CU and RM_

C+U
RM
Sagar V. Nikam
2360129
Manchester School of Architecture
MA Architecture & Urbanism

Copyright © 2023
All Rights Reserved
Manchester School of Architecture
Manchester Metropolitan University
University of Manchester
Author:
Sagar V. Nikam
No part of publication may be reproduced. Stored in a retrievel system,
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronics, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior permission of
copyright owner.
text..
The document comprises works from two modules: Cities and Urbanism, and Research Methodologies. It serves
as a compilation, with the first part encompassing a book review of “Grand Urban Rules” by Alex Lehnerer, an
essay integrating insights from the book and other urban theorists, and an exploration of its implications. This
section also includes a case study focusing on the chawl neighborhood in Mumbai.
The second part delves into my master’s experience, reflecting on my home city and summarizing the academic
learnings during the program. The document concludes by detailing the research methods and approach
developed for my urban design project and dissertation.

Contents
01. CITIES AND URBANISM: IDEOLOGIES AND FUTURES
02. Research Methodologies and Events
Book Review Essay
Journey Through Urbanism: Exploring Identities, Spaces, and Perspectives
1. Grand Urban Rules- Alex Lehnerer
7
1. Background
30
2. Understanding Urban Neighborhoods: Insights form Alex Lehnerer and Jane Jacobs
18
2. Understanding Individual and Spatial Identity
32
2.1.Exploring Chawl Neighborhoods in Mumbai through the Perspective of Jane Jacobs
3. Exploring narratives of the cities in UK
34
2.2. Creating a Framework for Urban Rules
4. Reflection to roots
36
2.3. Conclusion
5. Conclusion
37
3. Bibliography
27
6. Bibliography
38

1CITIES
AND URBANISM: IDEOLOGIES AND FUTURES
Book Review Essay
6 7

1. GRAND URBAN RULES
Alex Lehnerer
Lehnerer’s book, “Grand Urban Rules,” published in 2009, showcases his expertise as an architect and urban
designer based in Zurich, Switzerland. The book is divided into two main parts. The first part provides a detailed
description of 115 rules, each accompanied by a reference number for easy identification. In the second part,
Lehnerer offers thorough explanations, illustrations, and examples that further elucidate and expand upon these
rules. The second part is organized logically into ten well-structured chapters, each exploring different important
aspects of the rules. Through the use of the fictional city of Averuni as a case study, Lehnerer demonstrates how
these rules can be universally applied to solve a wide range of urban design challenges. He investigates several
real-world cities with similar urban characteristics and issues to Averuni, presenting in-depth case studies from
various locations across the USA, Europe, and Asia. These case studies contribute significantly to the development
of a comprehensive set of regulations that not only have administrative value but also help describe the city
and shape its future development, as envisioned years ago. Lehnerer emphasizes that rules possess relative
permanence over time, necessitating calibrated revisions to ensure the long-term vibrancy and diversity of the
city as needs change.
Fig. 1. Alex Lehnerer (soruce - trienaldelisboa.com)
Alexander Lehnerer is renowned for his critical and
theoretical approach to architecture and urbanism, with a
particular focus on the political and social context of the built
environment. His work, including the article “Power, Planning,
and Urban Design” (2016) and a lecture on “Architecture
and its Relationship to Power” at Harvard University, delves
deeply into the intricate connections between architecture,
power dynamics, politics, and society. Through these works,
Lehnerer demonstrates his expertise in analyzing how power
structures influence the design of the built environment and
shape people’s experiences of urban spaces.
Fig.2. Cover, Grand Urban Rules (2009)
8 MSA MA + AU
9

Fig.3. Frequent and often belated changes of the building height limitations in Chicago (1888-1958)
Lehnerer opens his work by discussing in detail the architect’s perspective on rules for architectural and urban
design. He acknowledges candidly that designers often view rules as constraints that limit their artistic creativity.
Drawing on the insightful ideas of political economist Friedrich Von Hayek, Lehnerer highlights the tremendous
significance of rules in managing both the physical and social complexities of a city. He argues persuasively that
while rules cannot be entirely abstracted from their political and cultural contexts, they can still serve as valuable
tools to guide the work of urban planners and municipal administrators. Lehnerer categorizes rules methodically
into helpful types, including those related to physical form, design processes, legal minimum standards, and
architectural design guidelines.
The author asserts convincingly that the inevitable tensions between private and public interests inevitably lead
communities to adopt rules and regulations as a means of mediating between these competing priorities. He
explores extensively how cities have attempted strategically to regulate private property development through
various rules and regulations over time. One prominent example he discusses in depth is the City of Chicago’s
pioneering zoning code, which dictates logically the types of buildings that can be constructed lawfully in different
designated areas of the city. Lehnerer notes insightfully that this influential code, introduced in the early 20th
century, has been continuously updated judiciously to successfully regulate private property development and
ensure well-planned, organized, and livable urban environments.
Fig.4. Chicago Bird-eye view, 1940s
Lehnerer also addresses thoughtfully the crucial role of building codes in governing private property construction
and renovation projects, emphasizing their importance carefully in guaranteeing reasonable minimum standards
for safety, health, and habitability within buildings. Although building codes are sometimes criticized as infringing
on property rights, Lehnerer argues persuasively that they are nevertheless necessary to protect public welfare.
He recognizes openly that the relationship between power and control in urban spaces is complex with many
nuances, and discusses how this relationship influences significantly the formulation and implementation of rules
over time. The author examines in depth the inherent difficulties in setting reasonable yet flexible limitations
when implementing urban planning rules, using the example of Chicago’s historical changes to building height
regulations. He explores thoughtfully the many factors that can and should influence the establishment of sensible
thresholds in city planning rules and policies.
10 MSA MA + AU
11

