Grids, Score for Designing the City

Within the research on \”Revisiting the urban grids in the XXI century\”, this seminar will focus on the investigation of recent urbanistic projects which use the grid and its multiple variations as their main structural device for the construction of the city. The ultimate objective of the course is to develop new understanding of the way we are approaching the design of the City by means of \”grids and networks\”1. The historic evolution of the city can be tied to regular systems that have allowed for rational forms of development. Diverse cultures have provided varied interpretations of grid systems. Some previous Seminars done along 2008-09 establish some categories and vocabulary for the current step. 2. New spatial demands require more flexible and open ended systems. These new forms of urbanism favor loose or \”neutral\” yet efficient organizational systems that can accommodate diversity and change throughout extensive city densification and expansion. The research seminar will specifically focus on the following topics:A. reviewing conceptual framework: grid / block / mesh / matrix/ checkboard, etcB. research on seminal Projects (city fragments) creating new Design paradigms.C. Comparative studies between the various investigations in order to establish both individual research tracts and a collective agenda for the research group. The seminar is open to all students in GSD. Note that a high level of graphic skills is required. The seminar will meet regularly both as a group and in individual meetings with the instructor. Students will work individually and in groups of 2.Number of students is limited to 13.Schedule:This seminar will take place when Joan Busquets is in residence during the following dates:- January 18 to 25- February 6 to 15- February 27 to March 8- April 3 to 8- April 17 to 26- April 30 to May 4