SSE 113: Urban Geography
Chapter 1C : Urban Theories and Models
Rey Carl V. Arimas, PhD
Assistant Professor IV
Outline of Lecture:
▪ Grid Model (Hippodamian Plan)
▪ Concentric Zone Model (Burgess Model)
▪ Sector Model (Hoyt Model)
▪ Multiple Nuclei Model (Harris and Ullman Model)
▪ Urban Realms Model
▪ Central Place Theory
▪ Radburn Model
▪ Garden City Model
▪ Smart Growth and New Urbanism
▪ Sustainable Urbanism
▪ Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
Urban Planning Theories and Models
The Urban planning theories and models provide frameworks for designing, managing,
and developing urban areas to enhance livability, sustainability, and functionality. These theories
and models evolve over time, responding to economic, social, environmental, and technological
changes.
1. Grid Model (Hippodamian Plan)
▪ Explanation: The Grid Model, also known as the
Hippodamian Plan (named after the ancient Greek
urban planner Hippodamus), is one of the earliest and
most straightforward urban planning models. It
features a rectilinear street grid system that divides
the city into square or rectangular blocks. This model
emphasizes order, regularity, and easy navigation. It
is commonly seen in cities like New York and
Barcelona. The grid pattern allows for straightforward
land subdivision, efficient traffic flow, and effective
service delivery.
▪ Image Description: An overhead view of a city
following a grid pattern, with streets intersecting at
right angles to form square blocks. Tall buildings are
aligned i n a grid with clear pedestrian walkways and
tree-lined streets.
Figure 1. New York City Manhattan's layout is a modern
example of what urban planners call the Hippodamian
plan. https://engines.egr.uh.edu/episode/2542
2. Concentric Zone Model (Burgess Model)
▪ Explanation: Developed by sociologist Ernest Burgess in 1925, the Concentric Zone Model
explains the socio-economic layout of a city. The city is structured in concentric circles, with the
central business district (CBD) at the core, surrounded by zones of transition (factories and poor-
quality housing), working-class residences, better residences, and finally, the commuter zone in
the suburbs. This model reflects early 20th-century cities and emphasizes socio-economic
segregation.
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▪ Image Description: A diagram of concentric circles representing different urban zones. The
innermost circle is labeled CBD, followed by a transition zone, working-class zone, middle-class
zone, and outer commuter zone.
Figure 2A. The Burgess Urban Land Use Model (Park et.al. 1925/1967); 2B. Graphic illustration of Burgess' concentric
zone model. Nb: Zones 4 and 5 (Rubenstein, James M. The Cultural Landscape: An Introduction to Human Geography,
9th, © 2008. Reprinted by permission of Pearson Education, Inc. New York, New York). https://tinyurl.com/4wzm3wpz
3. Sector Model (Hoyt Model)
▪ Explanation: The Sector Model, proposed by Homer Hoyt in 1939, suggests that cities develop in
wedge-shaped sectors rather than concentric circles. Sectors are based on transportation routes,
with certain areas (like high-class residential zones) radiating outwards from the city center along
major roads or railways. The model accommodates urban growth and transportation networks and
shows a more realistic approach to land use patterns compared to the Concentric Zone Model.
▪ Image Description: A city map with sectors radiating from a central point, each sector designated
for different uses (e.g., residential, industrial, commercial) following transportation routes.
Figure 3. 2-Hoytʹs sector model. Source: Pacione (2001, page 101). https://tinyurl.com/mpfuymdz
4. Multiple Nuclei Model (Harris and Ullman Model)
• Explanation: Developed by Chauncy Harris and Edward Ullman in 1945, the Multiple Nuclei Model
proposes that cities do not have a single center but multiple centers (or "nuclei") around which
different types of activities cluster. These nuclei might include a central business district, industrial
zones, residential areas, and commercial hubs, reflecting the modern, sprawling cities that have
several sub-centers and diverse activities.
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• Image Description: A city map showing multiple "nuclei" or centers, each surrounded by areas
designated for specific purposes such as housing, industry, and commerce, interconnected by
roads and transport networks.