Another aspect Lehnerer delves into in his analysis is the
inherent tensions between the exercise of power and
the imposition of control in urban spaces. He highlights
how powerful individuals, communities, or interest groups
may seek strategically to exert influence and control over
these spaces sometimes for their own narrow benefit,
often at the perceived expense of marginalized groups.
Conversely, control measures implemented top-down by
governments and institutions to regulate development
may also be criticized or resisted by some as oppressive
or overly restrictive.
Lehnerer also delves into the historical codification and
incorporation of aesthetic principles, guidelines, and review
processes into the public design of urban spaces. He traces
the evolution of these aesthetic codes in urban design,
from the classical architectural principles of Vitruvius to
the Beaux-Arts movement of the late 19th and early 20th
centuries. The author critically examines the potential
biases, power structures, and inherent subjectivities that
may be embedded subtly in such aesthetic codes and
reviews. He also considers carefully how these codes
have sometimes perpetuated inequality and exclusion,
both intentionally and unintentionally, in urban design
and development decisions over time. Lehnerer suggests
wisely that designers should be cognizant of the cultural,
historical, political, and socioeconomic context in which
aesthetic codes are developed and applied. He argues
they should assess such codes critically to ensure they do
not restrict creative expression or disadvantage certain
groups.
Fig.5. The hedge and its four ideal heights (source - Grand Urban Rules, 2009)
The author also explores in nuanced detail the complex relationship between neighborhoods and the larger
urban fabric of the city. He discusses thoughtfully both the direct and indirect proximity between neighbors within
neighborhoods as well as the many physical and social elements such as hedge height, light, shadow, traffic, and
more that can potentially serve as dividing factors affecting neighborhood cohesion and livability. Lehnerer delves
insightfully into the importance of these often overlooked factors and their significant impacts on neighborhoods
and sense of community over time.
He also examines carefully the challenges that can arise when neighborhoods become too disconnected either
physically or socially from the economic and cultural amenities of the larger city, including issues of isolation,
limited access to resources, disinvestment, and social inequities. To address these challenges proactively, he
suggests urban designers, planners, and policymakers should focus strategically on creating physically and socially
well-connected neighborhoods that preserve their unique character and identity while also fostering a sense of
inclusion within the whole city.
Fig.6. The 1916 order: codification results in form, produces form. (source- Lehnerer, A. (2009) Grand urban rules)
Fig.-7. The 1961 order: form results in codification, produces form. (source- Lehnerer, a. (2009) Grand urban rules)
12 MSA MA + AU
13

Lehnerer examines in his book the intricate web of complex and often competing rules and regulations, both
formal and informal, that have governed New York City’s dynamic and ever-evolving urban spaces, with a specific
focus on the transformative period of the 1960s. This period of “urban renewal” witnessed significant changes
to the city’s physical landscape and socioeconomic patterns. Lehnerer explores in depth both the official topdown
rules and regulations established through legislation, such as landmark zoning laws and building codes, as
well as the important grassroots informal “rules” that emerged organically from vibrant community activism and
citizens’ groups advocating for equitable development and preservation of neighborhoods. Lehnerer emphasizes
clearly the critical importance of understanding carefully the interplay between these formal and informal “rules”
in actually shaping outcomes and the lived experiences within the urban environment over time. He argues
persuasively that urban designers, planners, and policymakers should strive judiciously for an optimal balance
between top-down regulations and bottom-up community initiatives and engagement to help ensure a more
inclusive, diverse, equitable and responsive city for all.
Lehnerer provides a thoughtful examination of balancing diversity and uniformity in urban design. As the
Mulholland Scenic Parkway example illustrates, carefully considering the natural landscape context is key. The
plan sought to preserve the area’s unique topographic character through rules addressing building color, style,
and visibility from roads. Rather than a one-size-fits-all mandate, this nuanced approach allowed design variation
while maintaining consistency with the natural surroundings.
Lehnerer traces how urban design has evolved from the rigid uniformity of ancient city grids. Early standardized
layouts provided order but lacked flexibility. In contrast, modern designs incorporate more organic diversity and
individuality. Lehnerer suggests designers can achieve a balanced blend of consistency and difference through
modular design or cultural/artistic expression. Modular elements like repeating architectural features provide
visual cohesion across varied structures. Incorporating diverse cultural traditions likewise fosters individuality
within an overall coherent framework. Both approaches satisfy the human need for familiarity amid novelty.
Fig.8. Mulholland Scenic Parkway Plan, Los Angeles (source- Lehnerer, A. (2009) Grand urban rules)
Fig.9. Mulholland Scenic Parkway, Guidelines (source- Lehnerer, A. (2009) Grand urban rules)
14 MSA MA + AU
15

