The Image of Barcelona

The

Image

Of

Barcelona A comparative study of Grà cia and Barceloneta using Kevin Lynch’s imageability theory

Prepared for: Becky Sobell Prepared by: Sian Bury, 12001296 B.LAND3 Humanities World Urbanism 2013-2014

Contents Summary

4

Introduction

7

Background

10

Path

16

Edge

22

District

26

Node

34

Landmark

39

Conclusion

45

Glossary

48

Referencing

50

SU

MM ARY 4

Summary Aim The intention was to explore Lynch’s beliefs with regard to good city imageability making it easier to way-find with a mental or cognitive map.

This involved using Lynch’s five elements (Paths, Edges, Districts, Nodes, and Landmarks) as a means of deducing the imageability of the two selected areas i.e. Barceloneta and Gràcia.

N.B. The terms ‘wayfinding’ and ‘imageability’ were both coined by

Fig 1. Plaça de la Virreina 1

Lynch.

As well as exploring the imageability of the areas it was the intention to identify any hierarchical structure regarding the five elements. By exploring imageability the ease of navigability may be determined, the potential consequences being that it may be possible to create a feeling of safety and give a heightened

Fig 2. Plaça de la Virreina 2

sense of connection and meaning.

Procedure Observations were made over a period of five days when authentic activity was witnessed. Written records were made, sketches, images and photographic records produced (see figs 1,2,3). This was supported by a literature search and notes taken during a conversation with a local historian.

Fig 3. Plaça de la Virreina 3 Fig 1,2,3 taken from Plaça de la Virreina, Gràcia where the church of Sant Joan de Gràcia stands proudly as one of the regions landmarks

5

Results Each area presented examples of

In the end imageability may be a result

evidence of the five elements, though in

of a conceptual process combined with

very different patterns (including Plaça

a subjective perception and serves to

de la Virreina - see fig 4). Barceloneta

optimise way-finding, particularly when

and Gràcia’s street layouts were

applied to areas with strong elements

markedly different and there was no

such as Barceloneta and Gràcia.

suggested hierarchy for the elements except for paths (the most well used being given the greatest status).

We return to the question of ‘meaning’ as being fundamental to the strength of each element and recognise the association with people as well as individuals. We know the historical, environmental and cultural associations of each area are potentially strong.

Fig 4. Plaça de la Virreina using Lynch’s imageability theory to define key paths, nodes and landmarks

6

IN TR DU

OCT

ION 7

Introduction Wayfinding through a city environment can be so much easier when there is good navigability. This allows the creation of mental images that can act as a memory prompt. Lynch refers to imageability as the “quality in a physical

Path A route along which people move in the city. They may be streets, walkways, transit lines, canals, railroads.

object which gives it a high probability of Fig 5. District

evoking a strong image in any given

This essay aims to focus on comparing

observer” (p. 9). This imageability is

two administrative regions of Barcelona

based on five specific elements; paths,

i.e. Barceloneta and Gràcia. These two

edges, districts, nodes and landmarks.

districts have been selected for analysis

Their meanings are confirmed as

based on their strength of character,

follows;

distinct difference in street layout and due to the fact that both areas are still

District Fig 6. Edge

08:00hrs and 20:00hrs to gain a more

An area characterised by common

authentic picture. The same observation

features. The observer can enter them

techniques were used in each area, the

mentally.

aim being to cover a representative process used was based on taking an intuitively selected route and reacting to

continuity not used or considered as

presented stimuli. A random sampling

Landmark An external point of orientation usually an easily identifiable physical object in the urban landscape.

Node A strategic focus point for orientation like squares and junctions. The

8

sample of both regions. The main

Boundaries and linear breaks in paths. They include shores, walls.

Fig 8. Node

be observed over five days between

A medium to large sections of a city.

Edge

Fig 7. Landmark

dominated by residents. The areas will

observer is able to enter into them.

method was selected so as to avoid bias. By exploring each element in the context of the two districts it is hoped to identify their significance and the contribution they may have in the districts navigability. This will be supported visually with illustrations that strengthen the argument.

Ultimately the aim will be to answer the question ‘How may Lynch’s five

elements support way-finding in Barceloneta and Gràcia’. Lynch remarks on how these five elements “must be patter ned together to provide a satisfying form” (Lynch, 1960 p.83). He also tells us that “nothing is experienced

Fig 9. Path

by itself, but always in relation to its surroundings” (Lynch, 1960 p1) but what hasn’t been raised is the level of importance of each element. Although the argument will be based around personal observations, additional evidence will be taken from Lynch’s own writing, that of his critics and other expert sources. The discussion will be based upon Lynch’s concept of city space on a vast scale as it is perceived over time.

Where language is specific to the subject, a glossary may be referred to (see page x).

9

BA

CK RO

G

UND

10

Background Barcelona is a city made up of eight administrative regions that can be seen on the illustration below (fig 10), each one having its own particular character and associations.

Vila de GrĂ cia

Eixample

Sant Antoni

e

bl

Po

Raval

c Se

Gòtic

Born

Barceloneta

Fig 10. Districts of Barcelona

11

Barceloneta Barceloneta is the smallest of the eight

development of industry and an increase

administrative regions of Barcelona, with

in population density (Public Space,

a population of 22,428 and a high site

2001). Workers were accommodated by

density of 700 dwellings per hectare

building upwards as space was already

(PBL: Turisme de Barcelona, 2014).

limited.

