists in reality.
This method is also used by the researcher to cover contextual conditions which
may help the researcher during the study of the phenomena (.Yin, 2002).
The case study method requires multiple data collection methods where the results
are merged in order to establish the construct validity of the given subject. Direct
observation of phenomena and activities in their environment, indirect observation,
measurement of process related to the phenomena being investigated, interviews
(structured and unstructured), documentation such as written papers, printed or
electronic information and newspaper articles are some of the methods identified
during the case study approach. (.Yin, 2002)
RESEARCH STRATEGY STUDY PARAMETERS
Movement patterns of ancient origin, dominant
1. Surveys
axes of development in the area, dominant
Historical analysis
buildings of historical significance, focal points

of activity in the area.
Analysis of townscape
Legibility Districts, edges, Paths, Nodes and landmarks.

Accessibility and privacy
Street block patterns and how they define

Permeability
accessibility Street frontages
Three- dimensional public spaces, two-

Visual analysis
dimensional surfaces enclosing a public space,
study of architectural details which give an area
a unique character
2. Case studies
3.2.1 Survey Techniques
The survey techniques used in this study deals with the historical analysis which
entails analysis of past developments in the area and the second art deals with the
townscape analysis including urban legibility, permeability and visual analysis.
3.2.1.1 Historical analysis
Understanding the genius loci is a good starting point when beginning study of the
site. The sensitive perception of the spirit or nature of a place often provides the key
to charting the direction for future development. Peeling back the layers of history
which encrust the modern city reveals the reasons for its present form and function.
Knowing ‘how that which is came to be’ is a sound basis for future action (Cliff
Moughtin, 1999)
The analysis of Utawala and its history was done through analysis of recent
planning documents, in order to determine those policies that current affect
development on the site.
The historical analysis of Utawala was identified through: examination of form-

giving components of development in Utawala. This involves investigating the
dominant axes of development, determining dominant buildings of historical
significance, focal points of activity, movement patterns of ancient origin, change
of economic patterns, density of development, building conditions and their use.
The development patterns and zoning plans of functional areas of the site are also
looked at in relation to the changing modes of transport.
3.2.1.2 Townscape analysis
There are three main aspects of townscape analysis. The first concerns the legibility
of the urban structure, that is, the ways in which people perceive, understand and
react to the environment. It concerns those qualities of a place which give it an
immediate identity, one which is quickly perceived or grasped by its users. Lynch
(1960) demonstrated with his studies of mental mapping that a legible environment
is one that is capable of being structured by people into accurate images. With this
clear perceptual image of the city, the user can react to the environment more
effectively. (Cliff Moughtin, 1999) The second aspect of townscape analysis
concerns the permeability of the environment, that is, the choice it presents to the
user. The third aspect of the analysis, a visual study, conforms more closely to the
more traditional meaning of townscape, as used by Cullen following on from Site
and his disciples.10 The visual analysis includes studies of urban space, the
treatment of façades, pavement, roofline, street sculpture and an analysis of the
complexity of visual detail which distinguishes one place from another. (Cliff
Moughtin, 1999)
3.2.2 Case Study Research

Case study research method examines a phenomena in its natural setting especially
when the boundaries of the phenomena are not clearly defined. (.Yin, 2002) The
case study method allows the researcher to cover contextual conditions which may
help the researcher during the study of the phenomena being investigated (.Yin,
2002)
Case studies require multiple data collection methods whose results will converge
in order to establish construct validity. Direct observation of activities, phenomena
and their environment, indirect observation or measurement of process related to
the phenomena under study, interview (structured and unstructured), documentation
such as written, printed or electronic information and newspaper articles are some
of the methods used during data collection.
therefore, a generalized study does not create a deeper understanding of the

phenomenon under study. (Anyamba, 2006) It’s therefore necessary to concentrate
on fragments of the city in order to fully understand the transformations in a
planned area. The following factors were considered in order to identify the
building and plots to analyze the transformational analysis:
• Age of buildings- Time of construction

• Construction materials of the buildings
• Technology of construction
• Types and typologies- residential, commercial, institutional
• Transformational analysis- Gradual (Incremental), dramatic, materials,

changing architectural styles
3.2.2.1 Justification of the case study method
The case study method is a viable method of study due to the advantage of studying
the phenomena in its natural setting. Th researcher is able to ask “how” and “why”
questions so that the researcher can understand the nature and complexity of the
processes taking place. The main objective of the research is to get an in depth
understanding of the causes and effects of transformations, therefore the case study
method is the most applicable method to study and document the transformations.
3.3 DATA COLLECTION METHODS AND RECORDING