In the initial phase, the Unwin divides a hypothetical 4-hectare building lot according to existing guidelines
and laws, which promote efficient row development. The result is 340 houses arranged in 20 rows, oriented
towards the street, with additional mandatory access routes via a back road. In the second variation,
clusters of 2, 4, or 6 houses with front and back yards are positioned within a public perimeter. These
clusters are separated by additional access points and supplemented by publicly accessible spaces such
as play areas and tennis courts. In total, this second variation accommodates 152 houses.
At first glance, the first variation, with its more intensive use and effective utilization of surface area, appears
to be the more economical option. Unwin further explains that the impact of variables can be understood
as follows: “Where the land is comparatively expensive and the cost of road construction is relatively low,
overcrowding provides a greater advantage in terms of price per lot compared to situations where land is
relatively inexpensive and road construction is costly.”
Fig.10. Raymond Unwin juxtaposes “two systems of
development” of the same area. (source- Lehnerer, A.
(2009) Grand urban rules)
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lehnerer emphasizes strongly the need for urban design and planning approaches, policies, and
processes to take a comprehensive and holistic view that considers the city as a complex system with many
interrelated social, economic, political, historical and physical dimensions. He advocates effectively for the
meaningful integration of various important disciplines beyond just architecture alone, including urban planning,
sociology, economics, history, and environmental science. Lehnerer also encourages designers, developers, and
policymakers to actively engage authentically with diverse community stakeholders and residents to help ensure
rules and regulations established are practical, flexible to changing needs over time, and truly reflective of how
people experience and wish to shape their own neighborhoods and city.
Overall, “Grand Urban Rules” is a thoughtful, insightful, and still highly relevant exploration of the important role
formal and informal rules have played, and continue to play, in shaping the built form, governance structures
and lived experiences within our cities. Lehnerer’s nuanced analysis of the intricate political, social, cultural and
historical dimensions of “rules” provides an invaluable framework and reference for better understanding the
complex interdependencies and tradeoffs within urban design, planning, and policymaking. His emphasis on
the need for inclusive, participatory and adaptive processes in both rule-making and implementation resonates
strongly with contemporary debates around creating more equitable, sustainable and resilient cities for all.
This landmark book remains a valuable resource for architects, planners, policymakers, researchers and others
interested in understanding both the intended and unintended consequences of “rules” at the intersection of
power, politics and urban space over time.,
Lehnerer draws on Raymond Unwin’s innovative early 20th century
methodology of working with design variants. By juxtaposing options, Unwin
could determine the most cost-effective layouts while still cultivating visual
interest. This data-driven process balanced efficiency concerns with aesthetic
and social priorities. Lehnerer advocates a similarly systematic, yet flexible,
approach to variation in contemporary urban planning. Just as no two
natural landscapes are identical, standardized designs fail to accommodate
shifting human needs over time. By thoughtfully incorporating diversity
within consistency parameters, cities can cultivate engaging, resilient urban
environments. The lessons of history and pioneers like Unwin continue
informing innovative solutions to evolving challenges.
16 MSA MA + AU
17