The urban structure is very ordered and repetitive based on rectilinear streets in a geometric pattern. There is no real open space and therefore a dependancy on the street for light and ventilation.

Buildings details are identical, even shops have the same doors and windows as houses making them indistinguishable (as seen in fig 11).

Fig 12. 1935 Pescadores faenando en La Barceloneta

Redevelopment helped by the ‘Law of the Coasts’ in 1994 has improved connections between residents and the seafront by creating a number of urban thoroughfares (Public Space, 2001).

Though there is concern that there is too much of a focus on gentrification and not enough provision for locals.

Fig 11. Typical Barceloneta street

During the 18th century Barceloneta was principally a fishing village (fig 12), an identity that the area continues to hold onto through its connection with the sea as well as Frank Gehry’s iconic fi s h s c u l p t u re o n B a rc e l o n e t a ’s promenade. The 19th century saw the

12

Gràcia Although much of Gràcia’s history is undocumented, we believe that the area was once linked to agriculture (Tapia, 2013). In 2003 the population was recorded as 119,216 (Geography Fieldwork, 2014).

Community has been a strong element in Gràcia for some time, historically

Fig 14. Typical Gràcia street

poorer communities would gather in the many church squares during mass. We

Gràcia is a region that honours many

still see these gatherings but in a more

historically significant Catalans, whether

recreational way.

it be through erecting a statue or renaming a street or square. Included in the many squares of Gràcia is one celebrating a famous novel written by Mercè Rodoreda which is set at the time of the Spanish Civil War, namely 'La Plaça del Diamant' (The Time of the Doves, 1962) (see fig 15). The impact of the war on the Catalan communities is still within living memory and the final

Fig 13. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia

Buildings can also indicate the social class of an area, the scale of the Town

statue in honour of Franco was not taken down until 2011, decades after his death.

Hall suggests Gràcia was not a wealthy district, and even though it is considered the most important square of the district, Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia is laid with a basic coloured tarmac (see fig 13). The streets are typically tight, dark a n d n a r ro w, w i t h d e v e l o p m e n t s extending upwards rather than outwards (see fig 14).

Fig 15. La plaça del Diamant el 1934

13

Fig 16. Street elevation, Barceloneta highlighting building heights, street furniture, fenestration and scale

Fig 17. Street elevation, GrĂ cia highlighting building heights, street furniture, fenestration and scale

14

Fig 18. 1:200 cross section of a typical Barceloneta street

Fig 19. 1:100 cross section of a typical

Fig 20. Typical furniture found within Gràcia

Gràcia street

15

PA

TH 16

Path Lynch defines paths as networks of

imageability and way finding (p.96). A

possible lines of movement. The path

destination and/or starting point can

does not stand alone, it includes the

help to provoke the mental mapping of a

environment surrounding it. This helps to

p a t h s y s t e m ( s e e fi g s 2 1 , 2 2 ) .

give a strong identity and create a sense

Determining the length of the path to be

of the whole. Paths form a large part of

travelled was subconsciously made

our urban cities, and Barcelona is no

using nodes and landmarks as opposed

exception. Lynch confirms this by

to approximating distance. Where a

Fig 22. The length of the path

stating “The paths, the network of

special feature or landmark could be

is determined by nodes and

habitual or potential lines of movement

identified in close proximity, the

through the urban complex, are the

importance of the path was often

most potent means by which the whole

increased. This suggests that Lynch’s

can be ordered” (Lynch, 1960 p.96).

five elements are strengthened by each

landmarks

other.

As a non resident of Barcelona, mapping the paths of both districts was

Barceloneta has a strong grid layout,

Fig 23. Paths can be linear or

challenging. Lynch points out that the

highlighting a regular and somewhat

angular

more a path is used, the greater its

predictable pattern (see fig 24). The

Fig 24. Paths form a strong network within a district

Fig 21. Carrer de Torrijos, Gràcia directs pedestrians between the church of Sant Joan de Gràcia and the districts’ other streets and squares

17

repeated structure of paths forms a

planting...could reinforce a path image

strong network though many of these

very effectively” (p.51). Although planting

streets lack hierarchy (fig 25). Although

was featured in street planters and tree

the streets can be mapped to some

pits, their appearance was somewhat

extent, distinguishing them from one

uniformed across the city and so made

a n o t h e r w a s d i f fi c u l t . A s Ly n c h

it difficult to identify a path using this

comments, a street needs to have a

method (see fig 27).

special use or activity in order for it to have prominence and strengthen the Fig 25. Typical path structure of Barceloneta

image.

Names also play a role in the identity of paths. ‘Gran de Gràcia’ and ‘Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta’ both provide clues as to the area in which the subject is travelling through. This adds an identity not only to the said path but also to the entire city image.

Fig 26. Typical path structure of Gràcia

Fig 28. Gran de Gràcia, Gràcia

Clearly paths are complex elements that form the basis for navigability. As

Building design and form can help to

creatures of habit, no matter how many

guide the subject. A repeated style or

paths are available it is highly probable

shape may act as a way finding tool and

that we will select and use those that are

create a continuity to the path. As a

accustomed, familiar routes. “Habit is

visitor, there was a natural pull towards

behaviour that has become more or less

the mainstream of traffic. These paths

automatic. There is a gradual shift in

were often wider and lighter and could

cognitive control to automatic

be seen as more important in the

processes...habits require behaviour to

hierarchy. ‘Gran de Gràcia’ (fig

be carried out repeatedly with the same

28) featured a significant number

contextual cues.” (Nilsen et al, 2012 p.

of retail outlets, which gave the

1) .

impression of a linear district.

