URBAN DESIGN STRATEGIES AND GUIDELINES
The Six Dimensions of Urban Design
Scale Focus Goal Matthew Carmona identifies six interrelated dimensions that influence the quality of
urban spaces. These dimensions apply at all three scales — macro, meso, and micro.
Functionality, growth, 1. Morphological (Form + Structure)
Macro Entire city/region
sustainability •How the city is physically laid out: blocks, plots, buildings, and open space
•Example: Street patterns, building footprints
Livability, community 2. Perceptual (Experience + Identity)
Meso Neighborhood/district •How people perceive and experience the city — visually, emotionally, and mentally
interaction
•Example: Landmarks, sense of place, legibility
Comfort, beauty, social 3. Social (People + Community)
Micro Streets/public realm •How urban space supports social life, interaction, inclusiveness
experience
•Example: Public squares, community parks, gathering spots
4. Visual (Aesthetics)
•The appearance of the built environment — style, form, color, materials
•Example: Architectural style, street design, building facades
5. Functional (Use + Activity)
•How well the space works for its users and activities
•Example: Access, circulation, land use mix, convenience
REFERENCES 6. Temporal (Change over Time)
- PUBLIC PLACES URBAN SPACES ,The Dimensions of •How urban spaces evolve with time — flexibility, adaptability, historical layers
Urban Design (part ii : the dimension of urban design) •Example: Redevelopment potential, seasonal use, preservation
- The Image of the City (chapter iv : city form)
- LIFE BETWEEN BUILDINGS Using Public Space (chapter
2 :Senses, Communication, and Dimensions)
URBAN DESIGN STRATEGIES AND GUIDELINES
Macro Scale Meso Scale Micro Scale
(City-wide / Metropolitan level) (Neighborhood / District level) (Human / Building interface
level)
What it Covers: What it Covers:
Entire city or large districts Communities, districts, and blocks
What it Covers:
Infrastructure, transport, green networks, land use Street networks, building groupings, open space
Streets, sidewalks, building facades, entries,
zoning systems
furniture, and landscaping
Strategies & Guidelines: Strategies & Guidelines:
Strategies & Guidelines :
Strategic Planning: Define long-term visions and Urban Block Design: Shape blocks that support
Human-Scale Design: Use proportions,
spatial development goals for the city. walkability and public life.
materials, and details that relate to the human
Connectivity: Ensure major roads, transit systems, Street Hierarchy: Balance vehicular access with
body and senses.
and green corridors are integrated. pedestrian priority.
Active Frontages: Ensure buildings engage the
Land Use Mix: Promote mixed-use planning to Public Realm Framework: Design parks, plazas,
street (doors, windows, activity).
reduce commute times and support local and streets as shared social spaces.
Edge Conditions: Design transitions between
economies. Density & Diversity: Promote varied building types
public and private spaces (stoops, arcades,
Hierarchy of Centers: Develop a clear network of and user groups within districts.
porches).
urban centers (e.g., central business districts, sub- Visual Coherence: Maintain continuity of materials,
Street Furniture & Lighting: Use elements that
centers). heights, and street rhythm.
enhance safety, usability, and comfort.
Sustainability: Support compact, transit-oriented Example:
Environmental Comfort: Address wind, light,
growth and environmental protection. Designing a neighborhood with well-connected
shade, noise, and safety at the pedestrian level.
Example: streets, mid-rise buildings, local shops, parks, and
Example:
Creating a city masterplan that ensures accessible schools within walking distance.
Designing a sidewalk café with benches, shade
transport routes and mixed-use areas to promote
trees, active storefronts, and warm lighting to
livability and efficiency.
encourage social interaction.
