G A R D E N S , C O M M U N I T I E S , PA R K S , U R B A N D E S I G N
A
B
Figure 6.20 Los Angeles Grand Park, by Rios Clementi Hale Studio, landscape architects.
A
B
Figure 6.21 A: Manzaneras Park, Madrid, Spain, by West 8; B: Parc Bercy, Paris, France.
Urban Design Urban design is another term with a broad definition with significant implications for the life and health of cities. It is the art and science of creating and giving shape to cities and towns—both large and small. Urban design, through the consideration of a complex range of subjects that work together, establishes a physical framework that organizes streets, blocks, and land uses. Urban designers also establish building groupings and densities, the location of public and private spaces, and all the physical elements that generate place-making or urban form where people live, work, or recreate. One can gain specialized academic preparation in the discipline of urban planning and design. The academic curriculum involves a range of subjects that includes economics, sociology, transportation planning, real estate development, government policy, and something broadly called urban design. In practice, urban design blends architecture, landscape architecture, city planning, and engineering. 127