Nienhuis (2011 p.1) points out that

Fig 27. Planters lined many of Barcelona’s streets

18

Lynch refers to planting as being

routes taken can be as a result of the

able to reinforce a path’s image,

existence of a psychogeography flow.

noting that “details of planting

He states that “every man made

seemed...to be relatively

environment has a psychogeography,

unimportant, but a great deal of

but familiarity often obscures it.”

Major Path Minor Path

Fig 29. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting path elements of Barceloneta

Major Path Minor Path

Fig 30. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting path elements of GrĂ cia

19

Carrer de Sant Miquel,

Carrer de Balboa, Barceloneta

Barceloneta

Carrer de l’Almirall Aixada,

Carrer d’Alcanar, Barceloneta

Barceloneta

Carrer de Meer, Barceloneta

Carrer de l’Almirall Churruca, Barceloneta

Fig 31. Diagram showing typical street elevations of Barceloneta

20

Carrer d’Astúries, Gràcia

Carrer de la Perla, Gràcia

Carrer de l’Esglesia, Gràcia

Carrer de Torrijos, Gràcia

Carrer de la Mare de Déu Carrer Gran de Gràcia, Gràcia

dels Desemparats, Gràcia

Fig 32. Diagram showing typical street elevations of Gràcia

21

ED

GE

22

Edge Lynch says that edges are linear

seam joining Gràcia with its surrounding

elements that are not considered as

districts (see figs 33, 37).

p a t h s s u c h a s w a t e r, r a i l ro a d s , topography, throughways and district

Barceloneta similarly featured edges on

boundaries. Though sometimes they

the outer perimeter of the district though

can act ambiguously as a linear node,

these created a much more concealed

edge or path for various people at

environment. Lynch states that edges

various times of day (fig 35). “If an

are strongest when they are visually

important edge is provided with many

prominent and impenetrable to cross

visual and circulation connections to the

movement. This is highlighted perfectly

rest of the city structure then it becomes

in three of the edges that

a feature to which everything else is

border Barceloneta, each

easily aligned” (Lynch, 1960 p.100).

one aligned with the

Fig 35. an edge can simultaneously be a path

seafront (see figs 34, 36).

An additional edge is towards the North of the district and is created by ‘Passeig de Joan de

Fig 36. The edge of Barceloneta is

Borbó’ a busy road cutting through the

formed from the seafront

Old Town of Barcelona and the old Fig 33. The edge of Gràcia formed by Gran de

fishing port that is Barceloneta.

Gràcia

When studying the district of Gràcia, it became clear that the major edges were those bordering the district, in particular ‘Via Augusta’, ‘Avinguida Diagonal’ and ‘Travessera De Dalt’. These streets were noticeably wider and carried a greater number of vehicles on a more frequent basis. Though it should be said that although these were identified as edges, their function was less about creating a pedestrian divide and instead acted as a

Fig 34. Barceloneta’s sea front edge

At one point within the text ‘Image of the C i t y ’ , Ly n c h ( 1 9 6 0 ) a p p e a r s t o contradict himself. We are told that

Fig 37. An edge can define two districts

23

“those edges seem strongest which

greater scale, uncovering the entire city

are...impenetrable to cross

of Barcelona, it is likely that different

movement” (p.62) though he later

edges would have been identified due to

comments that “one way of increasing

more significant changes in land form,

the visibility of an edge is by increasing

train lines located and a greater number

its accessibility” (p.100). These remarks

of district boundaries highlighted.

confirm that there is no strict formula in Fig 38. An edge can indicate a

identifying elements such as edges and

If edges were to be rated on a hierarchy

directional quality

each area of study will vary as to how it

it is my belief that they could be seen as

is interpreted. Cityscapes rarely stay the

less important to navigating as a

same and therefore there is the distinct

consequence of them being

possibility of edges developing and

impenetrable. In order to navigate a

newly defined ones forming.

place we have to be able to move through it making edges an unlikely

Lynch remarks that edges can fragment an area and create divides. As few edges have been identified this could confirm how each district is made navigable. Those edges located have been at the district edge and not had an impact on the imageability of each district (such as Gran de Gràcia see fig 39). Had the study taken place at a

Fig 39. Gran de Gràcia acts as a strong edge to the district as well as a path

24

element to prioritise.

Major Edge Minor Edge

Fig 40. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting edge elements of Barceloneta

Major Edge Minor Edge

Fig 41. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting edge elements of GrĂ cia

25

DI ST ICT

R 26

District Lynch refers to districts as character

and narrow, shading the dominantly

areas that have shared features that

pedestrian streets, a significant number

separate them from the rest of the

of frontages were decoratively painted

environment. He goes on to say that

often in earthy tones with the city’s flag

each district has its own unique image,

displayed proudly from the many

some being stronger than others. This

balconies. Though on closer

was evident in Barceloneta and Gràcia where history had shaped them in different ways; Barceloneta with its maritime links and Gràcia, the district that was once a proud independent town. According to Lynch, districts may be recognised internally or externally and may be identified by theme, for instance a style of architecture, a form of decor or use of colour, cultural characteristic, a distinctive boundary.

