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Understanding the Street Layout of Melbourne’s Chinatown as an Urban Heritage Precinct in a Grid System Using Space Syntax Methods and Field Observation

Author

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  • Shiran Geng

    (College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia
    Institute of Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia)

  • Hing-Wah Chau

    (College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia
    Institute of Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia)

  • Elmira Jamei

    (College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia
    Institute of Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia)

  • Zora Vrcelj

    (College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia
    Institute of Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia)

Abstract

Melbourne’s Chinatown is the oldest in Australia. A large amount of research on this unique ethnic enclave has been conducted to elucidate its formation history, heritage significance, cultural influence and architectural features. However, the discussion of the precinct’s spatial characteristics remains mostly marginalised. As a heritage precinct in the centre of an urban grid form, the precinct offers a unique spatial experience to its visitors. To better fathom the street layout of the area, three objectives are addressed in this study, including understanding: (1) the precinct’s street network in the grid system, (2) the visibility relationship within the precinct and (3) the relationship between buildings and streets. A joint methodology framework is established to fulfil the research objectives by incorporating space syntax methods and field observation. The findings facilitate policymakers and planners in understanding the precinct’s unique street layout and making relevant preservation decisions. Further studies are encouraged to scrutinise other spatial and urban characteristics of the precinct and test the proposed methodology.

Suggested Citation

  • Shiran Geng & Hing-Wah Chau & Elmira Jamei & Zora Vrcelj, 2022. "Understanding the Street Layout of Melbourne’s Chinatown as an Urban Heritage Precinct in a Grid System Using Space Syntax Methods and Field Observation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(19), pages 1-24, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:19:p:12701-:d:934579
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kayvan Karimi, 2018. "Space syntax: consolidation and transformation of an urban research field," Journal of Urban Design, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 23(1), pages 1-4, January.
    2. Elek Pafka & Kim Dovey & Gideon DPA Aschwanden, 2020. "Limits of space syntax for urban design: Axiality, scale and sinuosity," Environment and Planning B, , vol. 47(3), pages 508-522, March.
    3. Shilpi Tewari & David Beynon, 2018. "Changing neighbourhood character in Melbourne: point Cook a case study," Journal of Urban Design, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 23(3), pages 456-464, May.
    4. Kim Dovey & Simon Wollan & Ian Woodcock, 2012. "Placing Graffiti: Creating and Contesting Character in Inner-city Melbourne," Journal of Urban Design, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 17(1), pages 21-41.
    5. Claudia Yamu & Akkelies van Nes & Chiara Garau, 2021. "Bill Hillier’s Legacy: Space Syntax—A Synopsis of Basic Concepts, Measures, and Empirical Application," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(6), pages 1-25, March.
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    Cited by:

    1. Longlong Zhang & Jingwen Yuan & Chulsoo Kim, 2022. "Sustainable Planning and Design of Ocean City Spatial Forms Based on Space Syntax," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(24), pages 1-20, December.

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