Reflective Summary: Reflecting on My Urban Design Blog-Making Journey

Figure 1. An interpretation of my journey (Picture by Kumara Swamy)

Learning and Growing

Learning about urban design was like discovering a whole new world hidden in plain sight. It was about understanding the architecture of cities and the reasons behind their appearance. Think of it like a large puzzle with a story for every piece. This was my very first experience at writing a blog, and overall, the assignment has helped me learn new techniques in writing for various audiences, how to collaborate with others, and how to construct websites effectively. The blog was also a useful way to reflect on lecture content, it encouraged me to think more deeply about the subject and to apply my learning to wider contexts and places.

What did I gain from this urban expedition through blog-making? Oh, a lot I must say. My understanding of urban design blossomed, diving into the intricate details that shape our cities. The journey was more than about learning facts, it was about personal development. It gave me a new perspective, made me appreciate the streets and structures around me, and made me realise how interconnected everything is. I started to wonder how cities developed and why their layouts are the way they are. Throughout my academic career, this subject has provided me with direction on urban issues, particularly as I work towards my master’s degree in architecture. It is a huge advantage to me when I’m brainstorming and designing.

Creating the Blog     

Sharing what I learned was exciting! The blog has the feel of a lively book filled with urban tales. Every post explained a new aspect of urban design, just like a chapter would. I wanted other people to love reading about urban design as much as I did, which is why I thought it was crucial to make the site appear attractive and inviting. Reaching out to more people who are interested in urban design is something I’m really looking forward to accomplishing with this method. Working in a group was enjoyable but also a little challenging at times. We had a lot of interesting discussions because everyone had something to say. However, there were instances when we had to figure out how to combine all of these ideas. It improved my ability to communicate my ideas and listen to others.

Facing Challenges and Looking Ahead

Personally, some parts of urban design were complicated to understand especially for me regarding economic vitality in urban design. It’s difficult to comprehend city planning in its entirety and ensure that it benefits everyone. However, overcoming these obstacles broadened my knowledge and made me even more curious about how cities work. I’m eager for what lies ahead. I’m interested in learning more about how urban design influences people’s lives in cities and how it may promote sustainability and inclusivity in local communities.

In essence, this urban design blog-making journey wasn’t just about learning theories and principles, it was about embracing a new perspective and using it as a catalyst for exploration and creativity. It also ignited my passion for urban design. As I continue this path, my goal is to make a significant contribution to the field of urban design by telling stories that inspire, deepen our understanding of the cities we live in, and perhaps even improve the quality of life in cities for everybody.