Lynch believes that “social connotations a re q u i t e s i g n i fi c a n t i n b u i l d i n g regions” (p.68), suggesting that it is the people of the district who determine its true character.

In his book, Image of a City, Lynch states that good physical characteristics have continuities and are homogenous such as in materials, textures, uses and inhabitants. We are told that it is features such as these that create distinct districts that in turn contribute to a city’s wholeness. As a visitor to Barcelona, first impressions of each district were that of individual

Fig 42. The district of Barceloneta features a strong grid system,

homogeneity. Buildings appeared tall

with streets leading to the sea

27

examination and subsequent visits,

painted buildings of towering scale,

details of differences between the two

elaborate iron work, painted shutters;

districts could be distinguished.

bustling with middle class pedestrians (illustrated in fig 45). Although its soft

Fig 43. A district can have a soft or hard boundary

Gràcia (see fig 44) could be described

boundary allows it to connect to the

as being extrovert as it has a strong

surrounding elements it can present a

presence embraced by three other

degree of uncertainty as to where it lies

districts. It also has a rich political history

precisely.

and was once seen as a separate town to Barcelona, confirming that historical

Barceloneta (seen in fig 42) contrasts

reference can influence the shaping of a

with this. Included in its image is narrow

district. The Gràcia image is made up of

streets, modestly painted building

gradually inclined streets, ornately

facades of an imposing scale, traditional

Fig 44. Gràcia, once the 8th largest city in Spain is now part of Barcelona

28

fenestration; quiet streets, bustling squares; and pedestrians from working class backgrounds (see fig 46). The bars, cafes and mini-marts that line the junctions of the streets create a rhythm and strengthen the image of the district.

There is no doubt that Barceloneta’s hard boundary reinforces its identity as well as its historical association as an old fishing port. When viewed directly or from a map Barceloneta could be considered as being less connected than Gràcia, implying that it is a more introverted region.

The use of names adds to the strength of association with a district as was

Fig 45. Ornate facades and varied building heights are typi-

witnessed during the Spanish civil war

cal of the Gràcia district

when Franco changed the language for street signs from Catalan to Castilian in an attempt to destroy the Catalan culture. Some forty years later, street names were replaced with ones that suggest the character of the people. As Lynch points out “names...are important in crystallising identity” (p.108). Gràcia’s fiercely protective nature is emphasised with street names including ‘Llibertat’, ‘Fraternitat’ and ‘Progèss’. This could be seen as a slow change in the identity of the district. Some more rapid changes have also occurred in the development of many of the district’s public squares. Although these changes have had some impact on the identity of

Fig 46. One of the many parallel streets in Barceloneta

Gràcia, the boundary remains in tact.

proudly displaying the Catalan flag from one of the few private balconies

29

Barceloneta saw some rapid changes in time for the city’s hosting of the Olympic Games in 1992, however these didn’t transform the main core of the district.

Instead developments were made around the periphery, giving the Fig 47 The district of

impression of the formation of a new

Barceloneta is recognised by

district, creating a split identity

its strong grid system

(illustrated in fig 49).

Fig 49 Barceloneta could be seen to have two sub districts

Once in a district, it is the remaining four elements that dictate the way a person navigates the space, leaving the district behind as a forgotten element. Had this Fig 48 Gràcia’s district has a strong connection with the adjoining regions

been viewed from a city scale then the district would take a different defining role.

30

Major District

Fig 50. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the district of Barceloneta

Major District

Fig 51. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the district of GrĂ cia

31

Fig 52. Figure/Ground Plan of Barceloneta

10m

Fig 53. Plan of typical area of Barceloneta

32

Fig 54. Figure/Ground Plan of Gràcia

10m

Fig 55. Plan of typical area of Gràcia

33

NO

DE 34

Node Lynch (1960 p.72) refers to nodes as

Curiously a node does not need a

being “strategic foci into which the

strong physical presence but Lynch

observer can enter” and act as “the

makes it known that a defined space

conceptual anchor points in our

makes the experience more memorable

cities.” (p. 102). When a city is as large

(such as Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia - fig

as Barcelona the size of nodes may vary

56). There are different techniques for

tremendously and may include junctions

creating and accentuating space. This

(fig 58), transport hubs and city squares

could be through light management,

(fig 59) or even the centre of a city

surface gradient, screening or pattern

centre. Lynch points out that the more a

(see fig 57). However there is a point

node is used, the stronger its identity is.

where space may lose its definition as

Fig 58. Nodes can include junctions

with some of the vast concourses where walls and floors are continuously lined with a ubiquitous polished stone offering little distinction or character in the way the space is used.