TECHNIQUES
The approach used for data collection used in this study includes both quantitative
sources and qualitative sources. Other methods of data collection involved open
ended interviews, observations, measurements and analysis of documents and
drawings and aerial photographs
The data collection in this study was done in three main phases, the first phase was
a study of urban forms at the fragment level of Utawala, the second phase was ana
analysis of urban forms at a block level where land uses, building structures,
detailed measurements of houses, plots and spaces within the sampled area,
identification classification and use of spaces were also carried out. The third phase
involved an analysis of urban forms at a building level.
3.3.1 Observation
Observation is the systematic noting and recording of events, behavior and objects
in the social setting chosen for study. (Marshall, 1989)
Observation was employed as a primary method to study emerging built forms, the
current state of existing built forms, building uses, plot configuration, plot
characteristics and spaces uses. Observed built form variables include: building
typology, number of storeys, roof type, building materials, size and entrance to
buildings. Other variables studied included treatment of frontages, exposure, plot
setbacks, distance between buildings, accessibility, use of the immediate outdoor
spaces, configuration of spaces, diversity of activities that take place within the
space
In summary observation was used to in order to get the following information:
• Document the existing situation at hand.
• Mapping the transformation through identifying the key changes of the built
forms
• Demographic study- use, current users, change of user/user typological
changes.
3.3.2 Physical Measurements
Building and plot measurements were conducted in the sampled block. Measured
quantities included plot width, depth and setbacks. Results from building and plot
measurements provided a basis for the analysis of buildings and plot sizes, plot
dimensions, plot ratio, plot coverage and usability of spaces at plot level.
3.3.3 Photography
The aerial photograph, aerial perspective and aerial axonometric photographs

proved to be useful techniques for spatial analysis. Aerial photographs showed the
relationship of the building forms to the surrounding public and private open spaces
at a given time. A time series of aerial photographs gave relevant information and
insight on past and recent developments. The aerial photographs of the area were
used to compare the current morphology of the area and the original as planned.
Photographs were also used to show different aspects of the building such as
building materials, use of indoor and outdoor spaces, solid waste management,
public spaces utilization and road encroachment. These photos were taken and
analyzed at different periods to show the transformation that occurred.
3.3.4 Analysis of maps and plans

Maps and plans were useful in providing information on the building types, forms,
plot layout and configurations, floor area ratios and setbacks. The maps and plans
were used in calculation of plot sizes, plot ratios, house sizes, plot coverage, and
floor area ratio. Floor plans and elevations of the buildings were provided for
comparison with the original built forms and a comparison of variables such as
trends in building typologies were also explored by comparing maps of the same
area for two or more periods.
3.3.5 Interviews
Interviews are conducted as a method of data collection when the researcher

requires more information that was not available from physical observation. Semi-
structured interviews of key informants including the early settlers of the area
during the pre and post transformational era was conducted to help in gathering
knowledge on land use changes in the area, process of how people settled in the
area, plot allocations, development patterns, rules guiding the development of
buildings, definition of spaces (both public and private) existing levels of
infrastructure and recreational facilities in the area were documented for study.
3.3.6 Documentary sources
Newspaper clippings and other journals from the media, as well as formal studies or
evaluations of the research areas and administrative records are included in the
category of documentary evidence. (.Yin, 2002) An analysis of several literature

sources by Panerai et al., (2004), Carmona et al., (2003), Moudon (1997),Loeckx
(1982), Krier (1979), Conzen (1960), Lynch (1960), Zucker (1959) and Site (1889)
guided the study.
Other literature that was looked at include Moshi (2008), Freund (2007), Anyamba
(2006), Makachia (2005), Lupala (2002), Anyumba (1995) and Loeckx (1991
3.4 DATA ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION
Data Analysis is the examination, categorization, tabulation and testing of data to

address initial prepositions of the study (.Yin, 2002). A non-empirical analysis was
achieved through categorization of the data collected. The following variables were
applied for the particular study to form a basic mode for analysis
Site layout Building form
Analysis of immediate surrounding to

Analysis of the building’s geometry,
establish a relationship between built form
massing, technology used and building
circulation channels and arteries and open
elements used.
spaces and any other site features
Analysis of buildings orientation in relation
Analysis of placement of activities and
to the circulation channels, open spaces and
space usage through observation and
other buildings
conducting interviews to establish proper
interventions to deal with the current

challenges
The data collected was presented in form of photographs, sketches, tables, plans,
maps, computer aided design models and analytical conceptual diagrams for ease of
understanding and interpretation.
CHAPTER 4: STUDY AREA

INTRODUCTION
This chapter begins contextualizing Utawala. It provides a historical overview of

Utawala from a grazing filed to the present, identifies some of the earlier building
typologies in the area and investigates how the study area has transformed over the
years.
4.1 CONTEXT
Utawala is a ward located on the Eastern part of Nairobi in Embakasi North

Figure 4 1 Map of Nairobi showing location of Nairobi
Source; constituency in Nairobi County. Utawala lies approximately 22 km east of the
central business district (CBD) and covers a total area of about 2300 hectares.
Utawala lies along the Nairobi Eastern Bypass Highway and borders Mihango
constituency to the North, Ruai to the East and Machakos county to the South.
Administratively the area forms part of Embakasi North constituency.
Figure 4 2 Layout of Utawala

