Introduction to Space Syntax as an Evidence-based Design tool

Course Description

Evidence-based design is an approach that involves using research and data to inform design decisions. It is a process of collecting and analyzing data to gain insights into user behavior, preferences, and needs, and using that information to guide design decisions. The goal of evidence-based design is to create designs that are effective, efficient, and user-friendly. Examples of evidence that can be used in evidence-based design include user feedback, analytics data, and user research.

Keywords: Evidence-base planning practices, spatial analysis, integration, space syntax, place syntax, GIS, accessibility, connectivity

Key points of the course:

• Theoretical framework and space syntax terms
• Introduction to Space Syntax toolkit and what it measures
• Results: spatial analysis of urban systems using SSx Toolkit in QGIS
• Types of analysis
• Interpreting the results of the spatial analysis: Understand the impact of spatial layouts on various aspects; Testing scenarios; Correlations between spatial values and other forms of data 

Learning outcomes: 

• Preparing space syntax maps for analysis.
• Running space syntax analysis in QGIS.
• Visualising the results of the analysis
• Running catchment analysis in QGIS.
• Using the SSL toolkit in QGIS

Who is this course for: This 90 minutes course is suitable for: a) Students with an interest in EBDP (PhD Candidates, researchers etc.) b) Professionals and experts such as urban planners who participate in the design process of city’s public spaces, public buildings, etc.

Specific Requirements if any, No GIS expertise is needed, but any basic knowledge of using the Place Syntax Toolkit (PST) will be useful Software Installation: QGIS, PST and SST plugins.

Information about the course instructors and partners involved:

The mini-course is led by the Society and Urban Form (SURF) Research Lab from UCY is a transdisciplinary scientific endeavor focusing on describing and interpreting how the built environment impacts society and on translating evidence from the analysis of urban environments for application in design practice and policy. The mission of the lab is to support the development, design and planning of cities which enable and foster social progress, sustainable practices and healthy habitats by fostering research capacity and excellence in urban design, planning and governance towards understanding and addressing urban challenges, as well as valuing and exploiting opportunities afforded by cities and urban communities.

Instructors’ Names: Mariam Shulqamy, Rafaela Christodoulou, Frixos Petrou, Nadia Charalambous
Instructors’ Institution: University of Cyprus (UCY)