Fig 56. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia, Gràcia features a landmark within a node, giving it definition

When discussing imageability Lynch is keen to point out that those places that have distinctive character or prompt a

Fig 57. A rare sighting of distinctive patterned paving in Barceloneta

heightened sense of awareness and

Lynch believes that nodes can be

concentration, such as major junctions,

described as introvert or extrovert. An

lend themselves to association with

introverted node may give little indication

nodes. There is a significant pattern in

of the area immediately around it

Gràcia where each Metro station is

whereas an extrovert node may provide

located within proximity of a square,

clear signs and connections to

almost ‘pairing up’ nodes (fig 66).

those areas extending from it. Gràcia

Although this is not the case in

has many examples of introvert nodes,

Barceloneta where only two Metros

primarily those of public squares. The

feature on one edge of the district.

weaving pattern of streets means that

Fig 59.. Nodes can take the form of city squares

35

there are few opportunities to have a

It is possible for the node to be hinted at

visual connection with the neighbouring

on approach with the use of contrasting

districts (fig 60).

paving materials, though most of the paving featured in both districts is of a

Fig 60. Gràcia features many introvert nodes

In contrast, Barceloneta features more

similar material or style, making it difficult

extrovert nodes (fig 61), one of which is

to use as a defining entry point. Similarly,

Plaça del Poeta Bosca (fig 62). Having a

trees may contribute to the distinctive

strong link with the seafront and old

character of a node (fig 65). Many of

town due to the areas linear grid street

Gràcia and Barceloneta’s streets and

system allows the subject to easily

squares feature trees, the species

navigate using imageability, whether that

differing depending on the location.

be consciously or subconsciously.

Plaça de la Maquinista in Barceloneta features Citrus x sinensis, allowing this nodal space to form its own identity (fig 63).

A series of nodes may relate to a path or edge and can structure city regions. We can see that this is the case in Gràcia and to a lesser extent in Barceloneta where the distribution of the Metro

Fig 62. Plaça del Poeta Bosca, Barceloneta

Fig 61. Barceloneta’s urban form includes extrovert nodes

36

Fig 63. Plaça de la Maquinista, Barceloneta

stations ‘punctuates’ the district, offering

a place to evaluate a journey or make a decision. Each metro acts as a sense of arrival as it is often a place of break in transportation. It is also worth noting that each metro station is placed on the edge of the district, emphasising the entry (or exit). Bus stops work in a similar way, although these stand out less so, as their surroundings can often lack visual stimuli. Another perspective is thinking of the bus stops as being connected together as a linear shape.

Fig 65. Plaça de Trilla, Gràcia has a distinctive character through the choice of paving and tree planting

M Fig 64. Junctions of Barceloneta offer the opportunity to stop and reconsider the journey

By examining the nodes of Barceloneta

M

and Gràcia at this scale it is evident that while their function is principally the same the distribution is very different.

Nodes are an important element,

M

particularly if extrovert and appear to work most successfully when in partnership with paths (see fig 64.

Introvert nodes may have less presence and therefore less hierarchical rating.

M Fig 66. Gràcia metro stations in relation to squares

37

Major Node Minor Node

Fig 67. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the nodes of Barceloneta

Major Node Minor Node

Fig 68. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the nodes of GrĂ cia

38

LAN DM AR

K

39

Landmark Landmarks within Barceloneta and

damaged in the civil war, so it seems

Gràcia punctuate the urban cityscape

quite natural to identify them as valued

offering the reassuring potential for way

landmarks given their place in history (fig

finding (see figs 69-70). Lynch offers no

71). More recently, in some existing

set formula for the distribution of

squares new prestigious sculptures have

landmarks, though we do know that

been added, used as a focus of

stand out against their

there are preferred conditions linked with

attention, where eyes previously passed

background

their effectiveness including emotional

by. Lynch confirms this by remarking

associations. The key to landmarks is

that “once a history...or a meaning

singularity, based on contrast, space

attaches to an object, its value as a

and distinctness. We are told that a

landmark rises” (p81).

Fig 69. Landmarks often

landmark does not have to be large, though “the spatial setting must allow it to be seen” (p.101).

Almost 80% of the population of Fig 70. A tall building is unmistakable in the cityscape

Barcelona are Roman Catholic (Cheney, 2013) creating an inexorable link with community identity. Combined with that,

Fig 71. Church of Sant Miquel del Port, Plaça de la

George Orwell (1986) points out that

Barceloneta, Barceloneta is one of many places of

most of the churches in Barcelona were

worship in the city

Fig 72. Gràcia’s market acts as a landmark to navigate the district

40

As Lynch (1960 p.78) states “Landmarks become more easily identifiable...if they have a clear form (and) if they contrast with their background...” Both districts feature landmarks that fit this criteria, though depending on the subject’s perception the significance may differ. The

Fig 73. Barceloneta’s market stands out against the tall, more uniform buildings lining the square

sweeping rooftop of Gràcia’s market building suggests a strong protective presence and while the building height is limited and it barely stands apart from those buildings that surround it there is no doubting the assertion that this landmark has (fig 72). Its unique and distinctive exterior represents a compass point to orientate from.

