HISTORY OF URBAN PLANNING Rahul Das | PUP23297

SPACE, DENSITY AND URBAN FORM

META BERGHAUSER PONT | PER HAUPT

Book Review

1| Introduction

In the introduction, space matrix explained the history of evolution on the urban density concepts
by recommending various perspectives of Raymond Unwin to Jane Jacob’s philosophies for higher
density use. The challenges in the use of density are highlighted which includes disconnection
between measured density and spatial properties, building typology and plan boundaries. Despite
criticisms, there is a need for density as an important parameter while planning the city. In the
place of urban planning and layout, The SpaceMatrix as a multivariable density concept, redefined
density and bridged the gap between quantitative and qualitative aspects of space consumption.
emerges as a innovative concept that transcends traditional paradigms, presenting a dynamic and
holistic method to know-how the interplay between area, density, and concrete shape.

Figure 1- Three different areas with 75 dwellings per hectare

2| City Development and Space Consumption

a) Merchant Capitalism (1400–1815)

Dutch new towns and organic cities flourished for the sake of economic boost. In 1400 Amsterdam
had a density of 110 people per hectare. The population rose to about 650 Persons per hectare in
the Golden Age (1650). These policies marked a transition to huge-scale urban making plans,
facilitated by means of shareholder-funded schemes for big-scale public works. The zoning code
added in this enlargement become geared toward both departmental zoning and aesthetic standards.
At the height of Golden Age, financial complication, war, and stagnation within the 18th century
reduced the density to round 320 humans consistent with hectare by 1815. This duration highlighted
town planning sample is visible, first off ordinary urban pattern characterized by feudal ruler and
secondly gradual urbanization because of monetary boom.

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Figure 2- Population density in Amsterdam

1400-2000.

Figure 3- Territorial Growth of Amsterdam 1400-1815.

b) Liberal-Competitive Capitalism (1815 – 1900)

In 19th century, population moved rapidly into Dutch cities due to industrialization and
immigration, leading to overcrowding and health issues. The population grew from 180,000 to
510,000 till the end of 18 th century in Amsterdam. Overpopulation was seen due to the industrial
revolution and agriculture crisis. Jordan & Amsterdam experienced overcrowding due to
overcrowding which became a major health challenge.

Emerging overcrowding was criticized which led to discussion about urbanity, aesthetics &
hygiene. Development of the city was affected as the tension grew between unregulated market
forces and population intervention.

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Figure 4- Population density in

Amsterdam 1400-2000.

Figure 5- Territorial growth in

Amsterdam (1815-1900)

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Figure 6- Expansion plan for Amsterdam drawn by Van Niftrik in 1866 (De Klerk, 2008: 258)

Figure 7- Expansion plan for Amsterdam

drawn by Kalff in 1877 (De Klerk, 2008:
258)

c) State-Managed Capitalism (1900 – 1979)

The described changes in urban planning in the netherlands date back to the late 1900s. The move
from free competition to a more state controlled in the 19 th century. One of the most important
amendments is the 1901 19th Century Housing Act 1986. This has led to a greater role for central
government and municipalities development. Plan of Berlage in Amsterdam, expansion plans for
1934, and Bijlmermir, built in 1973, are examples of urban development.

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Lionel March challenged conventional thinking Lionel March challenged conventional thinking,
suggesting that semi-detached houses can increase occupancy rather than tall buildings in urban
center.

Figure 7- Territorial growth of

Amsterdam 1900-1984

d) Neoliberal Capitalism (1979 – 2008)

In 1973, forced by the oil crisis the opportunity to expand the city was cancelled by the city
government. They have continued along the path, with urban renewal, redevelopment, and a shift
from collective investment to the market and increased public-private partnerships focused on
urban, reinforced and marked by attracting people on the middle. The role of private investors,
developers, and construction companies in promoting economic development and spatial
transformation shifted from skeptical to collaborative Urban planning and planning became
focused on commercial images and physical they will be greatly improved to facilitate the flow of
people, money and materials. “Too blessed to be depressed" quoted by Spacematrix.

Figure 8- Population density in Amsterdam

1400 - 2000

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Figure 9- Territorial growth of Amsterdam

1984-2000.

3| PHYSICAL DENSITY MEASURE

Population and dwelling density, Land use intensity, Coverage, Building height, Spaciousness are the
measurement methods to measure density and draw conclusions on effectiveness in decoding
urban form.

4| MULTIVARIABLE DEFINITION OF DENSITY

The multivariate density concept includes intensity (FSI), compactness (GSI), and network density
(N), aims to differentiate between different definitions of cities.

Four Variables to Calculate Density

The four variables needed to calculate the basic indicators FSI, GSI and N, are - Base land
area (A, Network length (l), Gross floor area (F), Built up area, or footprint (B)

5| Origins and Evolution:

SpaceMatrix, advanced through visionary city theorists and architects, represents a departure from
traditional town planning ideologies. Rooted within the acknowledgment of the constraints of both
high-density and coffee-density techniques, SpaceMatrix seeks to strike a sensitive balance that
optimizes spatial efficiency, fosters community engagement, and promotes sustainable dwelling.
The genesis of SpaceMatrix may be traced returned to the past due 20th century, a length marked
by using a developing interest of the pitfalls of urban sprawl and the drawbacks of immoderate
density. As towns accelerated and varied, the want for a comprehensive framework that would
reconcile conflicting needs have become obtrusive. SpaceMatrix emerged as a reaction to this
mission, providing a nuanced lens thru which to view the urban panorama.

