Towards universal classification of built-up types: the Lithuanian case

Abstract

Built-up typologies are one of the main research topics of urban morphology and classification of urban tissues is one of the major research problems. However, this is not only a scientific but a practical problem as well. In pursuit to eliminate various “wounds” of the physical and functional fabric of cities left by modernist planning practices, lately the shift towards a form-based coding within urban development regulations is noticeable. Traditionally, the main source of knowledge about built-up types has been the study of site-specific historical artifacts, their interactions, and the extent of transformation. The findings of such studies are directly applicable in townscape management processes and urban conservation projects. Although there have been attempts to characterize the constantly evolving fabric of contemporary cities using traditional approach and investigative techniques, the success of these efforts is limited. Firstly, the differences in local conditions lead to the diversity of the built forms, but a particular urban site seldom possesses a complete set of built-up types. Secondly, research outcomes are often influenced by the research goal, making it difficult to compare ant apply the results of different studies. These challenges highlight the growing need for a universal classification of built-up types. The presented research is based on the current urban development and planning regulatory trends in Lithuania, which is characterized by still dominant land-use zoning and fragmented initiatives to guide the production of more defined urban form. A conceptual framework developed by the authors is used to map and compare the general and specific cases of built-up typologies implemented within the national regulatory system. Based on the identified peculiarities an innovative approach (procedural modelling) is applied to test the possibility to derive a universal classification of built-up types that would meet current and future challenges of urban development in Lithuania.