Similarly Barceloneta’s single storey market with its contemporary sculptural relief wall sets it apart as it stands as a landmark for locals and visitors alike (fig Fig 74. The clock tower of Gràcia

73).

could be considered a landmark both day and night

The instantly recognisable clock tower located in the Plaça de Vila de Gràcia has strong associations with the traditions and political history of the past (fig 74). It has a clear form and stands apart from other buildings with its upper sections framed by the sky, setting off its decorative stone and brick work. At night especially the illuminated clock face draws the eye upward beyond the building skyline. There is a distinctive arch in Barceloneta (fig 75) that has some parallels in that it has a clear form

Fig 75. Barceloneta’s imposing

though unlike the clock it draws the eye

archway has a similar effect to Gràcia’s clock tower

41

Fig 77, 78, 79 Perhaps it says something about the Catalan character that these ubiquitous signs have been put to alternative use and now act as landmarks although not at the optimum visual level.

through and not up, framing the view

that these ubiquitous signs have been

into the distance as it extends to

put to alternative use and now act as

vanishing point. This imposing archway

landmarks although not at the optimum

is designed for pedestrians to walk

visual level (see figs 77-79).

beneath and enables them to morph into its protective arc. Lynch points out

Lynch points out that a contrast in

that when a landmark is at a place

material and background is often what

where paths cross, such as here, it

makes a landmark. Within both districts

increases in value and effect.

in question, new developments have occurred on the edges, often using

Fig 76. Landmarks can form a casual sequence

As well as single individual landmarks,

modern materials such as reflective

shops and bars at junctions may

glass and steel. When the landmark in

punctuate in landmark clusters or

concern takes its place because it is

groups. Individually such sightings may

impressively clad, it can draw attention,

present as weak and need sustained

as with ‘gasNatural’ in Barceloneta.

concentration but as Lynch notes

Michel de Lange (2009) questions

grouped on a continuum they may offer

reaching a point where every building

familiar comfort and even mark out a

wants to announce its existence by

total journey. This is the case in

yelling ‘look at me’. Due to the narrow

Barceloneta where the pattern of grid

streets and existing buildings, incredibly

like streets can appear as a whole.

these towers can often be missed.

Lynch tells us that seeing the landmark

42

Graffiti and street art once thought of as

from a distance does not necessarily

vandalism can present humour and

make it easy to locate at ground level.

mischief in unexpected places as is the

Even so they continue to act as

case with the embellished ‘no entry’

markers, projecting into the sky, visible

traffic signs in Gràcia. Perhaps it says

from great distances and often in

something about the Catalan character

clusters, reinforcing their presence.

Barceloneta’s ‘gasNatural’ sky scraper is immediately identifiable (see fig 80).

Seen close up its highly reflective sections play with the senses creating intrigue and mystery. A futuristic form imposed on a historic sight draws attention by its playful light reflections almost forbidding nostalgic referencing to the old fishing village.

Urban landmarks may represent recent o r p a s t h i s t o r y. M u c h l i k e t h e communities who use them they evolve and their relevance is and will continue to be subjective. As someone new to the districts, landmarks were most v a l u a b l e w h e re t h e y w e re m o s t distinctive, though it is probable that given time, less conspicuous features would form part of the memory map.

The importance of landmarks could be said to be measured on a sliding scale dependent on the significance to the

Fig 61.

individual. George Gartner (2005) tells us that landmarks are associated with

Fig 80. gasNatural stands out dramatically from the surrounding buildings of Barceloneta

avoiding getting lost. Bearing in mind Lynch’s link with way finding and the reassurance gained by mental mapping, for many they will present an opportunity to navigate and feel safe. Ironically, landmarks viewed at a distance can be difficult to locate as was my experience when trying to locate a celebrated church within Gràcia.

43

gasNatural Tower Market

Arch

Gasworks

Church of Sant Miquel del Port

Fish Sculpture Cable Car

Major Landmark Minor Landmark

Fig 81. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the landmarks of Barceloneta

Contemporary Arena

Sculpture

Church of Sant Joan de GrĂ cia Steeple Graffiti Sign

Clock Tower

Town

Market

Hall

Major Landmark Minor Landmark

Fig 82. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the landmarks of GrĂ cia

44

CON CL US ION 45

Conclusion Empirical evidence confirms that each

has a dramatic coastal edge

district contains the five elements

contributing to its strength and definition

associated with Lynch’s theory on

unlike Gràcia's softer less defined

imageability and mental mapping and as

edges. Each area has purposeful nodes

may be expected they contribute to the

acting as anchors and each district

distinct character of each area.

presents a unique character. Notably the larger metro linked nodes are more

We know that some Lynchean elements

dominant within inland Gràcia, all of

in Barceloneta and Gràcia have proved

these elements being interspersed with

Fig 83. Balconies featured on

to be memorable and therefore more

characterful landmarks.

many of the city streets

imageable not because of their visual stimuli but because of some personal,

It is highly probable that "different

historical or cultural reason. For instance

observers will all find perceptual material

Gràcia's clock tower has strong

which is congenial to looking at their

associations for the community and is

own particular way of the world" (Lynch,

much more than a timepiece. Bin Jiang

1960 p.111). As for finding the material

(2012) refers to mental maps as being

for way finding; Barceloneta and Gràcia

shared by a number of people. It is

each have their own distinctive

possible that a number of people can

communities, unique environments and

share the same experience and respond

rich history with strong imageability.

Fig 84. Ornate facades can

similarly to the same stimuli, as was no

act as landmarks

doubt the case during the Spanish Civil War. Of course the contra is also possible. Generally it is understood that imageability is based on concepts presented followed by an individuals perception.

There is no doubt that within each element there is the potential for a

Fig 85. A rendering detail on a

hierarchy of status as may be deduced

street corner of Gràcia aids in

from the broader East to West grid

the mapping process

paths of Barceloneta or any other dominant well used path. Barceloneta

46

Major Path Minor Path

Major Edge Minor Edge

Major District

Major Node Minor Node Major Landmark Minor Landmark

Fig 86. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the five elements of Barceloneta

Major Path Minor Path

Major Edge Minor Edge

Major District

Major Node Minor Node Major Landmark Minor Landmark

Fig 87. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the five elements of GrĂ cia

47

GLO S S ARY 48

Glossary District

A medium to large sections of a city. An area characterised by common features.

