City and Transformation

"Continuity and change are the keywords for this minor. The transformation of our built environment is of all ages and is currently an urgent design task."

In this Research Studio "City and Transformation" you will learn to understand and to develop concepts for the transformation of urban areas and public spaces. The basis for these interventions is a historic analysis of the site and knowledge of architectural history. The challenge is to preserve monumental values, existing qualities and the sense of place while giving way for an intervention that allows for a new function and prepares a site for an up-to-date use. Studies of heritage and other subjects form an important framework.

You will immerse yourself in the issue of cultural-historic continuity and urban identity. In this minor the particular focus lies on how we currently handle cultural heritage and necessary urban renewal with reference to changing function requirements. Related to the urban renewal we focus on the use of public areas.

To approach these complex tasks, you will be challenged to familiarise yourself with the specific analytical skills and knowledge of city and architectural development of Dutch cities. In addition, you will delve into analysis methods and various theoretic approaches, as well as in cultural, societal and philosophical aspects. You will have the opportunity to gain knowledge in and to practise with aspects such as historical identity, value assessment and spatial intervention with objects and structures of cultural heritage in a historic environment.

This minor is intended for all students of TU Delft, Erasmus University and University of Leiden. As both students of architecture and other disciplines participate, the analyses will be developed and presented at a conceptual level, for which it is not necessary to have all the knowledge and skills required for a conventional architectural design. We aim to work in trans-disciplinary teams, where all team members can bring in their creativity, visions and ambitions on an equal base. External academic: art history, architectural history, archaeology, landscape architecture, planning. Level: end second year BSc.