Generative urban design module: Integrating space syntax and spatial cognition experimental methods

Traditional planning tools often fail to respond to the rapid changes of the urban context. In this paper we suggest to explore how new methods of spatial analysis together with advances in behavioural research of spatial cognition can be used to support an alternative approach, in which adaptive design systems are able to respond more accurately to the needs of the contemporary city and its dwellers. We present the results of the educational module, where quantitative research techniques, traditionally developed as part of Space Syntax, were introduced in conjunction with qualitative behavioural methods. Architecture students were familiarized with the basic techniques for evaluation of spatial configurations, including isovist, viewshed, axial mapping and visibility graph analysis. At the same time, they were presented with perceptual concepts from cognitive and environmental psychology, such as orientation, wayfinding, navigability and intelligibility. To analyse an urban site, to evaluate design outcomes and to compare alternatives, the students were taught methods used in research of human spatial cognition, such as observations, behavioural experiments, in-depth interviews, cognitive mapping and virtual reality tracking. Finally, these innovative methodologies were synthesized by use of parametrization and optimization frameworks to explore developing of generative design systems in urban domain.