2. Understanding Urban Neighbourhoods: Insights from Alex Lehnerer and Jane Jacobs
Urban design aims to improve the quality of life and
work for people of diverse backgrounds in cities. The
sociological aspect of cities must be considered in urban
development as the end-users are the people of the
city. Throughout history, Urban designers like Ebenezer
Howard, Robert Moses and Jane Jacobs had various
approaches to improve the infrastructure, social harmony,
services, transportation, and overall functioning of cities
and some have succeeded while others have failed. We
have now evolved to a stage where cities in many parts
of the world have a well-working set of rules to shape the
city, while others struggle due to political power and the
selfish motives of influential people. The failure of one
part of the city affects the entire community as a whole.
Alex Lehnerer’s approach advocates for using rules as
tools to create successful urban environments, adjusting
them to changing scenarios and issues of the city. The
humanistic and socially responsible approach of Jane
Jacobs can be merged with this approach to understand
and set criteria for the bottom-up development of
cities. Jacobs emphasised the importance of community
involvement in the planning process, working closely
with local residents to understand their needs and
preferences and ensure development is responsive to
the community’s needs.
Jane Jacobs, a prominent urban activist, fought against
large-scale urban development projects and advocated
for community-based planning and preservation of
historic neighbourhoods. She celebrated the diversity
and vibrancy of cities and argued that neighbourhoods
were the key to their success. She was critical of urban
Fig.11. Artwork- Jane Jacobs (source- bloomberg.com)
renewal policies that destroyed the social fabric of
communities by displacing residents and destroying
local businesses. She believed that cities should
prioritise the needs of people, and be diverse,
walkable, and mixed-use with a mix of residential and
commercial buildings, parks, and public spaces.
2.1 Exploring Chawl Neighborhoods in
Mumbai through the Perspective of Jane
Jacobs
Mumbai, a bustling city on the west coast of India, is
home to a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with
its own unique characteristics and dynamics. Among
these neighborhoods, Chawls, a distinctive form of
housing, provide an intriguing subject for examination
when considered through the lens of renowned
urbanist and author, Jane Jacobs. Jane Jacobs’
principles of urban planning and understanding
neighborhood dynamics offer valuable insights into
the vibrancy, challenges, and potential improvements
of Chawl neighborhoods.
The Chawl neighbourhood of Mumbai is a unique
urban environment characterised by its dense and
diverse population, as well as its strong sense of
community. Chawls are multi-story tenements or
housing structures found in many parts of Mumbai.
They are characterized by narrow corridors, shared
amenities, and a sense of close-knit community living.
Despite the fact that chawls are densely populated
and lack many of the amenities that are commonly
associated with modern urban living, residents feel a
strong sense of connection to their neighbours and to
the community as a whole. This sense of community
is fostered by a variety of factors, including the close
proximity of neighbours, the shared use of common
spaces such as courtyards and stairwells, and the
common experiences and challenges that residents
face as members of a marginalised urban community.
Fig.12. Cross-section chawl, Parel, Mumbai- Artwork by Jimmi Devasia (source-behance)
Another important factor in the development of a
sense of community in the Chawl neighbourhood is the
presence of a variety of social and cultural institutions
that serve as gathering places for residents. These
institutions include community centres, religious
institutions, and other social clubs and organisations that
provide opportunities for residents to connect with one
another and participate in community life.
18 MSA MA + AU
19

Despite the many challenges that residents of the Chawl
neighbourhood face, including poverty, lack of access
to basic services, and a lack of political representation,
the strong sense of community that exists within this
neighbourhood is a testament to the resilience and
resourcefulness of its residents. Through their collective
efforts, chawl residents have been able to create a
vibrant and dynamic urban community that stands as a
testament to the power of human connection and the
importance of community in the urban context.
Mixed-Use and Diversity
One of Jane Jacobs’ central principles was the
importance of mixed-use neighborhoods, where various
activities and functions coexist, fostering economic and
social interactions. Chawl neighborhoods in Mumbai
inherently embody this principle, often featuring a mix
of residential and commercial spaces in close proximity.
This diversity encourages a dynamic environment
where people live, work, and socialize within the same
community, contributing to a sense of vibrancy and
community cohesion.
Walkability
Jacobs emphasized the significance of walkable
neighborhoods, where residents can easily navigate the
streets on foot. Chawl neighborhoods in Mumbai naturally
promote this concept due to their high population
density. Narrow streets and interconnected alleyways
make walking the primary mode of transportation.
This pedestrian-friendly environment not only reduces
reliance on cars but also enhances safety and social
interaction among residents.
Fig.13. Mumbai Chawl, Photographs Collection by Basia Asztabska (source-behance)
Short Blocks and Frequent Streets
Another key principle advocated by Jane Jacobs is
the importance of short blocks and frequent streets
to create an environment that feels enclosed and
promotes a sense of security. Chawl neighborhoods
in Mumbai typically feature narrow streets and
interconnected pathways, reinforcing these
characteristics. This design encourages residents to
engage with their surroundings, fostering a safer and
more interactive community.
Surveillance and Safety
Jane Jacobs famously introduced the concept of
“eyes on the street” to underscore the importance
of community members actively observing public
spaces, contributing to safety and security. In Chawl
neighborhoods, this concept is manifested as
residents often keep a watchful eye on public areas
from their balconies. This self-policing environment
adds an additional layer of safety and security to
these communities.
Organic Growth and Adaptation
Jane Jacobs celebrated the organic development
of neighborhoods over time. Chawl neighborhoods
in Mumbai have evolved organically, adapting to the
changing needs of the community. This capacity for
change and growth makes Chawls resilient in the face
of urban transformation, enabling them to endure and
adapt to the ever-evolving urban landscape.
Community Engagement
Active community engagement and participation are
crucial for the vitality of neighborhoods, according
to Jacobs. Chawl neighborhoods in Mumbai often
have close-knit communities where residents are
actively involved in local governance and community
activities. This sense of ownership and participation
plays a pivotal role in the social fabric of Chawl
neighborhoods.
Fig.14. Mumbai Chawl, Photographs Collection by Basia Asztabska (source-behance)
Preserving Historical Identity
Jacobs advocated for preserving historic and culturally
significant elements within neighborhoods. Chawls in
Mumbai hold deep historical significance, and their
preservation can help maintain a connection to the
past, preserving the identity and cultural heritage of the
neighborhood.
Diverse Population
Jane Jacobs celebrated the diversity of urban
neighborhoods and their ability to bring together people
from different backgrounds. Chawl neighborhoods in
Mumbai are known for their diverse populations, and
this diversity contributes to cultural enrichment and
social exchange, making these communities vibrant and
inclusive.
20 MSA MA + AU
21

