| Calgary is oriented along two axes perpendicular to each other. While most of the city is oriented in a north-south direction, the orientation of the Centre City is east-west. This double orientation has a profound effect on the urban pattern of the city as reflected in the Centre City which consists of several separate zones aligned east-west. The goal of this project is to explore the creation of a balance of the two orientations in the west part of Centre City, the West Core. With a vital location, the West Core is generally considered in an east-west orientation in most planning policies. The biggest defect of these policies lies in the north-south linkages being ignored. Consequently, the intent of this project is to explore a different "vertical" way of reinforcing the north-south connection in the West Core.; In order to address the urban problems created by missing north-south pedestrian linkages in the West Core, this MDP explores a comprehensive method for generating a good public realm and improving the quality of the urban environment. This comprehensive method includes historical evolution study, morphological analysis, spatial analysis and demographic analysis. The concept of "episode" is introduced in the process of design intervention. In this project "episode" means the sum of walking experiences for a pedestrian in a certain time span. It is determined by landscape, spatial structure and all urban elements that create the sense of place. Three "episodes" are chosen as design examples to illustrate alternatives that could contribute to the future development of the West Core, and ultimately, towards a more vital downtown.; Key words. Urban Design, Calgary, Downtown, Public Realm, Pedestrian Linkage, Episode, Corridor. |