Source :JICA Maps
Kangundo road Utawala road
The topography of Utawala is generally flat but gently slops from East to West
towards Ruai ward. The topography of the area has influenced the growth of the
area which has an impact on the development of the area.
Figure 4 3 Utawala longitudinal terrain

Source: www. googleearth.com, 2022 4.1.1 PLANNING
Utawala falls within zone 10E of the Nairobi County government’s zoning map.
This zone is also comprised of Villa Franca and Imara Daima. Utawala zone is
categorized into a sub centre and residential area
Eastern by-pass highway GSU garrison
4.2 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW OF UTAWALA
An analysis of the historical background of Utawala has been carried out to provide
the base upon which morphological transformations have occurred the study
highlights the major changes in Utawala, with a focus on the 2008 where most
Figure 4 4 Utawala cross-sectional terrain changes started to occur in Utawala to the present.
Source: www. Google earth.com, 2022
Figure 4 5. Map showing Land use around Nairobi

Source: Nairobi Integrated Development Plan, NIUPLAN 2012
4.2.1 From a grazing field to a Residential area
Utawala started off as a grazing field for the traditional Maasai and Kamba
communities who used the area as a grazing land and linked them with the North of
Nairobi. The reason the area was a predominant grazing area for the Maasai was
that the North of Nairobi was wetter and more fertile than the South. During
droughts the Maasai would move with their animals to the North where the Eastern
Figure 4. 6 Map showing Utawala settlement in 2008
Source: Google Earth 2022 by pass currently is built to seek water and pasture. There were three rivers where
Satellite images of Utawala settlement before construction of the Eastern by-pass
highway (pre-construction stage) where it is a sparse residential settlement hemmed in by
the Maasai used to get water for their cattle which are: Nairobi River, the Gathara-
military installations and infrastructure.
ini river and the Kamiti river.
During the second world war, soldiers who came from Sarajevo mainly started
settling in the area after being settled there by the colonial government. At around
1948, the Kenya Administration Police Training School and the General Service
Unit Training School was built in the location hence getting the name “Utawala”
which is the Swahili term for Administration or Rule.
As recently as 2008, Utawala's residential settlement remained sparse, consisting of

single residential units on their own lots, and the primary entry into it was via dirt
Figure 4 7 Map of Utawala settlement in 2010 roads from Ruai, a municipality to the north east of Utawala. A tarmac road crossed
Source: Google Earth 2022
Satellite images showing Utawala settlement after construction of the Eastern by-pass within the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport fence and connected with the
had begun. The tarmacking of the highway and the construction of Kangundo road
overpass gives an indication of the transformation of the settlement from a peripheral Airport North Road near the Kenya Airways offices to provide access to the
low-lying residential area into an integral part of the Nairobi Metropolitan region.
administration police training school and the General Service Unit training school.
Beginning in 2008, a dirt road spanning from the Embakasi Garrison to Ruai
functioned as the principal route into the Utawala neighborhood and stood out as
the growth axis. When the Eastern Bypass was built, there was a burgeoning
residential area in Utawala and the neighboring Ruai neighborhood. With the
completion of the Eastern Bypass, this growth was redirected toward the new
Utawala ward and its current overpass at the Kangundo Road intersection.
Land in the area was owned privately and therefore it was sparsely populated with a
Figure 4 8 Map of Utawala settlement in 2013 lot of the land being grazing land and only small parts of the area had settlements.
Source: Google earth, 2022
The Utawala settlement has already aligned itself to the new Eastern by-pass highway.
Population in the area started to increase at around the year 2008, where there were
A growing commercial strip is beginning to establish itself and is being defined by the plots being bought in the area as it slowly converted to a low-lying residential area
new highway. At this point the settlement has started densifying and more people are
starting to buy plots in the area.
with most buildings being single storey.
The construction of the Eastern Bypass from Ruiru on the Thika Superhighway up
to City Cabanas on the Mombasa Highway triggered Utawala township's
spectacular expansion beginning in 2011. Prior to the construction of the Eastern
Bypass, a trip from Thika, Ruiru, or other communities to the north of Nairobi to
the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or any site on Mombasa Road beyond the
Airport required a link via the Outer Ring Road or connections through the city
center. The Eastern Bypass through Utawala avoids this complicated route and
Figure 4 9 Map of Utawala in 2017
Source: Google Earth, 2022 offers a less congested option for the trucks using Nairobi’s Industrial area to
The map shows Utawala settlement after the post-construction period of the Eastern
by-pass. Mixed use buildings, hotels, supermarkets and informal commercial activities supply their goods.
continue to populate the already established commercial strip along the Eastern by-
pass. Residential apartments continue to fill the other parts of Utawala settlement
4.2.2 Utawala in the 21st century 2011 to 2022
Utawala underwent major physical, social and cultural transformations. A sharp

