STANDARDS FOR URBAN DESIGN

PRINCIPLES OF URBAN DESIGN

FACULTY OF ARCHITECTURE
Planning of towns is essential for quality development in the cities. The primary
concern of urban planning is public welfare which includes considerations of
efficiency, sanitation, protection and use of the environment.

In this report we look into Edinburgh’s special character with its unique central area
and quality suburbs and villages. A city well planned with the perfect combination
of landscape, history and buildings.
The old town is characterized by fishbone street pattern with narrow closes wynds
and courts and by a regular grid of streets, squares and crescents along with formal
gardens and a series of neoclassic buildings. Stone and slate were the predominant
building materials used.
The scenic beauty of Edinburgh is well appreciated due to its spectacular
topography demonstrating both its urban grain and a dramatic township together
The Edinburgh standards on urban design principles are set out in a hierarchy which
are as follows:
 City wide dimension
 Local Area dimension
 Site/Street dimension
 Public Realm dimension
City wide dimension

New and significant proposals must be taken into consideration during the citywide
expansion. It must be ensured that these proposals protect and enhance the image
of the city and not cause a drastic change
New developments must integrate with wider surroundings and be in harmony
with the average height of the buildings.
Development should respect the urban topopgraphy. Low rise buildings adjacent
to higher neighbour must have excellent roofscapes.
City edges and settings can be improved through new development and further
provides integration and scenic continuity from urban to rural areas.
Enhancement of gateways and arterial routes for the betterment of the image of
the city. Maximize open spaces and green corridor and minimizing loss of public
access to recreation and biodiversity spots.

Local Area Dimension

Incorporation of lively and attractive spaces within the city premises adds to a safe
and sustainable environment for the communities. The former can be achieved by
integrating with public transport, priority to pedestrian and cycle movement.
The implementation of the new proposals, should not alter the distinctive identity
of the town which includes the spatial structure, townscape and landscape
features. Developing clear and coherent layouts for spatial structure for a diverse
and vital surroundings.

Street and Site Dimension

Reinforce the key elements to ensure adaptation with the surroundings by taking
into consideration the local proportions and plot sizes and use of local materials.
New developments must add to the connectivity of the city and improve the local
street structure as well.
Value open spaces by integrating more site landscape and natural features and
ensure that public spaces involve activity.
Accommodation of parking spaces without causing an obstacle to vehicular
movement, this can be catered in three ways: either inside the boundary of the
development or outside usually on street or underground. Ensure close proximity
to important destinations as well.

Public Realm

Equal importance must be given to public spaces like the buildings in the same
region. There should be a balance between the vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Providing separate pedestrian routes for ease of movement, safety and comfort.
Buildings should give positive definition and enclose to the shape and function of
public spaces and well defined enclosures and strong building lines to address the
public spaces. Simple street and footway designs, placement of street furniture and
garbage disposals to help create and define the neighbourhood.