The observer can enter them mentally.

Edge

Boundaries and linear breaks in continuity not used or considered as paths. They include shores, walls.

Element

A component part used to construct a mental map namely; path, edge, district, node, landmark.

Extrovert

Clear signs and connections to extending areas.

(Re elements) Franquismo

Period of dictatorship of Spain under General Franco.

Gentrification

Renewal and rebuilding accompanying the influx of affluent people into deteriorating areas.

Image

The generalised mental picture of the exterior physical world that is held by an individual. It includes identity, structure and meaning.

Imageability

The extent to which a cityscape can be read.

Introvert

Little indication of the area immediately around it.

(Re: elements) Landmark

An external point of orientation usually an easily identifiable physical object in the urban landscape.

Mental Mapping

A process that represents the perceptions and knowledge that a person has of a particular area.

Navigability

The ease with which someone can find their way around.

Node

A strategic focus point for orientation like squares and junctions. The observer is able to enter into them.

Path

A route along which people move in the city. They may be streets, walkways, transit lines, canals, railroads.

Psychogeography

The study of the specific effects of the geographical environment, consciously organised or not, on the emotions and behaviour of individuals.

Wayfinding

A process that represents the perceptions and knowledge that a person has of a particular area.

Source: Lynch, 1960

49

REFE

REN

CING 50

Referencing Text Cheney, D. 2013. Archdiocese of Barcelona [Online]. Catholic Hierarchy. Available from: http://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dbrcs.html [Accessed 30 December 2013].

Coverley, M. 2010. Psychogeography. Harpenden: Pocket Essentials De Lange. 2009. Review: Kevin Lynch - The Image of the City [Online]. The Mobile City. Available from: http://www.themobilecity.nl/2009/05/08/review-kevin-lynchthe-image-of-the-city/ [Accessed 1 April 2014].

Geography Fieldwork. 2014. Variations in Population Density in Barcelona [Online].

Geography Fieldwork. Available from: http://geographyfieldwork.com/ PopDensity.htm [Accessed 10 February 2014].

Lynch, K. 1960. The Image of the City. Massachusetts: MIT Press Nienhuis, D. 2011. Small Town Drift [Online]. Critical Themes. Available from: http:// www.criticalthemes.net/2011/tag/kevin-lynch/ [Accessed 10 November 2013].

Nilsen, P., Roback, K., Broström, A., Ellström, P. 2012. Creatures of Habit: Accounting for the role of habit in implementation research on clinical behaviour change [Online]. Implementation science. Available from: http:// www.implementationscience.com/content/7/1/53 [Accessed 18 April 2014].

Orwell, G. 2003. Homage to Catalonia. London: Penguin Books PBL. 2014. The Barceloneta [Online]. PBL: Turisme de Barcelona. Available from: https://sites.google.com/site/pblturismedebarcelona1/english/la-barceloneta [Accessed 20 March 2014].

Public Space. 2001. Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta [Online]. Public Space.

Available from: http://www.publicspace.org/en/works/b081-passeig-maritim-de-labarceloneta-2a-fase [Accessed 22 February 2014].

Tapia, M. 2013. Discussion on Barcelona and its history [Guided tour] (Personal Communication 5 November 2013).

51

Referencing Images Fig 1. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça de la Virreina 1. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 2. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça de la Virreina 2. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 3. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça de la Virreina 3. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 4. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça de la Virreina using Lynch’s imageability theory [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 5. Bury, S. 2013. District based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 6. Bury, S. 2013. Edge based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 7. Bury, S. 2013. Landmark based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 8. Bury, S. 2013. Node based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 9. Bury, S. 2013. Path based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 10. Bury, S. 2013. Districts of Barcelona [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 11. Bury, S. 2013. Typical Barceloneta street [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 12. Vilchez, T. 2011. 1935 Pescadores faenando en La Barceloneta [photograph] Available at: http://mtvo-lasmentiras.blogspot.co.uk/2011/04/paufreixes-pescador-de-la-barceloneta.html [Accessed 23 April 2014].

Fig 13. David. 2010. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia [photograph] Available at: https:// www.flickr.com/photos/dondu/ [Accessed 23 April 2014].

Fig 14. Bury, S. 2013. Typical Gràcia street [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 15. Barcelonallibres. 2013. La plaça del Diamant el 1934 [photograph] Available at: http://www.barcelonallibres.cat/2013/03/la-placa-del-diamant.html [Accessed 23 April 2014].