increase in population and plot densities were observed in the area. A change in the
condition of the environment was also observed due to the increase in population
density and plot densities in the area.
4.2.2.1. Built forms
During this period, the urban fabric of the area had already started changing. There
Figure 4. 11 Image showing Hotel/lodging facilities (Christian D Hotel)
Source: Author, 2022 was a sharp increase in population in the area. The period saw commercial typology
blocks, high-rise and medium-rise apartment blocks followed by hotel/lodge
accommodation. Single Residential bungalows which were in their own lots also
increased in the area since more people started buying plots in Utawala. Along the
main road axis, there were single storey buildings which were mostly used as shops
at the front then residential units at the back while some had open spaces at the
back. Some of the single storey and double storey buildings still exist but have
undergone some modifications to fit the needs of their respective users. Some of the
single storey buildings have had floors added to them to accommodate more users
to the respective buildings. The physical appearance of the buildings in the area is
also transforming with the building owners playing a major role in the process.
Example of this transformations is shown in Figure…… The transformations
include; change in building façade, change in building elements and components
Figure 4 10 Image showing multi-storey apartment building (“emerging type”)
Source: Author, 2022
such as position of entrances, number of floors, roof design, size of openings and
windows, addition of building components on the outside like stairs and addition of
balconies.
The actual building line along the highway was irregular with many projections and
recesses on the buildings which defined the social spaces within them. The height
of the buildings and the different styles was also noted. Most of the buildings
Figure 4 12 Image showing shopping malls and supermarket (Quick Mart supermarket especially the emerging type buildings would build incrementally since
and Mashariki mall.)
Source: Author, 2022 construction was expensive. Building would be done in stages and use informal
means of construction where it was necessary. Most of the buildings done would
focus on the front façade in order to attract tenants.
The emerging type of building design was a category of buildings with more
contemporary design and more variety in their façade design. Most of the emerging
type buildings are medium rise buildings which are mostly five-six floors and low-
rise buildings going up to three floors. The uses of the various buildings were
residential, commercial, hotel and accommodation and some were mixed use
developments.
4.2.2.2. Land use

Figure 4 13 Image showing old type single storey building having undergone some
modifications
Source: Author, 2022 The major land uses in Utawala were residential, commercial, institutional and
religious uses. Most of the development along the Eastern by-pass highway are
commercial developments, hotel and accommodation and workshops. Commercial
activities were consisting of formal and informal commercial activities. This has
allowed for construction of multi-level commercial buildings and shopping plazas
in the area which spill over to some of the secondary streets like Utawala road,
Kigwathi road and Kibiku road including informal commercial activities along the
road. The Eastern by- pass is busy with both vehicular and pedestrian traffic since
it’s the main street connecting wards like Utawala to Embakasi to Ruai and Ruiru.
The GSU garrison which is the largest institution currently in Utawala, occupies the
right side of the road as you enter Utawala and it stretches up to Kibiku road
junction.
Kigwathi road, Kibiku road and Utawala road being the main secondary streets in
Utawala accommodated high-rise apartments which were having shops on the
lower floor and residential units on the upper floors. The Utawala-Githunguri road
which forms the border between Nairobi and Machakos county also accommodated
a mixture of residential units from high-rise apartments to maisonettes with few
informal commercial activities along the road.
4.2.2.3. Street Pattern
Before Utawala started transforming, the area had no clear street patterns to define
the area. Most of the land was unoccupied and the existing buildings around the
now Eastern by-pass highway were residential bungalows which were sparsely
populated around the area. There were major paths created to access the plots and
houses during this time. The paths were formed due to continuous use of the roads
by the residents to access their houses. These identified paths were not tarmacked.
After identification of the dirt road linking Embakasi and Kangundo road as the
main axis of development in the area, the road was tarmacked from Utawala to
Ruiru where it joins with the Thika super highway. After the tarmacking of the
Eastern by-pass road which was a two-lane single carriage road at around 2010, the
secondary streets around Utawala started being dominant. At around 2013, there
were more clear streets with more residents and developments forming along these
paths which were later tarmacked. The Eastern by-pass was the main street and
some of the secondary streets included, Utawala road, Kibiku road, Kigwathi road
and Fahari Kincar Road. Expansion of the highway to a dual carriage highway is
currently ongoing with a greater part within Utawala having been constructed
already. The expansion of the highway began in 2021 which was to help to ease up
traffic on the key road linking Mombasa Road to Thika highway
The irregular street pattern and layout of Utawala has created smaller streets which
link smaller settlements to each other and are often characterized by low traffic.
The smaller streets link to the secondary streets in the area which link to the main
street which is the Eastern by-pass highway.
The main street is characterized by informal activities on the road reserve. The road
reserve along the Eastern by-pass is used for several functions including; product
display, working, informal parking, temporary storage and transportation and
informal vending activities. Most of the commercial buildings along this highway
have constructed culverts by themselves to get traffic to their business and shop
fronts.
4.2.3. Transformation of other features of spatial qualities
Utawala become characterized by the construction of the Eastern by-pass highways.

