Urban Design and Analysis: Observing, Interpreting, and Representing the City

How do we make sense of the complex physical, social, and functional layers of a city? To design or plan for urban environments, you must first learn how to truly observe them. This course introduces you to the core methodologies of urban design, teaching you how to analyze urban form, decode public life, and translate your observations into clear, structured representations. You will develop a critical eye for the built environment and understand how spatial layout influences human behavior. Through structured readings and written exercises, you will transition from a passive observer to an active urban analyst. You will learn to: • Understand foundational urban design terminology, spatial concepts, and historical planning frameworks. • Observe and document public spaces, architectural scales, and pedestrian movement patterns systematically. • Analyze urban form by examining street networks, block structures, and land-use patterns. • Incorporate modern urban priorities including pedestrian-first design, accessibility, and climate resilience into spatial evaluations. • Represent your spatial findings using standard professional analytical frameworks and descriptive narrative techniques. This course begins with basic spatial definitions and observational principles, then guides you through real-world analysis techniques and modern urban design challenges. It is designed entirely for beginners with no prior background in urban planning, architecture, or design. Start building your urban analysis skills today and learn to read the city like a professional designer.