Critical Mass X Urban Engine

“CRITICAL MASS x URBAN ENGINE” alludes to the threshold of population density and urban diversity required for a progressive ‘urbanity’ to be achieved.

This studio will develop an “Urban Engine” incorporating elements of the public realm, fine grain and a diverse range of urban typologies driven by a critical mass of density.

The block to the west of Melbourne Central will serve as a template for this experiment. Its relative under development and its translation of the city grid will provide a contextual sub text to the brief.

The site will be split into segments each of which will be allocated to teams of two or three students.

The programme will incorporate ideas set in the future which will anticipate the increasing impact of the digital age incorporating a range of commercial, recreational and residential typologies.