This has brought about high volume of activities in Utawala and along this road.
Open spaces next to the highway and Infront of the buildings are characterized by
different activities which serve the local residents differently with some using it for;
display of their products, storage, stock drop-off and taking, parking, pedestrian use
and informal vending activities. High volume of activities along this road at
Utawala ward has made Utawala a major part of the greater metropolitan city.
Expansion of the Easter by-pass highway has helped to ease up traffic around this
area which receives a lot of traffic during the day. However, the pedestrians lack
properly designed paths to help them in their mobility. The area designated for
pedestrians has been occupied by parked cars and shops displaying their products
along the paths. During rainy seasons the paths become muddy with stagnant pools
of water forming while on dry seasons the paths are dusty. This is a characteristic in
the secondary streets around Utawala therefore indicating that the pedestrian has
been given little consideration.
Utawala is also characterized by lack of soft landscaping elements and street

furniture. This is because as the area is transforming and the expansion of the
highway little consideration is put to accommodate these elements on the main
street and other parts of Utawala.
4.3. DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS IN UTAWALA
4.3.1. Main axes of development
Most of the development and the change in morphology in Utawala takes place
along all the access and circulation routes but is dominant on the major route which
is the Eastern by-pass
4.3.1.1. Eastern by-pass highway

The Eastern by-pass highway is the primary distributor road in Utawala ward. It
accommodates various commercial activities and institutions like the GSU garrison,
a primary school, clinics, hotels and a hospital. The road is quite busy due to the
incoming and outgoing traffic of both vehicles and pedestrians. The Eastern by-pass
highway connects Utawala ward and other fragments like Embakasi, which links to
the CBD through Mombasa Road and Jogoo road, Ruai and Ruiru fragment which
connects to Thika road.
There is a high presence of informal commercial activities along the road with
kiosks established near the road. However, the high presence of these commercial
activities maybe as a result of high levels of traffic along the road since it is a
primary distributor road and the expansion of the road has brought about major
changes in the morphology along the road.
Multi-level-built forms were identified along this road and were ranging from 3-7
floors. The height restriction for the area is up to 3 floors therefore indicating that
some of the buildings along this road have not adapted to the planning regulations
of the area. The functions of some of the emerging built forms vary with most being
commercial based, and mixed-use developments. Other functions include hotel &
accommodation, institutional and residential.
4.3.1.2. Utawala Road

Utawala road is one of the secondary streets and is considered a transportation hub
in Utawala which links Machakos county and Ruai ward to the Eastern by-pass
highway through the Utawala- Githunguri road. It also acts as a link to the various
residential courts in the area. The road is characterized by multi-level mixed use
developments and medium rise apartments. Commercial activities have been
established on the ground floor of most of the apartments along this road. Informal
commercial activities and kiosks near the road increase in number as you head
towards Utawala-Githunguri road.
4.3.1.3. Kigwathi Road
Kigwathi road is a secondary street which acts as a link between Utawala ward and
Mihango ward. It accommodates both commercial activities and residential
apartments both medium and high-rise apartments. Commercial activities along the
Eastern by-pass highway at Utawala ward have spilled over to the Eastern by-pass
highway and Kigwathi road node. Most of the buildings along this road are
commercial buildings going up to 3 floors. But as you go towards Mihango ward,
medium-rise apartments are dominant along the road. A common characteristic
with the apartments in the along this road is that the lower floor is used for
commercial purposes. Some of the low-rise buildings along this road are
undergoing some modifications. Additional floors are being added to accommodate
more users to the buildings.
Traffic along this route is quite busy with both vehicular and pedestrian traffic since
it acts as a link between two wards.
4.3.1.4. Fahari Kincar Road
Fahari Kincar road acts as a link between Utawala ward and Machakos county and
Ruai ward. It forms a node with the Utawala- Githunguri road which is quite busy
with pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The node is characterized by formal and
informal commercial activities. Most developments along this road are medium rise
residential apartments and bungalows which are in their own lots. This road
provides an alternate route into and out of Utawala.
4.3.1.5 Kibiku Road
Kibiku road provides an alternate route into parts of the Northern side of Utawala.
Kibiku road forms a node with the Eastern by-pass and the node is popular
landmark in the area known as “Kwa Chifu Stage” which is used as a bus stop for
the locals. The node is characterized by both formal and informal commercial
activities with some kiosks being constructed along the road. One major
commercial establishment along this node is the Mashariki mall which has various
commercial activities including a supermarket, bank, a restaurant and various
commercial activities. The road design in the area does to accommodate for
pedestrian movement since most of the pedestrians walk on the road.
4.3.2. Focal points of activity

The focal points of activity around Utawala fragment are important nodes that have
led to the growth and increase of activities both socially, economically and
culturally. Most activities are concentrated along the Eastern by-pass highway
which is the major circulation axis. It also has drop-off points which ‘matatus’ pick
and drop passengers on the same axis. The nodes are characterized by
supermarkets, hotels for accommodation and informal commercial and vending
activities.
4.3.2.1. Kigwathi road and Eastern by-pass