52

Fig 16. Bury, S. 2013. Street elevation, Barceloneta highlighting building heights, street furniture, fenestration and scale. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 17. Bury, S. 2013. Street elevation, Gràcia highlighting building heights, street furniture, fenestration and scale. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 18. Bury, S. 2013. 1:200 cross section of a typical Barceloneta street. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 19. Bury, S. 2013. 1:100 cross section of a typical Gràcia street. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 20. Bury, S. 2013. Typical furniture found within Gràcia. [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 21. Bury, S. 2013. Carrer de Torrijos, Gràcia directs pedestrians between the church of Sant Joan de Gràcia and the districts other streets and squares [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 22. Bury, S. 2013. The length of the path is determined by nodes and landmarks based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 23. Bury, S. 2013. Paths can be linear or angular based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 24. Bury, S. 2013. Paths form a strong network within a district based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 25. Bury, S. 2013. Typical path structure of Barceloneta based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 26. Bury, S. 2013. Typical path structure of Gràcia based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 27. Bury, S. 2013. Planters lined many of Barcelona’s streets [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 28. Bury, S. 2013. Gran de Gràcia, Gràcia [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 29. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting path elements of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection)

53

Fig 30. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting path elements of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 31. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram showing typical street elevations of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 32. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram showing typical street elevations of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 33. Bury, S. 2013. The edge of Gràcia formed by Gran de Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 34. Bury, S. 2013. Barceloneta’s sea front edge [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 35. Bury, S. 2013. Edge based on Kevin Lynch’s notation illustrating how an edge can simultaneously be a path [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 36. Bury, S. 2013. The edge of Barceloneta is formed from the seafront [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 37. Bury, S. 2013. Edge based on Kevin Lynch’s notation illustrating the definition of two districts [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 38. Bury, S. 2013. Edge based on Kevin Lynch’s notation highlighting directional quality [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 39. Bury, S. 2013. Gran de Gràcia acts as a strong edge to the district as well as a path [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 40. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting edge elements of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 41. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting edge elements of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 42. Bury, S. 2013. The district of Barceloneta features a strong grid system, with streets leading to the sea [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 43. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch showing that a district can have a soft or hard boundary [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 44. Bury, S. 2013. Gràcia, once the 8th largest city in Spain is now part of Barcelona [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

54

Fig 45. Bury, S. 2013. Ornate facades and varied building heights are typical of the Gràcia district [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 46. Bury, S. 2013. One of the many parallel streets in Barceloneta proudly displaying the Catalan flag from one of the few private balconies [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 47. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch indicating that the district of Barceloneta is recognised by its strong grid system [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 48. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch showing that Gràcia’s district has a strong connection with the adjoining regions [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 49. Bury, S. 2013. Barceloneta could be seen to have two sub districts [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 50. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the district of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 51. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the district of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 52. Bury, S. 2013. Figure/Ground plan of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 53. Bury, S. 2013. Plan of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 54. Bury, S. 2013. Figure/Ground plan of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 55. Bury, S. 2013. Plan of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 56. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia, Gràcia features a landmark within a node, giving it definition [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 57. Bury, S. 2013. A rare sighting of distinctive patterned paving in Barceloneta [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 58. Bury, S. 2013. Nodes can include junctions, based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 59. Bury, S. 2013. Nodes can take the form of city squares, based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

55

Fig 60. Bury, S. 2013. Gràcia features many introvert nodes, based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 61. Bury, S. 2013. Barceloneta’s urban form includes extrovert nodes, based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 62. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça del Poeta Bosca [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 63. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça de la Maquinista, Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 64. Bury, S. 2013. Junctions of Barceloneta offer the opportunity to stop and reconsider the journey [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 65. Bury, S. 2013. Plaça de Trilla, Gràcia has a distinctive character through the choice of paving and tree planting [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 66. Bury, S. 2013. Gràcia metro stations in relation to squares [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 67. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the nodes of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 68. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the nodes of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 69. Bury, S. 2013. Landmarks often stand out against their background, based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 70. Bury, S. 2013. A tall building is unmistakable in the cityscape, based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 71. Bury, S. 2013. Church of Sant Miquel del Port, Plaça de la Barceloneta, Barceloneta is one of many places of worship in the city [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 72. Bury, S. 2013. Gràcia’s market acts as a landmark to navigate the district [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 73. Bury, S. 2013. Barceloneta’s market stands out against the tall, more uniform buildings lining the square [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 74. Bury, S. 2013. The clock tower of Gràcia could be considered a landmark both day and night [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

56

Fig 75. Bury, S. 2013. Barceloneta’s imposing archway has a similar effect to Gràcia’s clock tower [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 76. Bury, S. 2013. Landmarks can form a casual sequence, based on Kevin Lynch’s notation [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 77. Bury, S. 2013. Perhaps it says something about the Catalan character that these ubiquitous signs have been put to alternative use and now act as landmarks although not at the optimum visual level 1. [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 78. Bury, S. 2013. Perhaps it says something about the Catalan character that these ubiquitous signs have been put to alternative use and now act as landmarks although not at the optimum visual level 2. [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 79. Bury, S. 2013. Perhaps it says something about the Catalan character that these ubiquitous signs have been put to alternative use and now act as landmarks although not at the optimum visual level 3. [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 80. Bury, S. 2013. gasNatural stands out dramatically from the surrounding buildings of Barceloneta [photograph] (Authors own collection).

Fig 81. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the landmarks of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 82. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the landmarks of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 83. Bury, S. 2013. Balconies featured on many of the city streets [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 84. Bury, S. 2013. Ornate facades can act as landmarks [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 885. Bury, S. 2013. A rendering detail on a street corner of Gràcia aids in the mapping process [pen on paper] (Authors own collection).

Fig 86. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the five elements of Barceloneta [pen on paper] (Authors own collection) Fig 87. Bury, S. 2013. Diagram in the style of Lynch highlighting the five elements of Gràcia [pen on paper] (Authors own collection)

57