2.2. Creating a Framework for Urban Rules
Chawl neighborhoods in Mumbai provide an intriguing case study when viewed through the urbanist perspective
of Jane Jacobs. Their alignment with her principles highlights their unique urban character. Jacobs’ ideologies
can be compared to the Chawl neighbourhood of Mumbai City. In a blog post “Abhyudaya Nagar: A hub of Social
spaces” by Atul P, he explores how Jane Jacobs’ principles have been reflected in the design and function of
chawl neighbourhoods in Mumbai. Atul notes that many chawls feature ground-floor shops and other commercial
activities, which create a lively street scene and provide opportunities for residents to start their own businesses
and earn a living. This reflects Jacobs’ principle of the importance of mixed-use neighbourhoods, which create a
sense of activity and vibrancy throughout the day.
The article by Atul discusses how chawl communities in Mumbai reflect Jane Jacobs’ principles of urban design.
Jacobs’ principles emphasize the importance of short blocks and small streets, mixed-income neighbourhoods,
and community participation in urban planning. Atul notes that chawls feature narrow alleys and small lanes
that encourage safe and accessible pedestrian movement. Mixed-income neighbourhoods in chawl communities
foster diversity and social cohesion. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of community participation in the
planning process, reflecting Jacobs’ principle of local knowledge and community input.
Creating a comprehensive framework for urban
design rules and policies that integrates Lehnerer’s
approach to setting urban rules with Jane Jacobs’
principles for nurturing a sense of community is
a complex endeavor. It necessitates a delicate
equilibrium between regulatory guidance and the
organic development of urban spaces, with a focus
on fostering vibrant and livable communities. This
proposed framework seeks to harmonize these two
approaches, providing a structured foundation while
accommodating the adaptability and dynamism vital
for community well-being.
__To initiate this framework, the first step is to
establish clear and well-defined urban design
guidelines. These guidelines set the basic structure
for urban development while allowing flexibility for
organic growth and community-driven adaptations.
This balance is crucial to create spaces that are
both planned and responsive to evolving community
needs.
__Mixed-use zoning is a critical element in the
framework. It entails designating areas where
residential, commercial, and recreational activities
can coexist. While Lehnerer’s approach sets the
stage for mixed-use zoning, Jane Jacobs’ perspective
emphasizes the importance of diverse economic
activities as a means of fostering community
interactions and economic vibrancy.
Fig.16. Mumbai Chawl, Photographs Collection by Basia Asztabska (source-behance)
Fig.15. Mumbai Chawl, Artwork (source-behance)
__The promotion of walkability is another key principle.
This involves designing streets and pathways that
prioritize pedestrian accessibility, ensuring safety
22 MSA MA + AU
23