4.3.2.2. Kibiku road and Eastern by-pass
4.3.2.3. Utawala road and Eastern by-pass

4.3.2.4. Fahari Kincar road and Utawala- Githunguri road

CHAPTER 5: ANALYSIS
5.0 INTRODUCTION
This chapter identifies and analyses urban forms that are emerging in Utawala.
Urban morphological analysis was carried out based on region, the neighborhood,
the block and the unit. The block and the unit are however important in this
analysis.
5.1 REGIONAL LEVEL
Utawala is a ward located on the Eastern part of Nairobi in Embakasi North

constituency in Nairobi County. Utawala lies approximately 22 km east of the
central business district (CBD) and covers a total area of about 2300 hectares.
Utawala lies along the Nairobi Eastern Bypass Highway and borders Mihango
constituency to the North, Ruai to the East and Machakos county to the South.
Administratively the area forms part of Embakasi North constituency.
Utawala falls within zone 10E of the Nairobi County government’s zoning map.
This zone is also comprised of Villa Franca and Imara Daima.
5.1.1 The Morphology
The morphology of Utawala has transformed rapidly from a predominantly low-

lying residential neighborhood to a mixed-use neighborhood (commercial,
residential) with various activities emerging in the area. Commercial activities have
intensified along the Eastern by-pass and with that the morphology has been
changing with response to the increasing commercial activities and residential
demands of the area.
The morphological analysis was based on the following elements which include;
the block, the street and the relationship between the buildings and open spaces
adjacent to it.
The urban layout of Utawala irregular. The irregular layout has no particular order.
The streets are fairly short and narrow with few open spaces forming alleys of
irregular layout.
Most of the plots and blocks have a rectangular shape and are perpendicular while
some parallel to the main street; the Eastern by-pass highway. The blocks vary in
sizes; block A (40m by 140m) while block is B is (500m by 70m) while block C is
(100m by 60m)
There are two types of urban spaces system which show the relationship between
buildings and their related open spaces which include the traditional urban spaces
and the urban. The current Utawala exhibits a ‘Modern’ type of urban spaces which
consists of free-standing buildings in a landscape setting.
The street layout character has changed since the area started transforming and also
the skyline has been changing which is attributed to the change in building heights.
The spatial layout has changed from plot to plot due to the individual plot
transformations and changing land uses in the area.
The changing morphology is more pronounced along the major circulation route in
the area which is the Eastern by-pass highway.
5.1.2. Land use
The land use around Utawala is majorly residential and commercial areas where
most of the commercial activities lie on the main street of Utawala which is the
Eastern by-pass highway. The commercial activities along the main street have
spilled over to the major streets in the area which are Kibiku road, Kigwathi road
and Utawala road with informal commercial activities being the main activity along
the road reserves.
Multilevel built forms are also emerging along the main circulation route that is, the
Eastern By pass highway and also along the supply circulation routes which include
Kibiku road, Kigwathi road and Utawala road. The functions of the emerging built
forms are varied depending on the specific locations in that along the Eastern by-
pass highway most of the emerging multi-level forms are majorly commercial
developments while in the supply routes, the emerging multilevel forms are majorly
residential or mixed-use developments. The space between buildings is gradually
reducing especially around the main road where there has been an increase in the
ground coverage. Increased plot coverage has resulted in little open spaces within
some buildings developing edge to edge leaving no open spaces between

neighboring plots. Most of the open spaces within a specific plot is at the front of
the development which is mostly used as parking space.
5.1.3. Perception
In constructing the mental image of a city, there are five basic elements used which
include; paths, edges, districts, nodes and landmarks.
5.1.3.1 Paths/ The street pattern
The Eastern By- pass connects Utawala to Embakasi through the Airport North
Road which connects to the CBD through Mombasa Road or Outering road which
joins to Jogoo road which goes to the CBD. The secondary streets provide
alternative routes for movement within Utawala.
The Eastern By-pass which is the main street visually and physically continues as it
passes through Utawala from Embakasi and it continues past Kangundo road
junction to Ruiru. The elements defining the streets enclosure are frontages,
floorscape, height to width ratio and the skyline. Most of the buildings on the main
street range from 3 floors to 6 floors, with frontages having a different
configuration from building to building. The main street is wider in comparison to
the local distributor streets.
5.1.3.2. Edges
Edges are boundaries between two phases. These are the linear elements that the
observer does not use or consider to be paths; they are the boundaries between two
paths, linear breaks in continuity: shores, railroad cuts, development edges, and
walls. An edge can either be a barrier (penetrable or closes off one region from
another region).
An edge can also be a seam (they are lines along which two regions that are related
are joined together) Kangundo road acts as a seam between Utawala and Ruai.
Utawala-Githunguri road forms the boundary between Utawala and Machakos
county. The edge defining the boundary between Mihango and Utawala is not
clearly defined.
5.1.3.3. Districts
These are the medium-to-large sections of the city, conceived of as having a two-
dimensional extent, that the observer mentally enters 'inside of,' and that are
recognizable as having some common, identifying characteristics. Utawala consists
of several districts:
5.1.3.4. Nodes
These are the strategic points in a city into which an observer can enter and from
which he is traveling; they may be primarily junctions, places of a break in
transportation, a crossing or convergence of paths, or moments of transition from
one structure to another. In the Utawala fragment, the nodes are located at all road
intersections. The nodes include; intersection of the Eastern by-pass with Mihango
road, Eastern by-pass with Kibiku road which is also serves as a bus stop, the
Eastern by pass with Fahari Kincar Road, the Eastern by-pass with Utawala road
which also serves as a bus stop. The major node in Utawala is at the intersection of
Kangundo road with the Eastern by-pass highway. Most nodes around Utawala are
commercial oriented. This is because most of the commercial activities along the
Eastern by-pass have spilled over to the various nodes and secondary streets.
5.1.3.5. Landmarks
These are another type of point-reference, but the observer does not enter them;
they are external, and they are usually a fairly simple physical object: Some
landmarks are distant ones, typically seen from many angles and distances, over the
tops of smaller elements, and used as radial references.
Some of the landmarks identified in the Utawala urban fabric include the Kibiku
road intersection with the Eastern by-pass which is referred to in the local area as
“kwa chifu” stage which is considered as a major reference point for people coming
from Embakasi; the GSU area is also considered as a landmark. Buildings having a
single function are also evident especially buildings with public facilities for
example Bristol Park Hospital, Embakasi Benedicta academy.
5.2. Neighborhood Level

