Charlotte finds holistic approach with urban design
Charlotte Miller moved from Brisbane to study her undergraduate degree with the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, and is now in her final year of the Master of Urban Design. We caught up with Charlotte to hear about her experiences.
What attracted you to the Master of Urban Design?
After completing my undergraduate degree majoring in architecture, I knew I was interested in a career in design, but wanted something with a more holistic and community-based approach.
My bachelor degree gives me an understanding of design at a micro scale, while the graduate course has taught me how to look at design problems from a macro level.
Is there a particular subject you’ve enjoyed?
Two subjects really stand out for me. Urban Design Theory gives students an expansive history on the teachings of urban design, and encourages putting these theories into practice. Urban Informatics is an intensive course focusing on data comprehension and analysis, and gives students the opportunity to delve into research topics that interest them.
What are the most valuable skills you have learned?
The most valuable thing I have learned is how to process information and data in a way that is clear and precise, and valid to the design process.
What are you hoping to do when you have finished your studies?
I hope to research social topics I am passionate about, in order to create new and lively urban spaces, catered to the community they are situated in.
Do you have any advice for students thinking of studying at MSD?
Visit any of the exhibitions or events that MSD has to offer. If you want to be able to create products like those displayed there, and are willing to work for it, this is the place for you.
What would you like people to know about urban design?
Urban design is an intricate synthesis of theoretical learning and real-life practicability, allowing you to understand the reasoning behind how everyday society works, and hopefully giving you the tools to improve it.