and convenience. In line with Jane Jacobs’ perspective,
the focus is on creating human-scaled streets with
short blocks, frequent intersections, and sidewalk-level
activities to encourage social interactions.
__Density regulations play a role in balancing growth.
These regulations set maximum and minimum density
limits, ensuring a harmonious balance between open
space and built-up areas while allowing variations in
building heights to align with the existing neighborhood’s
scale, as per Jane Jacobs’ principles.
__Local ownership and community engagement are
encouraged within the framework. The aim is to instill
a strong sense of community by involving residents and
businesses in decision-making processes and promoting
ownership among stakeholders.
__The preservation of historic and cultural elements is a
significant component. Heritage preservation regulations
are designed to safeguard historically and culturally
significant areas, but with a twist: these regulations
should consider the ongoing use and adaptation of
heritage buildings to maintain their relevance within the
community.
__Mixed-income housing is another vital aspect. The
framework encourages the integration of mixed-income
housing within neighborhoods, following Lehnerer’s
approach. This aligns with Jane Jacobs’ perspective by
promoting housing diversity, ensuring communities are
inclusive and maintain socio-economic vibrancy.
Fig.17. Mumbai Chawl, Photographs Collection by Basia Asztabska (source-behance)
__Gradual change is emphasized to minimize disruption
and provide opportunities for the community to adapt
incrementally. This approach enables urban areas to
evolve while preserving their unique character.
__Fostering a sense of ownership among residents
and businesses is essential. The framework promotes
property rights and encourages a culture of taking
responsibility for public spaces, ensuring they remain
clean, safe, and well-maintained.
__The provision of public spaces and gathering spots
is crucial in promoting community interactions.
Designating and maintaining public spaces and
creating gathering spots, parks, and plazas are
essential elements within the framework to encourage
social engagement and community activities.
__Finally, ongoing assessment is a cornerstone.
Regularly evaluating the effectiveness of urban rules
and policies and involving the community in this
assessment process is fundamental for addressing
evolving needs and concerns as urban areas continue
to grow and change.
In summary, this framework strives to strike a
harmonious balance between Lehnerer’s structured
urban rules and Jane Jacobs’ principles for creating
a vibrant sense of community. It aims to build
organized urban environments that remain adaptable,
responsive, and conducive to the formation of strong
community bonds and identities among residents.
By applying these principles within urban planning
and development processes, communities can be
designed and managed in a way that fosters a sense of
community, promotes social interactions, and enhances
the quality of life for residents, aligning with Jane Jacobs’
perspective. The principles outlined in the framework
strongly resonate with the realities of Mumbai’s Chawl
neighbourhoods, offering valuable insights into creating
healthy communities and informing the criteria for
their development. Despite existing challenges such as
poverty, limited access to basic services, and inadequate
public infrastructure like toilets, these neighbourhoods
exhibit a remarkable sense of community. This serves as
a motivation to restructure the urban rules framework,
with a certain degree of freedom taking into account
the need to address these issues while fostering a
strong community bond and enhancing the overall
neighbourhood fabric.
24 MSA MA + AU
25

2.3. Conclusion
Establishing guidelines for shaping urban regulations that promote the development of healthy neighborhoods
can be viewed through a combination of Jane Jacobs’ perspective and Lehnerer’s idea of the level of freedom
or constraint within defined areas, using regulations as effective tools for urban planning. Embracing rules that
consciously allow room for freedom necessitates a deliberate lack of strict precision, echoing Lehnerer’s reference
to Friedrich von Hayek’s concept in “Grand Urban Rules ‘’Freedom is the absence of coercion. The justification
for this negative definition is the fact that freedom is essential in order to allow space for the unanticipated and
unpredictable; we desire [freedom] because we have learned to expect from it, opportunities to realise many of
our objectives’’.
The process of establishing regulations and understanding the requirements of urban neighborhoods involves
taking into account various factors and drawing insights from prominent urban thinkers of the past. Nevertheless,
the responsibility of putting these ideas into practice in today’s world falls on contemporary urban designers. To
tackle urban challenges, individuals can draw from historical experiences and integrate the methods of urban
designers with their own creative freedom to craft unique approaches suited to addressing modern urban issues
within specific contexts. When it comes to setting criteria and regulations for complex neighborhoods, which
serve essential needs and address pressing problems, the primary focus should be on prioritizing the residents
and comprehending the social dynamics within the built environment. Ultimately, any problem-solving approach
should be practiced with a strong emphasis on involving the individuals most affected by these issues and being
inclusive in the process of addressing urban challenges.
.
3. Bibliography
Lehnerer, A. (2009) Grand urban rules. Rotterdam: 010 Publishers
Jacobs, J. (1961) Death And Life Of Great American Cities. S.L.: The Bodley Head Ltd.
Gupte, R. (2018) Physical and Social Configurations of the Bombay Chawls. Sahapedia. [Online]https://www.
sahapedia.org/physical-and-social-configurations-of-the-bombay-chawls.
Abhyudaya Nagar: A hub of Social spaces (2018) MonumentzMan. [Online] [Accessed on 11th May 2023] http://
monumentzman.blogspot.com/2018_03_04_archive.html.
Exporting Indian Urbanism | urbz (n.d.) urbz.net. [Online] [Accessed on 11th May 2023] https://urbz.net/articles/
exporting-indian-urbanism.
Jane Jacobs (n.d.) The Center for the Living City. [Online] https://centerforthelivingcity.org/janejacobs#jane-andthe-center.
26 MSA MA + AU
27

2Research
Methodologies and Events
Journey Through Urbanism: Exploring Identities, Spaces, and Perspectives
28 MSA MA + AU
29