The sampled neighborhood level being studied in the Utawala fragment is defined
by the Eastern by-pass highway since the sampled blocks are along this highway. A
greater part of the sampled neighborhood is bordered to the South by the GSU
training school.
5.2.1. The Morphology
The sampled neighborhood is composed of approximately five blocks. The blocks

sampled blocks vary in their sizes and lie parallel to the main axis which is the
Eastern by-pass highway but lie perpendicularly to the secondary streets. The
variation in sizes forms an irregular layout which is observed in the irregular layout
in Utawala. Block A (40m by 140m) has commercial buildings only and range are
up to three floors and lies parallel to the Eastern by-pass highway while block B
(500m by 80m) is comprised of various establishments from hotel and
accommodation, commercial buildings, religious institution, medical institution and
residential apartments. The number of floors in this block vary according to the
building with the tallest building having five floors. Block C (100m by 60m)
comprises of commercial enterprises, hotel and accommodation, mixed use
developments and residential apartments. Block D has an area of 12,250 m2. The
block is comprised of various buildings with various functions and varying heights.
Most of the buildings around this block are commercial oriented and others for
hotel and accommodation purposes and are up to three floors.
5.2.2 Land use

Commercial spaces, residential spaces, hotel and accommodation spaces and

informal commercial spaces are among the dominant developments in the
neighborhood. Most of the low-rise commercial establishments are a mix of the old
type single storey buildings and the emerging type. Some of the single storey
buildings are having floors added to them to accommodate more users. Others have
undergone some modifications to suite the users of the buildings; building elements
like staircase being located outside to help access the top floors without entering the
building. The emerging building typology are mostly residential and commercial
buildings with some having the mixed- use type where the lower level is for
commercial activities and the upper levels for accommodation.
5.3. The Block level
Block B was sampled for study at the block level. See fig…
5.3.1. The Morphology
The block lies parallel to the Eastern by-pass and is perpendicular to Kigwathi road.
The size of the block is approximately 500m by 80m. The development of the
particular buildings in this block does to abide to any rule hence the variations in
heights and size. The shape of the plots in this block are rectangular in shape and lie
perpendicular to their respective access routes. Most of the plots in this block
measure approximately 23m by 28m.
The plots lay back-to-back each having their frontage to the particular street or
access route it faces. Plots in this block have been bought or sold over the years
therefore the boundaries have changed overtime making it difficult to read the plot
layouts. Plot extensions and modifications on the various individual buildings have
attributed to these changes and deformities on the plot boundaries.
The main access routes to this block are two; the Eastern by-pass and Kigwathi
road while the other access routes are 5m wide roads which have not been
tarmacked. Visual permeability around the block is reduced due to the plot
extensions beyond their respective plot lines and this affects movement around this
block.
Some of the old single storey buildings and bungalows are being replaced by the
emerging type buildings and others having floors added to them to accommodate
more users. Open spaces between and within buildings has also been reduced to
small portions and courts. The old single storey buildings and bungalows had a
bigger open space while the emerging type buildings have smaller open spaces
which are used for ventilation and lighting into the buildings. Open spaces include
courtyards, road reserves and leftover spaces such as back alleys. The open spaces
in front of the buildings especially buildings facing the Eastern by-pass have
attracted informal activities especially with
The characteristics of the building structures within this block include; the
emerging type building developments (multi-story apartments, hotels, muti-storied
shopping plazas and medical institutions) and the old type developments (single
storey, double storey) The old type buildings have some of them modified either
based on the form, no. of floors, spatial layout of the various spaces and function.
5.3.2. Land use
Land uses on this block have changed over the years due to demand for space and
increase in activities in the area. Most of the plots facing the Eastern by pass road
have informal expansions with some of the commercial spaces using the road
reserve to advertise their goods. Informal vending activities are also a characteristic
on the road reserve in this block. Existence of small enterprises such as saloons,
bars, cheap and affordable lodgings and presence of workshops in the old buildings
is an indication that most of the land uses in this block are displaced. The existing
old building type was modified to accommodate the displaced uses while incoming
uses most times lead to redevelopment, plot amalgamations and construction of
new buildings.
The major streets around this block are Eastern by-pass and Kigwathi road. Plots
along Eastern by-pass have a greater land use value compared to those facing
Kigwathi road and the other supply routes immediately adjacent to the plots. Most
of the building establishments immediately adjacent to the streets in this block are
commercial buildings while plots facing the supply routes and the back alley of this
block are mostly residential.
The spatial configuration of the block has been shaped by the main streets and the
supply routes within the plot. At the West end of the block, the plot appears to take
the shape of the particular supply route that links the Eastern by-pass and Gesora
road.
5.4 THE UNIT LEVEL
The unit level puts the following factors into consideration, the spatial layout, form
and function of the various buildings. The general form and structure of houses in
Utawala fragment suggests that there are two main typologies; the emerging type
which include the multi-storey apartments and the 'old type’.
5.4.1. ‘The Old type’
The ‘old type’ building is one of the oldest typologies in the Utawala fragment with
single storey residential bungalows being the oldest typology in the area. The ‘old
type’ building served as both residential space and commercial space. Commercial
spaces were located at the front then residential spaces were located at the back
with an open space which was used a space for domestic activities, but it’s
important to note that not all buildings had residential spaces at the back. The ‘old
type’ has undergone modifications and extensions to fit the growing demand. Only
a few buildings of this typology were observed during the study of the area. This is
because the typology is rapidly being replaced by the emerging type which is the
multi storey buildings.

