LANDSCAPE LANDMARKS Using theories from Kevin Lynch’s ‘The Image of the City’, ‘Landscape Landmarks’ is a study of memorable elements in the Viennese landscape. These elements are given landmark status by their ability to shape and manipulate movement patterns in public spaces.
Simon Cording 150180432
LANDFORM
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WITHOUT
WU CAMPUS
FLAT TO UNDULATING The landform is defined as a landmark because it CONTRASTS the otherwise FLAT LANDSCAPE of the WU Campus. Located ADJACENT to the path, the landform creates a sense of fun and play that DISTRACTS and deviates people from the otherwise direct movement pattern.
“Spatial prominence can establish elements as landmarks...by setting up a local contrast with nearby elements” (Lynch, 1960, pg. 80)
WATER
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WITHOUT
WU CAMPUS
WATER IN A DRY LANDSCAPE The location of the water defines it as a landmark. Its placement OFF CENTER does not impede the main axial walk but instead ENTICES people to impulsively move off course to relax near the water. The large open space and encompassing buildings help frame the landmark, making it VISIBLE ON BOTH THE HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL PLANES.
“Landmark...location is crucial: if large or tall, the spatial setting must allow it to be seen” (Lynch, 1960, pg. 101)
VEGETATION
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WITHOUT
AUER-WELSBACH PARK Mariahilfer Strasse
DRAMA IN THE UNINSPIRING In a mass of vegetation, a singular element can become more significant as a landmark because of its CLARITY OF FORM. The IMMEDIACY of a different vegetation form can TRIGGER EMOTIONAL RESPONSES, creating stopping points, which can affect directional movement.
“Landmarks become more easily identifiable...if they have clear form” (Lynch, 1960, pg. 78)
STRUCTURAL
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WITHOUT
SEESTADT ASPERN
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A NODE IN A NEW TOWN The use of a structural element can create an INDICATOR for a core place of activity. Ideally located in a junction it definably becomes a landmark because it acts as a CENTRAL POINT to move to. Without a recognisable central feature, movement patterns change and become more random. The landmark is strengthened because it can be VIEWED FROM A DISTANCE
“Location at a junction involving path decisions strengthens a landmark” (Lynch, 1960, pg. 81)
REFERENCES Cullen, G. (1971) The Concise Townscape. New York, Routledge Lynch, K. (1960) The Image of the City. Massachusetts, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
“In the manipulation...the art of relationship is made possible” (Cullen, 1971)