1. Background
Belonging from a small town where I’ve spent most years of my life, I experienced a simple life in a closely-knit
community. The hometown had a population of only a few thousand people. I would see familiar faces on the
streets and common places like the local grocery store, park, and town square on a daily basis. Growing up, I
formed strong connections with my neighbours and other families in the community. The importance of family and
the people around me had a significant impact on shaping who I am as a person. The town felt like a comfortable
corner of the world that I knew well and could always count on for support.
When I began studying Architecture at university, I realized how physical spaces affect and influence people
and their behaviour in using space on both small and large scales. In my classes, I learned how the tangible, built
environment is inter-dependent with the intangible human experience of any given space. People attach memories,
meanings and identities to places based on how they interact with and perceive the built forms around them. To
study MA Architecture and Urbanism and understand this relationship between people and their environments,
I came to Manchester, UK. I delve deeper into understanding society’s needs through the physical built space of
a city and what influences individuals’ usage of public and private spaces. I was also interested in understanding
the complex debates around social structure in an urban setting, and how culture and economy influence a city’s
growth over long periods of time.
I have always been keenly interested in theories and reasoning behind how societies function and change. A major
question I sought to understand was what really drives people to coexist in harmony within a community, whether
large or small. When I began studying critical urban theories and getting involved in discussions on related topics
with professors and classmates, I realized how different layers of society like economics, politics, culture and
physical planning are all interconnected. I learned that everything we experience and perceive around us on daily,
weekly and lifetime scales is connected, and that all these factors are intertwined, whether on a minute scale
like personal interactions or major scales like city-wide developments. Understanding these relationships and
connections between people and their environments has been a driving motivation for my studies in architecture
and urbanism.
Fig.18. Wilson Hill, Dharampur, India (Hometown) (source- Instagram)
30 MSA MA + AU
31

2. Understanding Individual and Spatial Identity through experiences
Coming to Manchester, a city with a diverse population
of people from all corners of the world, exposed me
to a truly global environment. Within Manchester, I
encountered individuals from varied backgrounds
including different cultures, countries, speaking dozens
of different languages and with different life experiences
and histories. I met and befriended people studying at my
university from places like China, India, various middleeast
and African nations. Getting to know them, I realized
how one’s individual identity is formed through their
unique memories, personal experiences, cultural and
family influences, history, beliefs and values developed
within their own society over their lifetime. As sociologist
Maurice Halbwachs(1950) stated, “Individual memory, far
from being a mere depositary, is a product of society, in
the sense that it is shaped by and in turn shapes social
frameworks.” This implies that our understanding of
ourselves and sense of belonging is influenced by the
shared memories and narratives of the communities we
are part of.
When trying to understand the role of people within
the built environments they inhabit in their daily lives,
and the role built environments play in shaping people’s
experiences, we realize that an individual’s identity
is part of a larger collective identity of the community
and city they live in. The collective identity in turn
helps define the overall identity of a city and its unique
character compared to other places. Exploring the
idea of community harmony through architecture and
urban design, and the factors reflecting the identity of a
community or physical space was fascinating to me. As
humans, we co-exist with physical factors like buildings,
public spaces and infrastructure to imbue spaces with
cultural meaning beyond mere functional programs.
Intangible aspects like shared culture, history, art,
festivals and stories all reflect the holistic identity of
a space through both tangible and intangible means.
My investigations into the tangible and intangible
components of spaces allowed me to delve deeper
into these concepts during my studies in Manchester.
Exploring places with strong histories embodied in
cultural heritage sites provided meaningful insights.
I observed how spaces take on identities over long
periods of time through the diverse ways they are
used and adapted by successive generations, showing
continuity as well as change. The quality of a space’s
existence relies on the dynamic interplay between
its tangible, physical attributes and the intangible
associations accumulated over time.
This is similar to how humans have a dual nature,
with both a physical body and non-physical elements
like personality, memories and spirit. The ways we
perceive and ascribe meaning to spaces is why they
hold cultural and personal significance in terms of
developing identities. And vice versa, the ways we
define our own existence relies on experiencing
knowledge about our surroundings through
perception and creating memories within the spaces
we occupy in our daily lives and journeys. Even when
remembering people or events, the spatial contexts
remain embedded in our memories and imaginations.
We cannot dream or imagine without picturing things
within some type of spatial context, whether real or
fictional. This relationship between people, memory
and place has always fascinated me.
Fig.19. Oxford Road, Manchester (source- Instagram)
32 MSA MA + AU
33

