An urbanism based on observation. Prospective methodologies based on the idea of city-street at three Andalusian cities (Cordoba, Malaga and Granada)

Abstract

Cities in southern Spain have a huge challenge when it comes to organizing their territories. The intensification of relationships, sensibilities and varying levels of governance, in the context of very difficult and uncertain socioeconomic circumstances adds to the diversity of various forms and times regarding contemporary urban space. In this context, there is a need for a paradigm shift in traditional urbanism that allows for methodological renovation regarding both criteria for intervention and a rewnewed relation with society. Along these lines, this article presents the results of research on the city street, a specific study of three Andalusian cities. The city street is defined as a complex urban element pertaining to each city, through which the urban ensemble is perceived. Through forward-looking analysis and cartographic examples that display a wide-ranging variety of city-streets, the methodologies presented call for a more descriptive and critical urbanism that will enhance the consciousness of urban territories.