From Pixels to Policy: Decoding urban morphology and policy influences

Hogeun Park, Thomas Esch, Daniela Palacios Lopez, Nancy Lozano Gracia, Olivia D'aoust

Urban planning effectiveness has traditionally been assessed using metrics such as population density, land use mix, and transportation efficiency. However, these measures often fail to capture the full complexity of urban form and its impact on sustainability, livability, and economic vitality. This paper proposes a novel approach to evaluating urban planning effectiveness by measuring the vertical height of cities. Drawing upon principles of urban morphology, spatial analysis, and building typology, we develop a framework for quantifying vertical urban density and assessing its implications for urban development. Through case studies and comparative analyses, we illustrate how vertical height can offer valuable insights into the effectiveness of urban planning strategies. Furthermore, we emphasize the pivotal role of planning policy in shaping urban morphology both vertically and horizontally. Our findings underscore the importance of integrating vertical dimensionality into planning evaluations to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of urban form and its dynamics.

Event: World Bank Land Conference 2024 - Washington

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Document type:From Pixels to Policy: Decoding urban morphology and policy influences (623 kB - pdf)