Central Place Theory in Urban Design: Cebu City Example

Central Place Theory, developed by Walter Christaller, explains the spatial distribution of
settlements and services in a hierarchical pattern. It is based on the idea that settlements,
or central places, are organized in a hexagonal pattern with varying levels of goods and
services. It presents a conceptual model elucidating the arrangement of urban centers
within a geographical area. Based on the assumptions of a uniform plain and population
distribution, central places, ranging from villages to cities, form a hierarchy determined by
range and threshold principles. The theory posits that larger central places serve broader
populations over greater distances, offering a wider array of goods and services, while
smaller ones cater to more localized needs. The hexagonal pattern proposed by
Christaller minimizes overlap and gaps in service areas, assuming ideal transportation
and communication networks. Although modifications and criticisms exist, the Central
Place Theory remains a foundational concept in urban geography, applied in fields such
as urban planning and retail location analysis, providing insights into settlement
organization and economic functions.

Key Concepts:

Hexagonal Hierarchy:
Settlements are arranged in hexagons, minimizing overlap and maximizing
efficiency.

Threshold and Range:

Threshold: Minimum population needed to support a service.
Range: Maximum distance people are willing to travel for a service.

Hierarchical Arrangement:
Larger settlements provide a broader range of goods and services.
Base Map: Cebu City

By identifying key goods and services such as hospitals, schools, grocery stores, and
entertainment venues, I've taken a crucial step in understanding the urban landscape's
functional requirements. Assigning population thresholds to each service and establishing
travel distances as ranges demonstrate the consideration of the theory's principles. The
application of a hexagonal grid over Cebu City, differentiating larger hexagons for higher-
order services and smaller ones for lower-order services, reflects a practical
implementation of Christaller's hexagonal pattern. The use of color-coded hexagons
enhances visual clarity, providing an intuitive representation of service types or
hierarchical levels. Additionally, labeling each hexagon with service details, including
population thresholds and ranges, adds precision to the map. The incorporation of major
transportation routes acknowledges their impact on service accessibility and contributes
to a comprehensive understanding of the city's urban structure.

This overlay map visually represents how goods and services are distributed in Cebu City
based on Central Place Theory. It provides insights for urban planners to optimize service
distribution and understand the city's spatial structure.
Public Choice Theory in Urban Design:

1. Rational Decision-Making in Zoning Policies:

Background:
Zoning policies play a pivotal role in urban design, regulating land use and determining
the spatial organization of a city. These policies are essential for maintaining order,
managing growth, and balancing the interests of various stakeholders.

Application of Public Choice Theory:

Public Choice Theory can be applied to analyze the decision-making process behind
zoning policies and how various actors, such as developers, residents, and local
government officials, pursue their self-interest.

Example: High-Density Residential Zoning in Downtown District

Scenario:
Imagine a city with a growing population and increased demand for housing in the
downtown area. Developers, residents, and local officials are involved in decision-making
regarding zoning policies.

Application:

Developers' Rational Choices:

Developers may lobby for changes in zoning regulations to allow higher-density
residential developments in the downtown area. This could potentially increase the value
of their land and maximize profits.

Government Decision-Making:
Local government officials, influenced by developers' proposals and considering potential
economic benefits, might be inclined to amend zoning policies to permit higher-density
residential buildings in the downtown district.

Community Response:
Residents in the area might have diverse opinions. Some may support increased density
for the economic benefits it could bring, while others may resist due to concerns about
congestion, loss of historic character, or changes to the neighborhood's identity.

Unintended Consequences:
The decision to increase residential density may lead to unintended consequences, such
as increased traffic, strain on infrastructure, or alterations to the urban fabric. These
consequences may not align with the initial goals of promoting economic development
and addressing housing demand.
Cosmic Harmony in City Design

Cardinal Direction Alignment

- Inspired by Filipino beliefs in cosmic energies, the city is meticulously oriented to align with
cardinal directions. The east, symbolizing new beginnings and positive energy, plays a
significant role in the placement of important structures, while the west is reserved for closure
and reflection.

Celestial Markers and Central Axis

- A central axis traverses the city, connecting important celestial markers. Landmarks and
monuments along this axis are designed to align with astronomical events, creating a tangible
connection between the city and the cosmos. This axis symbolizes unity and cosmic balance.

Symbolic Landscaping
- In line with Filipino traditions, the city integrates symbolic landscaping. Water features
represent the flow of life and prosperity, while green spaces follow a Yin-Yang pattern,
embodying the harmony of opposing forces. The landscape is carefully designed to evoke a
sense of serenity and connection with nature.

Sacred Geometry
- Sacred geometric shapes, including those found in traditional Filipino patterns like the
"Sarimanok," permeate the city's design. Key buildings and public spaces adhere to
geometric proportions believed to bring about harmony, balance, and positive energy flow.

City Zones

Spiritual Center
- The heart of the city is a grand temple or spiritual center, strategically positioned to face
the sunrise. This serves as a focal point for community gatherings, religious ceremonies, and
meditation. Surrounding greenery and water features contribute to a tranquil and spiritually
charged atmosphere.

Residential Quarters
- Residential areas are organized into clusters following Feng Shui principles. This ensures
good energy flow and harmonious living for residents. Communal spaces within these clusters
encourage neighborhood bonding and the celebration of traditional festivals.

Marketplace and Trade Districts

- Marketplaces and trade districts are designed in alignment with auspicious directions,
promoting vibrant economic activity. Architectural elements in these areas draw from
traditional Filipino designs, creating a distinct cultural identity.

Educational and Cultural Hub

- Educational institutions are strategically placed in areas associated with knowledge and
wisdom. Open-air amphitheaters within the cultural hub facilitate cultural performances and
events celebrating the rich heritage of the Philippines.
 Spiritual Center Marketplace and Trade Districts

Park Educational and Cultural Hub:

Greenery Water Feature

Residential Quarters

This city design blends urban planning principles with deep-rooted Philippine
beliefs, resulting in a unique and culturally significant environment. By embracing
cosmic elements and traditional symbolism, the city aims to foster a strong sense
of community, balance, and a harmonious coexistence with both natural and
spiritual realms.
Reaction Paper on the short vlog video ‘’How China Builds’'

Nas Daily's video about "How China Builds" is really interesting. In the video, Nas shows
us how quickly and efficiently China constructs its cities and buildings. It's amazing to see
how entire cities seem to pop up in such a short time.

The video also talks about some concerns people have about China's fast development.
Nas mentions issues like people being forced to leave their homes, harm to the
environment, and the possible challenges faced by workers. This adds a more balanced
view, showing that while there are impressive accomplishments, there are also
drawbacks.

Nas Daily gives us a peek into the cultural side of China's development too. He talks
about how there's a focus on creating shared spaces, parks, and green areas in the cities.
This shows that it's not just about buildings; there's also thought put into making living
spaces enjoyable.

One thing to note is that the video is short. Considering the big topic of China's
development, it only covers the basics. But Nas Daily is making content for a wide
audience, so keeping it short helps keep people interested.

To sum it up, Nas Daily's video is a cool look at how China is rapidly building its cities. It
shows the quickness, size, and impact of this development. It also touches on the
concerns and positive aspects, giving us a glimpse into the complexity of China's growth.
If you're curious to learn more, it's a good starting point, but it's also important to explore
other sources for a complete understanding.