Studio S: Social Planning

MUP Studio S: Social Planning

Andrea CookMUP Studio S

The social aspects of urban spaces are often what differentiate good, livable and vibrant cities from those that are not. A ‘right to the city’ underpins a range of philosophical and practical planning approaches to creating built form that enriches social connections in cities and enables people to move around but also to linger, to be and to feel safe, to be accepted and welcomed, to access public spaces and social services and to encounter those the same -- and those different -- from ourselves.

This studio will apply these approaches to the Victoria Street precinct in Abbotsford/North Richmond and explore questions of sociability of space, spatial and social justice, diversity, inclusion/exclusion and displacement in this dynamic inner city location. You will actively engage with partners involved in the ‘Restorative Yarra’ research project (the City of Yarra and the Neighbourhood Justice Centre, along with associated agencies and service providers in the area) in addressing policy and process barriers and opportunities in realising a more socially and spatially just, livable and vibrant precinct for all precinct residents, businesses and visitors. Addressing the ‘wicked’ social problems of the area -- including growing socio-economic inequity, [perceptions of] safety, amenity, facilities/services and forms of engagement suitable for diverse populations -- will all factor strongly in this studio.

Learning Outcomes:

In addition to the generic learning skills embedded in all studios (e.g. sharpening critical thinking and analytical skills, expanding research capacity, working effectively in teams, etc.), the earning outcomes of this studio will focus on:

  • Identifying, assessing and engaging critically with a range of socio-spatial issues related to the Victoria Street precinct;
  • Identifying and proposing creative solutions to the complex social planning issues observed;
  • Identifying and responding to ethical challenges related to social and spatial justice, both as related to the site and as relevant to social planning more broadly;
  • Understanding the relationships between planning and society, culture, environment, space and politics.

Studio Leaders

Dr Andrea Cook

ST1/02 Tuesday 5:15pm - 8:15pm, MSD Room 227
ST2/02 Friday 2:15pm - 5:15pm, MSD Room 142

Contact Handbook

Need enrolment assistance?

Stop 1 provides enrolment and other support to Bachelor of Design, Bachelor of Environments and Melbourne School of Design students.