3. Exploring narratives of the cities in UK
Fig.20. Canterbury City Centre (source- Author) Fig.21. Westgate Gardens, Canterbury (source- Author) Fig.22. Statue ofEmperor Constantine, York (source- Author) Fig.23. York Minister, York (source- Author)
During my experience visiting historic towns and cities of the United Kingdom, I discovered how the past is
deeply connected to urban areas, preserving stories of history and collective memory over long periods of time.
I realised the importance of balancing tangible architectural heritage with intangible cultural aspects in order to
maintain a strong, unique urban identity. Canterbury with its iconic Cathedral towering over the medieval streets,
exemplifies a city where tangible religious architecture seamlessly blends with intangible narratives of religious
significance, pilgrimage and scholarship over the centuries. The cobbled streets and historic structures still echo
with the stories of pilgrims and scholars who have left their mark on the city.
Similarly, during my visit to York, the imposing city walls and the majestic York Minster form a dramatic architectural
backdrop to a living history lesson encompassing the tangible and intangible. The Shambles, a narrow medieval
street, preserves the tangible architecture and urban fabric of centuries gone by, while the intangible stories of
Viking invasions and medieval life continue to breathe life and local character into the city. As I navigated the
labyrinthine alleys, I sensed a deep connection not only with the physical surroundings but also with the collective
memories embedded over the decades and centuries.
Manchester, where I spent the most extensive time studying, exploring and observing, told a story of adaptation
and transformation shaped significantly by the Industrial Revolution. The red-brick mills and factories, now often
repurposed into cultural spaces, are a tangible reminder of the city’s resilience and ability to embrace change
while still honoring historical roots. The intangible spirit of innovation, progress and perseverance is palpable,
showing how an urban landscape can seamlessly blend old and new.
London, as a vast metropolis, showcases the harmonious coexistence of history with contemporary developments.
From the ancient Tower of London to the ultra-modern Shard skyscraper, the city’s diverse and ever-evolving
skyline tells a compelling tale of continuity and adaptation. The multicultural neighborhoods, each with its own
distinct intangible character, reflect the dynamic interplay of tangible diversity and intangible cultural influences
that defines London’s unique and global identity. Here, personal identity is shaped not only by individual history
but also by the dynamic interplay of cultures, memories and narratives over the decades.
34 MSA MA + AU
35

4. Reflection to roots 5. Conclusion
Reflecting on these experiences across the UK, I couldn’t help but draw parallels with the old city areas of
Pune, India, particularly the historic Peth regions. These areas have great potential for preserving urban identity
through sensitive and thoughtful integration of tangible heritage like ancient temples and traditional buildings
with complementary intangible stories of cultural richness accumulated over centuries. Pune’s Peths have all the
necessary ingredients for a vibrant urban identity, similar to the cities I explored in the UK, if properly nurtured
and developed.
Drawing from my learnings in the UK cities, my studio work aimed to integrate tangible and intangible elements
while respecting the historical context. The goal was to create urban spaces that encourage community
engagement and where people can see themselves reflected not only in the physical structures but also in the
shared narratives that define the essence of a place. And my dissertation further delved into understanding the
urban character of Pune by analyzing the interplay between its Tangible and Intangible elements which showcase
its unique identity. I also explored the influence of globalisation on the urban character of Pune in the modern era.
The learnings demonstrated the potential of urban design to preserve and celebrate the rich history, collective
memory, and individual identity in diverse cultural contexts.
These learnings about identity and its importance in defining what gives meaning to places motivated me to
further question how we define a place’s character. Understanding the significance of character and its role in
shaping society has helped me recognize the importance of sensitivity in design and taking a critical approach to
problem solving. A place’s character is defined by the dynamic ways people co-exist within its spaces and interact
with all aspects of their built and natural environments over long periods of time. Realizing the significance of
intangible factors like shared memories, culture and narratives has helped me develop a perspective on designing
spaces with people and communities in mind, by considering the holistic character of a place which shapes
collective identity on neighbourhood and citywide scales.
Moving forward, I aim to further explore concepts of placemaking, urban conservation and regeneration through
a lens of integrating tangible and intangible dimensions. In my professional career, I hope to play a role in
initiatives that nurture a sense of belonging for diverse communities. Sensitively designed projects can help
maintain continuity with the past while also accommodating contemporary needs and future visions. With growing
urbanization and global influences, it is important for cities to retain unique characters that distinguish them and
allow residents to feel rooted.
As architects and urban designers, we must thoughtfully consider how to balance preserving heritage with
adapting to changes, and avoid approaches that homogenize places. Public engagement and collaborative efforts
and also key to determine what intangible aspects are most essential to protect or strengthen when renewing
urban fabrics over time. The lessons from my travels in the UK, combined with reflections on hometown contexts,
have reinforced the value of inclusive place-based approaches. Understanding the intertwined tangible and
intangible dimensions forming a locality’s distinct spirit and memories will continue guiding me to make meaningful
contributions to city building and community life.
Fig.24. Shaniwar Wada, Pune, Maharashtra. (source- Mistay.in)
36 MSA MA + AU
37

6. Bibliography
Halbwachs, M. (1950). “Collective Memory”
https://philosophynow.org/issues/64/Identity_and_Freedom_in_Being_and_Nothingness
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/social-sciences/collective-memory
https://www.britannica.com/place/York-England
Greater Manchester Spatial Framework - Greater Manchester Combined Authority
https://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/our-story/
https://localhistories.org/a-history-of-canterbury/
History of London - The evolution of UK’s capital city (londoncitybreak.com)
38 MSA MA + AU

ar.sagar.nikam@gmail.com