Landscape Urbanism Project
Urban Canal Regeneration: A Comparative Study
The Project
This individual research project examined the transformation of urban canal spaces into active public environments. I focused on how these historic waterways are being repurposed to support modern public life, moving from industrial backdrops to essential social infrastructure.
The study centered on three major case studies: Regent’s Canal (London), the Birmingham Canal Network, and Amsterdam’s Canal System. I explored how specific design interventions influence accessibility, social interaction, and everyday recreational use.
The Strategy
Comparative Analysis: I evaluated different international approaches to waterway management, comparing London’s high-density regeneration with Amsterdam’s heritage-led integration.
Public Realm Evaluation: I analysed how "soft" interventions (lighting, seating, surfacing) and "hard" interventions (mooring, bridges) dictate how people move through and stay in canal spaces.
User-Centric Focus: I examined the shift in canal use from industrial transport to recreational "blue-green" arteries for local communities.
Key Skills Developed
Evidence-Based Research: I developed a high-level ability to collect and analyse qualitative data across multiple international sites to inform design decisions.
Comparative Methodology: I learned how to identify successful urban precedents and "translate" them into different geographical and social contexts.
Critical Site Analysis: I moved beyond visual aesthetics to understand the socio-economic and technical layers of public realm performance.
Strategic Synthesis: I gained the ability to turn complex research findings into a clear design brief—which I directly applied to my LG1: Fish Island Masterplan.
The research involved comparative analysis of international case studies, spatial mapping, and observation of public behaviour within canal environments. The findings highlighted the importance of well-designed waterfront spaces in improving urban quality, supporting active lifestyles, and enhancing city identity. This project strengthened my skills in urban analysis, research methods, and critical evaluation of public space design.