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URBAN TRANSFORMATION

NAME: OLANGO RICHARD

OLANGO RICHARD (Reg No.: B02/100868/2017)

Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of

Urban transformation can be described as the sum of comprehensive and integrated

Utawala is quickly changing from a sparsely populated residential area to a dense

Development in Utawala intensified beginning 2008, when a dirt road extending

1.1 PROBLEM STATEMENT

Utawala is a rapidly developing ward in Embakasi constituency along the Eastern

1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What are the concepts of urban transformation in the context of Utawala

1.3 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1. To explore the concept of urban transformation in the context of sustainable

1.4 SIGNIFICANCE AND JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY

There is little existing information on urban transformation of Utawala region. This

1.5 SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

Inadequate understanding of how African cities develop and acquire certain

1.6 KEY DEFINITIONS

1.7 ORGANIZATION OF STUDY

This chapter is dedicated to the methods used in conducting the research. It

This chapter examines the morphological transformation of Utawala identifying the

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 DEFINING URBAN TRANSFORMATION

Urban transformations are the outcome of radical changes of dominant structures

2.1.1 CATEGORIES OF TRANSFORMATION

Heritage conservation-based urban transformation:

Urban Transformation Based on Regeneration:

Re) Development-based Urban Transformation:

Deteriorated urban spaces in the city necessitate urban transformation based on

2.1.2 FACTORS OF URBAN TRANSFORMATION (ISOCARP,2012

The economy is directly dependent on state organization and political development.

2.1.2.3 Urban Planning

The role of urban planning in urban transformation is determined by the area

2.1.2.4 Architectural Design

2.1.3 Urban Transformation Processes

2.1.3.2 Urbanization Stage Theory

Urbanization, along with industrialization, is regarded as the primary driver of

• When the level of urbanization exceeds 70%, urban growth stabilizes,

2.2 THE MORPHOLOGICAL DIMENSION

One approach of understanding the city is through urban morphology. Morphology

2.2.1 Interweaving of built up and open spaces

2.2.2 Hierarchy of scale

2.2.3 Interweaving of hard and soft elements zones and margins

2.2.4 Spatial articulation of functional themes

2.2.5 The tissue structuring privacy-regulation

2.3 THE URBAN BLOCK (HAUSSMANNIEN PARIS: 1853-82)

The study of the Haussmannien block aims to provide knowledge and

2.3.1 Characteristics of Haussmannien block

2.3.1.2 The arrangement of the built form

2.3.1.3 The capacity for accommodating a range of functions

2.3.1.4 The block in the urban combination

2.4 URBAN MORPHOLOGICAL TRANSFORMATIONS

Morphological transformations in this research context refers to the changes in the

2.4.1 Morphological Elements

2.4.1.1 Land uses

2.4.1.2 Building Structures

Moudon’s ( (Moudon A. , 1986) comprehensive study on San Francisco Alamo

2.4.1.3 The plot patterns

2.4.1.4 The Cadastral/ street pattern