Morpho: a methodology for assessing urban form

Abstract

A methodology is proposed for assessing the physical form of urban areas. Termed morpho, it deals with fundamental elements of urban form: streets, plots and buildings. It includes seven assessment criteria: one for each of the elements individually; one for each relation between pairs of elements; and finally, one linking form and function. The application of this methodology provides a quantitative assessment of the ‘morphological basis’ of an urban area, identifying its strengths and weaknesses. It is argued that morpho can make an important contribution to urban research and practice.

Topics & Concepts