Figure 4. Harris and Ullman's Multiple Nuclei Model of Urbanization Source: https://tinyurl.com/ysvryzt9
5. Urban Realms Model
▪ Explanation: The Urban Realms Model, developed in
the 1960s by James Vance, describes the structure of
modern metropolitan areas that consist of multiple
"realms" or self-sufficient regions that have their own
downtowns (sub-centers). This model reflects how
suburban areas have become more independent, with
their own business districts, shopping malls, and
industries. The model is particularly relevant to cities with
extensive suburban development, such as Los Angeles.
▪ Image Description: A city diagram showing multiple
"realms" or suburban regions, each with a center
connected to other realms and a central city via a network
of highways.
Figure 5. Vance Urban Realms Model
Source: https://tinyurl.com/2hcr7cys
6. Central Place Theory
▪ Explanation: Developed by Walter Christaller
in 1933, Central Place Theory explains the
spatial distribution of cities and towns as
market centers for the surrounding region. It
suggests a hexagonal grid pattern where
central places provide services and goods to
surrounding smaller settlements, optimizing the
distance for consumers. This theory has been
influential in planning retail locations, city
services, and regional development.
▪ Image Description: A hexagonal grid with
central points representing towns or cities,
surrounded by smaller settlements and
transportation routes that connect these
places. Figure 6. Christaller Central Place Model
Source: https://tinyurl.com/ca65pj2f
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7. Garden City Model
• Explanation: Proposed by Ebenezer Howard in the
late 19th century, the Garden City Model aimed to
create self-contained communities surrounded by
greenbelts. It integrated the benefits of both urban and
rural environments, promoting balanced development
with zones for industry, agriculture, and housing. The
Garden City Model inspired modern suburban
planning and greenbelt cities.
• Image Description: A diagram showing a central city
core surrounded by a greenbelt, with smaller
surrounding satellite towns connected by roads and
railways, incorporating a balance of greenery,
residential areas, and industrial zones.
Figure 7 Garden City Movement by Sir Ebenezer
Howard Source: https://tinyurl.com/468kb229
8. Radburn Model
▪ Explanation: Developed in the 1920s for
Radburn, New Jersey, the Radburn Model is an example
of a "superblock" concept where residential
neighborhoods are designed around large blocks with
interior park spaces. The plan separates pedestrian and
vehicular traffic, promoting walkability and safety. This
model influences modern planned communities
emphasizing sustainability and livability.
▪ Image Description: A suburban neighborhood
plan showing superblocks with central green spaces,
curved roads, cul-de-sacs, and separate pathways for
pedestrians and cyclists.
Figure 8. Radburn Model
Source: https://tinyurl.com/ypa2m6c4
9. Smart Growth and New Urbanism
▪ Explanation: Smart Growth and New
Urbanism are contemporary urban planning
approaches focusing on sustainable
development, walkable neighborhoods, mixed-
use zoning, and public transit. They aim to
counter suburban sprawl by promoting
compact development, community-oriented
design, and environmentally friendly practices.
These models advocate for vibrant urban
centers with diverse land uses.
▪ Image Description: A modern cityscape
illustrating a mix of high-density residential
buildings, retail spaces, public parks,
pedestrian-friendly streets, bike lanes, and
efficient public transit options. Figure 9. Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Source: https://tinyurl.com/5yusxywu
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10. Sustainable Urbanism
▪ Explanation: Sustainable
Urbanism integrates ecological
principles into urban planning to
reduce environmental impact and
enhance quality of life. It
emphasizes green building,
renewable energy, waste
reduction, and resource-efficient
transportation systems. The focus
is on creating healthy, resilient,
and adaptable cities that can
withstand environmental
challenges.
▪ Image Description: A futuristic
urban landscape with green roofs,
solar panels, wind turbines,
integrated water management
systems, and extensive green
spaces like urban farms and Figure 10. Sustainable Urbanism Source: https://tinyurl.com/3wa2vutx
public parks.
11. Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
▪ Explanation: Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) focuses on creating compact, mixed-use
communities centered around high-quality public transportation systems. TOD encourages
residents to rely less on cars and more on walking, cycling, and public transit, reducing congestion
and promoting sustainability. The idea is to maximize access to public transportation while creating
vibrant, livable neighborhoods.
▪ Image Description: A cityscape centered around a transit hub (like a train or subway station) with
dense, mixed-use buildings, pedestrian pathways, bike lanes, and green spaces.
Figure 11. Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
Source: https://tinyurl.com/3v5sfmmk