Core Principles of SpaceMatrix:

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SpaceMatrix operates on a fixed of center standards that together redefine the dynamics of town
area, density, and form. One of its crucial tenets is the idea of "adaptive density," acknowledging
that a one-duration-suits-all method to density is insufficient. Adaptive density acknowledges that
extremely good areas inside a metropolis might also moreover require various levels of density
based on elements along with infrastructure potential, transportation accessibility, and
environmental considerations. Furthermore, SpaceMatrix introduces the concept of "flexible
metropolis forms," advocating for a departure from rigid zoning tips. This principle encourages a
greater herbal and responsive approach to urban improvement, bearing in mind the evolution of
spaces in response to changing wishes and societal dynamics. By promoting blended-use trends
and diverse architectural patterns, SpaceMatrix seeks to create colorful, resilient, and inclusive
urban environments.

Spatial Efficiency and Smart Design:

At the center of SpaceMatrix lies a commitment to spatial efficiency. Unlike traditional metropolis
making plans that often leans toward both excessive-density skyscrapers or sprawling suburbs,
SpaceMatrix encourages a cautious stability that maximizes land use without sacrificing first rate of
lifestyles. The concept of "spatial triage" is brought, wherein areas are categorised based totally
mostly on their suitability for particular levels of density, growing a mosaic of city areas that cater
to severa desires.

Smart layout is a key component of SpaceMatrix, incorporating concepts of sustainability and

technological integration. From inexperienced roofs and electricity-inexperienced homes to smart
infrastructure and digital connectivity, SpaceMatrix envisions towns that aren't only aesthetically
fascinating however additionally environmentally aware and technologically advanced.

Community-Centric Approach:

SpaceMatrix locations a robust emphasis on fostering community connections interior town

environments. The idea of "network nodes" encourages the development of centralized hubs that
serve as social, cultural, and financial focal points. These nodes, characterized by blended-use areas
and pedestrian-pleasant designs, reason to domesticate an experience of belonging and interaction
among residents.

Inclusivity is another cornerstone of SpaceMatrix's community-centric approach. By selling a

severa blend of housing options, collectively with less highly priced housing inner well-related
metropolis regions, SpaceMatrix seeks to create socially inclusive cities that cater to residents of all
profits levels. This commitment to equity aligns with the wider societal desires of creating cities
that are not best realistic but additionally definitely and inclusive.

CHALLENGES AND CRITICISMS:

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SWhile SpaceMatrix offers a vision of urban development interest, gives a compelling vision for the
destiny of town improvement, it isn't always without its challenges and criticisms. Implementing
Implementation of adaptive density requires deep understanding of the existing scenario
requires complex making plansplanning and a deep understanding of close by contexts, which
creates a challenge for policy makers.posing logistical traumatic situations for policymakers. The
flexible metropolis office work proposed by SpaceMatrix may additionallymay additionally
face resistance from traditional zoning regulations and set upits planning practices.

Moreover, the transition to SpaceMatrix-inspired city development can also stumble upon
resistance from stakeholders accustomed to traditional planning approaches. Convincing
developers, policymakers, and the general public of the benefits of this paradigm shift can also
require massive education and advocacy efforts.

FUTURE IMPLICATIONS:

As cities grapple with the complexities of rapid urbanization, climate change, and societal shifts, the
standards embedded in SpaceMatrix advantage importance. The adaptive, bendy, and community-
centric technique of SpaceMatrix positions it as a potential blueprint for developing towns that
aren't handiest resilient and sustainable however moreover responsive to the evolving goals of
their inhabitants.

In an era in which era maintains to form urban stories, SpaceMatrix's integration of smart layout
thoughts aligns with the ongoing trajectory of smart towns. The idea's potential to adapt to rising
technologies, from self sustaining transportation to the Internet of Things, positions it at the
forefront of revolutionary urban making plans.

CONCLUSION:

SpaceMatrix emerges as a groundbreaking paradigm that disturbing situations traditional notions

of vicinity, density, and urban form. By embracing adaptive density, flexible metropolis office work,
spatial overall performance, and a community-centric method, SpaceMatrix offers a complete
framework for growing towns that aren't only aesthetically attractive but also socially inclusive,
environmentally sustainable, and technologically superior. While stressful conditions persist, the
capacity for SpaceMatrix to form the future of town improvement is obvious, presenting a glimpse
right into a more harmonious and resilient urban landscape.

** used external programme for the draft**

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6| FUTURE IMPLICATIONS

Spacematrix’s approach emerges as a potential model for the growing cities which experienced
rapid urbanization, climate change and complex social and economic changes. Due to its flexibility,
sustainable, community centric approach addresses development challenges.

Spacematrix’s density concept meets the existing scenario of smart cities.

7| CONCLUSION

Adaptive density, flexible office spaces, spatial efficiency, and community thinking Spacematrix
breaks traditional concepts of neighborhoods and urban planning Instead of focusing on aesthetics,
social inclusion and environmental sustainability there is always considered in this way. The
Spacematrix provides a vision of a coherent and resilient urban landscape that can influence future
development.

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