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Identity by spatial design: Topos, a principle derived from historic and vernacular cultures

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Abstract

The aim of this paper is to advocate the adoption of categorising public open space by introducing one such category, termed Topos. This category dealing with place-bound identity, creating collective memory and a sense of belonging to, was chosen because it turned out to be very robust, that is, it was found in almost all investigated cultures around the world. Building on historic examples as well as vernacular settlements, this paper investigates the role of Topos and its design components. Characteristic elements that emerged during the broader research will be highlighted, as well as how they can ameliorate contemporary urban design.

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Notes

  1. This term has been agreed upon with a native Greek-speaking linguist and a native Greek town planner and urban designer.

  2. The examples were chosen from a larger set that were observed and analysed in a broader study (Bornberg, 2003).

  3. Artefacts, ritual stones or other ceremonial structures are not common in nomadic cultures, since this would be extra burden and would make them inflexible when moving on.

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  1. Institut für Entwerfen und Städtebau, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Herrenhäuser Straße 8, Hanover, 30419, Germany

    Renate Bornberg

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  1. Renate Bornberg
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Correspondence to Renate Bornberg.

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Bornberg, R. Identity by spatial design: Topos, a principle derived from historic and vernacular cultures. Urban Des Int 13, 182–200 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1057/udi.2008.25

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